Best Stainless Steel Trash Cans That Resist Smudges in 2026
The best stainless steel trash can for most homes is the EKO Hudson 75 Liter Step Trash Can, thanks to its huge 20-gallon capacity and a foot pedal rated for over 200,000 presses. We researched and compared 10 stainless steel models, from budget 13-gallon step cans to odor-blocking 20-gallon giants, to find the right fit for every kitchen.
Capacity, lid mechanics, and fingerprint resistance separate a great can from a frustrating one. This guide breaks down exactly which model wins for small kitchens, big families, and tight budgets so you can buy once and stop thinking about your trash.
Quick answer: The EKO Hudson 75 Liter Step Trash Can wins overall because it pairs a massive 20-gallon capacity with a fingerprint-resistant finish, a pedal rated for 200,000+ presses, and a rear compartment that stores spare bags out of sight. If you want the best value, the Amazon Basics 13.2 Gallon Trash Can delivers a soft-close lid and removable inner bucket at a budget-friendly price.
Which Stainless Steel Step Trash Can Fits Your Kitchen
Match the can to your space and household size first, then compare lid mechanics and finish. The table below sorts all 10 picks from strongest to weakest on overall value.
| Trash Can | Capacity | Lid Type | Standout Feature | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 EKO Hudson 75 Liter Step Trash Can |
75 L / 20 gal | Step, soft close | Rear bag storage compartment | Large families |
 Glad 20 Gal Trash Can |
20 gal | Step or lift-top | Clorox odor protection | Odor control |
 Amazon Basics 13.2 Gallon Trash Can |
50 L / 13.2 gal | Step, soft close | Smudge-resistant exterior | Best value |
 SONGMICS 13 Gallon Step Trash Can |
50 L / 13 gal | Step, soft close | Stay-open lid option | Small kitchens |
 EKO Madison 13.2 Gal Step Trash Can |
50 L / 13.2 gal | Step, soft close | Fingerprint-resistant finish | Trash or recycling |
 Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can |
13 gal | Step, soft close | Rear bag compartment | Odor control |
 EKO Madison 50 Liter Step Trash Can |
50 L / 13.2 gal | Step, soft close | Matte metallic finish | Modern kitchens |
 Glad 20 Gal Black Trash Can |
20 gal | Step, soft close | Odor-blocking lid frame | Big households |
 SONGMICS 20 Gallon Step Trash Can |
75 L / 20 gal | Step, soft close | Rear handle for moving | Large spaces |
 PayLessHere 13G Trash Can |
13 gal | Step, tight-fitting | Removable inner bucket | Budget pick |
Stainless Steel Trash Cans Ranked for Every Kitchen Size
Every pick below earned its spot based on capacity, build quality, lid mechanics, and real Amazon customer ratings. We start with the overall winner and work down to the best budget option.
1. EKO Hudson 75 Liter Step Trash Can – Best for Large Families
The EKO Hudson takes the top spot because it solves the biggest kitchen trash problem: constantly changing bags. Its 75 liter capacity holds mountains of waste, and the rear compartment keeps spare bags within reach.
Overview
This is a genuinely heavy-duty can built for busy households. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel body stays clean-looking, and the foot pedal is rated for over 200,000 presses. A bi-force damper soft open and close lid prevents the slamming that plagues cheaper cans.
Key Specs
- Capacity: 75 L / 20 gallon
- Material: Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel
- Lid: Step pedal with bi-force soft open and close damper
- Pedal rating: Over 200,000 presses
- Extra: Rear trash bag storage compartment
- Amazon rating: 4.7 out of 5 from 1,260 ratings
Performance
The rear bag compartment is the feature you will appreciate most after a week of use. You never have to walk to a drawer mid-task, and the 20-gallon size means fewer trips to the outdoor bin. The fingerprint-resistant finish wipes down with a single pass of a damp cloth.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Huge 20-gallon capacity cuts bag changes | Takes up significant floor space |
| Pedal rated for 200,000+ presses | Premium price for the category |
| Rear compartment stores spare bags | Heavy to move when full |
| Fingerprint-resistant finish stays clean | Overkill for small kitchens |
2. Glad 20 Gal Trash Can – Best for Odor Control
The Glad 20 Gal Trash Can is the pick for anyone who hates kitchen smells. Its lid is formulated with Clorox Protection to block unwanted odors, and the 20-gallon size holds 50% more than a standard can.
Overview
This is a flexible can with two opening methods: step on the wide foot pedal for hands-free use, or lift the top by hand when stepping is a challenge. Bag rings tuck away slack and keep the liner from falling in. The soft-close lid keeps things quiet.
Key Specs
- Capacity: 20 gallon
- Material: Brushed stainless steel
- Lid: Step pedal or lift-top, soft close
- Odor control: Clorox Protection in the lid
- Extra: Bag rings and stay-open lid option
- Amazon rating: 4.7 out of 5 from 18,389 ratings
Performance
The dual opening system is a genuine convenience, especially for anyone with mobility limits. The stay-open lid helps during long cooking sessions when you are scraping plates and tossing scraps. The bag rings are a small detail that makes a big daily difference.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Clorox odor protection blocks smells | 20-gallon size needs floor space |
| Two ways to open: pedal or lift-top | Heavier than 13-gallon models |
| Bag rings prevent liner fall-through | Lift-top lid adds a moving part |
| Stay-open lid for cooking tasks | Large footprint in tight kitchens |
3. Amazon Basics 13.2 Gallon Trash Can – Best Value
The Amazon Basics 13.2 Gallon Trash Can is the smartest buy for most kitchens. It delivers soft-close lid mechanics and a removable inner bucket at a budget-friendly price, backed by nearly 48,000 Amazon ratings.
Overview
This rectangular can fits neatly against a wall or cabinet. The smudge-resistant stainless steel exterior hides fingerprints, and the heavy-duty plastic inner bucket makes bag swaps simple. A stay-open lid and carry handle round out the practical design.
Key Specs
- Capacity: 50 L / 13.2 gallon
- Material: Stainless steel, smudge-resistant
- Lid: Manual foot lever, soft close
- Inner bucket: Heavy-duty plastic, removable
- Extra: Stay-open lid and carry handle
- Dimensions: 14.8 x 16.7 x 25.9 inches
- Amazon rating: 4.4 out of 5 from 47,848 ratings
Performance
The soft-close lid is the standout at this price point. It opens with a light press and closes without a bang, which matters in open-plan kitchens. The rectangular shape uses corner space efficiently, so it tucks away better than round cans.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Soft-close lid at a budget price | Plastic inner bucket feels less premium |
| Removable bucket with carry handle | 13.2 gallons fills fast in big families |
| Smudge-resistant exterior | Rectangular shape limits placement spots |
| Nearly 48,000 Amazon ratings | No bag storage compartment |
4. SONGMICS 13 Gallon Step Trash Can – Best for Small Kitchens
The SONGMICS 13 Gallon Step Trash Can is sized for apartments and tight galley kitchens. Its sleek profile fits in narrow gaps, and the stainless steel body resists rust and wipes clean with one pass.
Overview
This can focuses on the basics done well. The lid closes slowly and silently, and you can fully open it with one hand for tasks like cleaning out the fridge. A bag hole on the back of the inner bucket secures the liner and hides the edge from view.
Key Specs
- Capacity: 50 L / 13 gallon
- Material: Stainless steel, rust-resistant
- Lid: Step pedal, soft close
- Inner bucket: Removable with bag hole
- Extra: One-hand stay-open lid
- Amazon rating: 4.5 out of 5 from 4,554 ratings
Performance
The soft closure is genuinely quiet, so it will not clang during late-night kitchen trips. The bag hole keeps the liner edge tucked and hidden, which makes the can look neat even when full. It is a solid everyday choice for smaller homes.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact footprint for small spaces | 13 gallons fills quickly |
| Silent soft-close lid | No odor-blocking treatment |
| Bag hole hides liner edge | No bag storage compartment |
| Rust-resistant stainless steel | Basic feature set for the price |
5. EKO Madison 13.2 Gal Step Trash Can – Best Trash or Recycling Bin
The EKO Madison 13.2 Gal Step Trash Can works as a trash can or a dedicated recycling bin. Its fingerprint-resistant brushed finish and 200,000-press pedal make it a durable daily driver.
Overview
This single-compartment design handles cans, bottles, paper, and everyday recyclables just as well as kitchen waste. The raised inner bucket with handles makes bag replacement quick. A bi-force damper keeps the lid from slamming.
Key Specs
- Capacity: 50 L / 13.2 gallon
- Material: Brushed stainless steel, fingerprint-resistant
- Lid: Step pedal with bi-force soft open and close
- Pedal rating: Over 200,000 presses
- Inner bucket: Elevated with handles
- Extra: Lid lock for stay-open use
- Amazon rating: 4.5 out of 5 from 3,990 ratings
Performance
The lid lock keeps the can open as long as you need, which is handy when sorting recycling. The elevated inner bucket with handles makes bag swaps noticeably faster than cans where you dig the liner out. The fingerprint-resistant finish stays sharp-looking.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Works as trash can or recycling bin | 13.2 gallons is small for big families |
| Pedal rated for 200,000+ presses | No odor-blocking treatment |
| Elevated inner bucket with handles | No bag storage compartment |
| Fingerprint-resistant finish | Single compartment only |
6. Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can – Best Compact Odor Control
The Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can brings Clorox odor protection to a smaller footprint. It is the right pick if you want odor control but do not have room for a 20-gallon can.
Overview
The lid and lid frame use antimicrobial protection to inhibit odor-causing bacteria for the life of the can. A rear bag compartment stores spare liners, and bag rings keep the liner in place. The soft-close lid keeps operation quiet.
Key Specs
- Capacity: 13 gallon
- Material: Stainless steel, fingerprint-resistant
- Lid: Step pedal, soft close
- Odor control: Clorox antimicrobial protection
- Extra: Rear bag compartment and bag rings
- Amazon rating: 4.6 out of 5 from 5,140 ratings
Performance
The rear bag compartment is a feature you will use every single week. The antimicrobial lid treatment helps with everyday food waste odors. For a 13-gallon can, the feature set is unusually complete.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Clorox antimicrobial odor protection | 13 gallons fills fast in big homes |
| Rear bag compartment stores liners | Smaller than 20-gallon alternatives |
| Bag rings prevent fall-through | No dual opening option |
| Fingerprint-resistant finish | Limited capacity for meal prep days |
7. EKO Madison 50 Liter Step Trash Can – Best Matte Finish
The EKO Madison 50 Liter Step Trash Can swaps brushed steel for a matte metallic look. It shares the same 200,000-press pedal and fingerprint-resistant build as its brushed sibling.
Overview
This can suits modern kitchens with matte fixtures. It works as a trash can, office waste bin, or recycling bin. The lid lock holds it open, and the raised inner bucket with handles speeds up bag changes.
Key Specs
- Capacity: 50 L / 13.2 gallon
- Material: Matte metallic stainless steel, fingerprint-resistant
- Lid: Step pedal with bi-force soft open and close
- Pedal rating: Over 200,000 presses
- Inner bucket: Elevated with handles
- Extra: Lid lock for stay-open use
- Amazon rating: 4.5 out of 5 from 3,990 ratings
Performance
The matte finish hides smudges even better than brushed steel, which is a real plus in a busy kitchen. The soft open and close lid keeps noise low. It is the same reliable mechanism as the brushed version, just with a different look.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Matte finish hides smudges well | 13.2 gallons is small for large families |
| Pedal rated for 200,000+ presses | No odor-blocking treatment |
| Elevated inner bucket with handles | No bag storage compartment |
| Lid lock for stay-open use | Matte look may not suit all kitchens |
8. Glad 20 Gal Black Trash Can – Best for Big Households
The Glad 20 Gal Black Trash Can pairs a 20-gallon capacity with Clorox odor protection. It is built for large households that generate a lot of waste and want smells kept in check.
Overview
The lid and lid frame block unwanted odors for the life of the can. A rear compartment stores extra bags and dispenses them from the sides without moving the can. Bag rings tuck slack neatly and keep the liner secure.
Key Specs
- Capacity: 20 gallon
- Material: Brushed stainless steel, fingerprint-resistant
- Lid: Step pedal, controlled quiet close
- Odor control: Clorox odor protection in lid and frame
- Extra: Rear bag compartment and bag rings
- Amazon rating: 4.7 out of 5 from 18,389 ratings
Performance
The odor-blocking lid frame is the headline feature, and it earns its place in a busy kitchen. The rear bag storage means you never hunt for a liner. It is a practical, no-fuss can for families that fill a bin fast.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 20-gallon capacity for big households | Large footprint needs floor space |
| Odor-blocking lid and frame | Heavier to empty when full |
| Rear bag compartment dispenses from sides | No dual opening option |
| Fingerprint-resistant finish | Overkill for one or two people |
9. SONGMICS 20 Gallon Step Trash Can – Best for Large Spaces
The SONGMICS 20 Gallon Step Trash Can brings the brand’s quiet mechanics to a bigger 75 liter body. It suits large kitchens, laundry rooms, and open utility spaces.
Overview
The sleek modern design fits a range of rooms, and the stainless steel resists rust. The lid closes slowly and silently to reduce noise. A rear handle makes the can easy to move around the kitchen when you need to reposition it.
Key Specs
- Capacity: 75 L / 20 gallon
- Material: Stainless steel, rust-resistant
- Lid: Step pedal, soft close
- Inner bucket: Removable with bag hole
- Extra: Rear handle for easy movement
- Amazon rating: 4.5 out of 5 from 4,554 ratings
Performance
The rear handle is a smart touch on a can this size, since 20-gallon bins get heavy. The bag hole keeps liners secure and hidden. The soft close keeps the kitchen quiet even with frequent use.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 20-gallon capacity for large spaces | No odor-blocking treatment |
| Rear handle aids movement | No bag storage compartment |
| Silent soft-close lid | Big footprint in small kitchens |
| Rust-resistant stainless steel | Basic feature set for the size |
10. PayLessHere 13G Trash Can – Best Budget Pick
The PayLessHere 13G Trash Can is the lowest-cost way to get a stainless steel step can with a removable inner bucket. It covers the essentials without extras.
Overview
The 13-gallon capacity fits standard supermarket bags, so you never need special liners. The foot pedal keeps your hands clean, and the tight-fitting lid reduces odors. The stainless steel body is watertight, scratch-resistant, and easy to wipe down.
Key Specs
- Capacity: 13 gallon
- Material: Stainless steel, scratch-resistant
- Lid: Step pedal, tight-fitting
- Inner bucket: Removable
- Extra: Fits standard 13-gallon bags
- Amazon rating: 4.5 out of 5 from 1,387 ratings
Performance
The tight-fitting lid does a decent job of trapping everyday odors. The removable inner bucket makes bag changes simple. It lacks the soft-close damper and fingerprint coating of pricier picks, but it covers the basics at the lowest cost.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lowest price on this list | No soft-close lid damper |
| Fits standard 13-gallon bags | No fingerprint-resistant coating |
| Removable inner bucket | No bag storage compartment |
| Scratch-resistant stainless steel | Fewer features than rivals |
What to Check Before You Buy a Stainless Steel Trash Can
These eight checks separate a can you love from one you regret. Run through them before you commit, because a trash can is a five-year purchase.
Match Capacity to Your Household Size
One or two people do fine with a 13-gallon can. Families of four or more should consider 20 gallons, since a bigger bin means fewer trips outside. If you are weighing a cheaper option, our roundup of kitchen trash cans under $100 covers more budget-friendly models.
Prioritize Soft-Close Lid Mechanics
A soft-close damper prevents the loud clang that scares pets and wakes kids. Nearly every step can here uses one. Only the PayLessHere 13G Trash Can skips the damper, which is the main reason it costs less.
Look for Fingerprint-Resistant Finishes
Plain brushed steel shows every touch. Fingerprint-resistant coatings on the EKO Hudson, EKO Madison, and Glad cans hide smudges far better. If you hate wiping down appliances, this feature is worth the upgrade.
Check the Pedal Build Quality
Cheap pedals snap within a year or two. Look for a stated press rating, like the 200,000-press pedals on the EKO models. That number tells you the mechanism was built for years of daily use.
Decide If You Need Bag Storage
A rear bag compartment means you never hunt for a liner mid-task. The EKO Hudson, Glad 20 Gal, and Glad 13 Gallon all include one. It is a small feature that saves real time every week.
Consider Odor Control Features
If kitchen smells bother you, prioritize Clorox odor protection. The Glad 20 Gal Trash Can and Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can both treat the lid and frame to block odors. Other models rely only on a tight-fitting lid.
Measure Your Space Before Ordering
A 20-gallon can takes up serious floor space. Check the dimensions against your cabinet gap or corner before buying. Round cans fit open spaces, while rectangular cans like the Amazon Basics tuck against walls better.
Think About Bag Compatibility
Standard 13-gallon bags fit most mid-size cans, including the PayLessHere 13G Trash Can. The 20-gallon models need larger liners, so factor that into your running costs. A removable inner bucket makes any size easier to line.
Common Questions About Stainless Steel Trash Cans
These are the questions shoppers ask most before buying a stainless steel can. Each answer gives you the short version first.
What Is the Best Stainless Steel Trash Can Overall?
The EKO Hudson 75 Liter Step Trash Can is the best overall pick. It combines a 20-gallon capacity, a fingerprint-resistant body, a pedal rated for over 200,000 presses, and a rear compartment for spare bags. That mix of size, durability, and smart storage is hard to beat.
Do Stainless Steel Trash Cans Really Resist Fingerprints?
Yes, many do. Models like the EKO Hudson, EKO Madison, and Glad cans use a fingerprint-resistant coating that hides smudges far better than plain brushed steel. A quick wipe with a damp cloth keeps them looking clean.
What Size Stainless Steel Trash Can Should I Buy for a Family of Four?
A 13 to 13.2 gallon can works well for most families of four. If you cook often or hate changing bags, step up to a 20-gallon model like the Glad 20 Gal Trash Can or EKO Hudson. Both cut down on trips to the outdoor bin.
Are Step Trash Cans With Soft-Close Lids Worth It?
Yes. A soft-close lid prevents the loud clang that scares pets and wakes sleeping kids. Nearly every step can on this list, from the Amazon Basics 13.2 Gallon Trash Can to the EKO Madison, uses a damper for quiet closing.
How Do I Stop Trash Bags From Falling Into the Can?
Look for a bag ring or an inner bucket with a bag hole. The Glad cans use bag rings to tuck slack, while the SONGMICS and EKO models have a hole in the inner bucket that holds the liner edge and hides it from view.
Is a Stainless Steel Trash Can Better Than Plastic?
Stainless steel resists rust, odors, and bacteria better than plastic, and it wipes clean with a damp cloth. It also looks sharper in a kitchen. Plastic costs less, but steel lasts longer and hides smells more effectively. If you need a can that slides into a cabinet, our guide to under-sink trash can picks covers that layout.
Why the EKO Hudson Wins for Most Kitchens
The EKO Hudson 75 Liter Step Trash Can is our top pick for the best stainless steel trash can because it nails capacity, durability, and convenience at once. Its 20-gallon body cuts bag changes, and the 200,000-press pedal and fingerprint-resistant finish mean it will look and work great for years.
If you need a budget can, get the Amazon Basics 13.2 Gallon Trash Can. If odor control matters most, get the Glad 20 Gal Trash Can. For small kitchens, get the SONGMICS 13 Gallon Step Trash Can, and for the lowest price, get the PayLessHere 13G Trash Can. Pick the one that fits your space, then hit the Check Price on Amazon button to grab it today.
