Best 13 Gallon Trash Cans: Clean and Odorless Kitchen

People think that the kitchen is the room only for preparing meals. However, this should also be the spot where all family members gather. As such, it is needless to say that everyone should always hold their kitchens all tidy so that they can enjoy more moments together.

Although we rarely worry about them, as they are silent items, 13 gallon trash cans carry one of the essential tasks to keep our cooking space clean. They are storing garbage. Selecting the best ones might seem a piece of cake; however, certain features must be considered.

Trash cans reflect the quality of life you want for you and your family. Therefore, we carefully selected the top ones. Not only will they enhance your kitchen’s aesthetics, but these items will keep the hygiene standards at their best.

Keep scrolling down to learn more about the best 13 gallon trash cans, how to select them, as well as some tips about maintenance and safety.

Models of Kitchen Trash Cans

How do you choose the best trash cans? Well, firstly, you check the way you will access it. Expect to find very few cans with lids but a wide range of different opening mechanisms.

If you have some trouble in deciding which one is the best for you, here is our rundown of the most relevant styles of 13 gallon trash cans:

Step Trash Cans

You can open these models by only pressing a foot pedal. These models are convenient, so you will generally meet them in most households. The step trash cans have great-sealed lids so that they will prevent any odors.

Regarding hygiene, they are hands-free, which means more sanitary. If you are passionate about cooking, the foot pedal will be a lifesaver when your hands are dripping with pizza dough.

In-Cabinet Trash Cans

These are perfect if you would like to keep the trash totally hidden. Ideal for small kitchens, in-cabinet trash cans will usually stay under the sink. Some come with a metal mounted to the base to have easy access, and you can fastly pull out the can.

Touch-top Trash Cans

These cans will open as soon as you press a button on or near the lid. The touch-top cans are a smart alternative to foot pedal for people who cannot operate the pedal with their step on. However, since you will use your hands, this model is less sanitary.

Automatic Trash Cans

These cans will open automatically using an infrared sensor. Moreover, the smart ones have voice activation, so you just need to ask for an opening the lid. However, the voice operation can sometimes fail to recommend the classic trash cans.

Trash Cans with Swing-Top, Butterfly, and Fold-in Lids

The last types of 13 gallon trash cans have lids that won’t seal as tightly as other models. They will hardly keep odorous inside, and the tops will tend to get splattered with food once you scrape dishes right into the trash. Moreover, nobody wants their food to get caught in the garbage.

Top 13 Gallon Trash Cans. 2020 Full Reviews

Down below, we selected the best trash cans on the market. Read the full reviews with the main features, downsides, and our experience.

1. Nine Stars 13.2g Open Trash Can

When you are in a permanent rush, you need a trash can that has no lid, so you will be able to throw the trash in seconds. This 13.2 gal stainless steel trash can has a beautiful design made by Nine Stars.

Key Features

• Open Top
• Fingerprint Resistant
• Magnetic Label
• Non-Skid Base
• Removable Ring Liner

Made of stainless steel, this trash can will fit anywhere in the house or office. The package has all the elements you need; as such, it includes a garbage bag ring. This way, the bag will be hidden from public view and will look much more elegant.

The appearance will be cleaner, also due to the fingerprint resistance. As such, you will not see those annoying fingerprints all over the place.

The recycling magnet is another big plus indicating the type of garbage people should throw in this specific trash can.

Reasons to buy

• Two years warranty
• 430- grade stainless steel
• Soft-close technology
• Lightweight

Your Possible dislikes

• The open trash can will not keep the odors away.
• Better to use only for recyclable materials

Keeping the Trash Can All Clean

As you might already know, this Nine Stars trash can is best for storing only dry materials. This feature means less work when cleaning it. However, always ensure that the plastic bottles you throw are dry inside; otherwise, odors will immediately feel in the air.

The best way to keep this trash can all clean is constant care. Change the bags regularly, and even they are not already full. Some warm water will be enough to eliminate all those stains.

Brief Summary

The Nine Stars trash can is easy to use, lightweight, elegant and can suit multiple room design types.

2. Simplehuman 13-Gallon Step Trash Can

If you are tired of all those necessary, unaesthetic trash cans that left all the unpleasant odors to slip away in the home’s air, then have a look at this trash can.

Key Features

• Sturdy Design
• The lid stays open for more seconds.
• Slide Lock for secure lock
• Pet-resistant opening

The very first thing that met our expectations was the elegant design. It is hard not to notice the semi-round step look, which will make the storage part easier. Due to the lovely shape, you can store the trash can in any corner of your house.

Easy Storage

The flat back design will allow easy placement of the trash can against the wall, so the trash will always be out of the way but in a suited space.

Smart Slide Lock

One of this product’s main features is the slide lock, which will securely keep the trash away from pets or curious children. The lid will stay open as long as you like, which makes it ideal for longer chores.

Great for Large Families

The Simplehuman trash has a 13-gallon capacity (50 liters), so it is perfect for large families or busy householders. Moreover, it comes with sample liners included.

Reasons to buy

• 5-years warranty
• Made of good quality plastic
• Large capacity, ideal for big families
• Comes with sample liners (a ten pack)

Your Possible dislikes

• A bit pricey
• Too tall for storing it under the sink

Brief Summary

This 13 gallon model needs easy caring, exactly for a lightweight plastic. With some simple wet wipes, you can clean all the dust or food remains.

We enjoyed the pedal as well, as it works wonderfully and it is sturdy enough to handle multiple uses. The pet lock is another great feature, and the delayed closure allows you to throw various items.

3. Tramontina 13 Gallon Step Trash Can

When you have an elegant home, you want every detail to match the overall design—even the trash can.

Key Features

• Durable stainless steel
• Stain-free material
• Stylish and functional design
• Heavy-duty hinge construction

The Tramontina trash can looks more than pleasant anywhere you wish to store it. It opens and closes smoothly, with a single foot touch. Keep reading to find more about elegantly storing garbage.

Great Capacity

If you are a large family, it means the quantity of trash will be above the average. And we imagine that you don’t want to take out the trash every single day. This model can store 13 gallons of garbage with no issues.

Easy and Hygienic Operation

One of the best things about the Tramontina product is that you need to open it by pressing the foot pedal. This is the best way to activate the trash can, as well as a hygienic way to keep your hands far from the dirt.

Moreover, there will be no issues regarding the pulls out of the trash bag or installation.

Sleek Stainless Steel Material

No matter where you want to place this trash can item, it will fit even the most elegant interior design. The sturdy yet sleek stainless steel satin-finish body is stain and print-free, while the straight lines add more refinement to the final look.

Reasons to buy

• Satin-finish stainless steel
• Easy to maintain and clean
• Removable liner with vented base
• Space-saving shape
• Plastic base to protect the floor
• 13 gal trash storage

Your Possible dislikes

• Need to ask the producer for a warranty

Brief Summary

If you are looking for the perfect trash can shape, the square one will store much more waste and perfectly fit any corner of the house. The trash bags are easy to remove as soon as they are full.

You can choose to set the trash can against the wall and still open it properly. The lid will quickly and smoothly open without making any annoying noises.

4. iTouchless SoftStep Stainless Steel 13 Gallon Step Trash Can

It is safe to say that this item is the smoothest yet most sophisticated step trash you can have at home. The design, along with the easy hands-free action, make this trash can easy to use and store.

Key Features

• Tuck & Hold bag retention
• Lid stay-open mode
• Fingerprint -proof stainless steel
• 13-gallon standard trash bags

Ergonomic foot pedal

One of the best features of the iToouchless trash can is the ergonomically-designed pedal, which requires little effort to operate it. Gentle and silent, the lid will open fast.

Stainless-steel Material

If you hate as much as we do all those fingerprints on the trash cans, don’t worry anymore. Made of quality stainless steel, the elegant body is fingerprint-proof, as well as smudge-resistant.

As such, you can sit it in any room, from the kitchen to the bathroom too. If you need to throw lots of paper daily, this 13 gallon trash can would be perfect in the office.

Odor-Free Feature

Keeping these step trash cans all clean and odor-free is easy due to the odor filters. These unique systems are going to absorb and neutralize all the unpleasant odors in the most natural way. As such, for up to 3 months, you will enjoy a fresh and clean-smelling home.

Easy to replace trash bags

Replacing the trash bags has never been so easy before. The removable inner bucket means you will take out the trash all mess-free. Moreover, the can comes with a unique tuck-and-hold feature, changing the trash can in just seconds.

Reasons to buy

• 11-years warranty
• Removable inner bucket
• No custom bags required
• Easy to replace air-damper

Your Possible dislikes

• Expensive model

Brief Summary

Although more expensive than other models we present today, the manufacturer ensures you can step more than 20 times per day, without facing any problems.

The rubber pads and the non-skid base will keep the trash can stable and steady, no matter how much garbage it is inside.

5. Nine Stars 13.2 Gallon Motion Sensor Stainless Steel Trash Can

Never thought you could open the trash can this easy. This model comes with a particular sensor that identifies moves as soon as you get close to it. This is the easiest yet the cleanest way to throw trash in the kitchen or the office.

Key Features

• 10,000 opening and closing
• Motions Sensor free action
• Warranty guaranteed

Elegant Design

Made of stainless steel, the trash can look all sleek, so you can place it wherever in the house without disturbing the house’s overall pattern. Not touching the lid means no fingerprints or trash remains on the surface of the trash can.

Convenient and Sanitary

The hands-free motion sensor operates correctly, and it is ideal to have in a kitchen, in the garage, or the family rooms. Moreover, they can store a significant amount of garbage, so you don’t have to change the bags too often.

Furthermore, the sensor system is convenient and hygienic. Very convenient, especially if your hands are full.

Reasons to buy

• The lid automatically opens and closes.
• 2 gallon/50 liters trash can
• Hands-free operation
• Ring liner to hold the trash bag
• 10,000 opening and closing before changing batteries

Cons:

• Batteries not included
• Make sure you set the sensor correctly; otherwise, it won’t be pet-proof

Brief Summary

Speaking of innovation, this trash can is a modern, hygienic, and convenient way to throw your leftovers. This elegant model will look perfect in the kitchen, in the garage, or an often-transited area, and will do its job correctly.

However, keep in mind that the motion sensor is a very sensitive one; thus, make sure you select the location from which you want the lid to open. Otherwise, you risk the cover to unlock every time you are in the range of the sensor.

6. iTouchless Deodorizer 13-gallon Touchless Stainless Steel Trash Can

Throwing the wastes has never been so easy. This trash can comes with a smart system that will work properly as soon as you get close to it. The sensor-operated trash can is helpful, especially in areas that are always transited.

Key Features

• Carbon Filter Gate
• Sensor-operated lid
• Extra-wide opening
• Brushed stainless steel material

When Cleanup is a Breeze

Let’s talk about the premium 13 gallon trash can. This iTouchless model is a very stylish and hands-free smart solution for any home. There is nothing more uncomfortable than space, which smells like food wastes.

This trash solution will keep the areas odor-free due to the carbon filter gate (CFG). The can in discussion neutralizes even the worst odors so that you will enjoy your home better.

Smart Sensors

One of the features we enjoyed the most is the sensor-operated lid. Once you are within six inches from the infrared sensor, the cover will open so you can throw the wastes without even touching the surface of the trash can.

Easy Cleaning

Keeping the trash can be a chore, especially when the trash can comes with multiple accessories. It will not happen this time. You can remove the lid quickly, which ensures a more painless cleaning process.

“Invisible” Trash Bags

They are not entirely invisible, but at least you cannot see them from outside. The retainer ring will keep the bags perfectly in place while elegantly covering them.

Reasons to buy

• A smart system that eliminates and neutralizes unpleasant odors
• Easy cleaning
• Large debris storage
• Removable lid cover
• Easy trash bag changing

Cons:

• Only 1-year warranty

Brief Summary

This trash can might be over your budget. However, the smart opening system must look for a hygienic solution to the throne garbage.

Being touchless is incredible, mostly if your hands are full—no smell at all, easy to put batteries, an unqualified recommendation even for the pickiest people.

7. Umbra Brim 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid

With this satin finish, the Umbra trash can provide a comfortable yet functional way to store the waster. Perfectly adapting to the kitchen decor, this item is simple to operate, easy to clean, and occupies just a small house area.

Key Features

• Premium Quality
• Suitable for both residential and commercial use
• Durable materials
• Five years warranty

Sturdy Pedal

Don’t worry about how often you will be opening the lid. The foot pedal is strong enough to resist multiple operations. Furthermore, it comes with an innovative soft-close lid system, so there will be no annoying noises.

Retention Ring and Easy bag Removal

Nobody will budge the trash can due to the retention ring that will hold all together in place. The wide-top is another advantage, as it makes garbage bag removal more accessible than ever before.

Durable Construction

This trash can model is made of polypropylene, sturdy construction that is durable in time and perfect for residential and commercial use. The capacity of 13-gallon (50L) can store a significant amount of waste. The inner bag ring will prevent the bag from slipping away.

Easy Cleaning

Due to the polypropylene construction and the satin finish, this trash can is very easy to clean, only using a damp cloth when needed.

Reasons to buy

• 13-gallon capacity
• Easy to clean polypropylene construction
• Functional and easy to use
• A metal step is sturdy
• Sleek Looking

Your Possible dislikes

• Not a very complex design

Brief Summary

If you are looking for an affordable yet sturdy enough 13 gallon trash can for your kitchen, consider this one. Not only will it suit any decor, but it has some extra features that will make your work easier.

You just step on the foot pedal, and the lid will open. The particular bag ring will hold the bag tight.

8. Simplehuman Slim 13 gallon Step-On Trash Can

If you lack space, then you need to look for space-saving household items. The Simplehuman trash can is unique for its slim shape. However, it can store enough carbage to ease your cleaning works.

Key Features

• Space-saving shape
• Robust body
• Pet-proof lock system

Shape-Efficient Design

The main feature of this trash can is its design. The slim shape will fit perfectly, even the tightest spaces, such as the corners of your rooms.

Strong Steel Pedal

Don’t worry about the multiple uses of the trash can. The pedal is made of strong steel so that it will last longer than other opening systems. The Lid Shox Technology ensures a smooth closing.

Keep away the pets

If you have children and pets, don’t worry. This trash can comes with a slide lock system, so pets and children won’t access the trash can.

Reasons to buy

• Strong steel pedal
• Silent close lid
• Lock the lid shut
• No custom trash bags are needed.

Your Possible dislikes

• No removable bucket available

Brief Summary

This Simplehuman model hasn’t got only a slim design, but it is also made of durable materials so that you can use it for a very long time.

9.  HCB Trash Can 13-gallon Automatic Trash Can

Enjoy one of the smartest touch-free trash cans on the market. The trash can from HCB offers an intelligent experience, using one of the latest high technologies in this domain.

Key Features

• High-tech induction device
• Simple button design
• Large storage space
• Touch-free operation

As soon as it senses a human or an object’s proximity, the lid responds quickly without leaving any odors to escape.

Easy To Use

Although it is a smart household system, it is easy to use even by inexperienced ones. You just need to install the battery, switch to “ON,” and press the OPEN button.

Once doing this, you can start throwing the trash without even touching the trash can’s surface. When you know you will not use the trash can, just press the CLOSE button.

Modern Appearance

The trash can’s body is all stainless steel, so the overall design is technological to suit the most modern and fashionable rooms.

Good Odors Closure

No need to worry about the unpleasant odors anymore. The closing system of this trash can is perfect. It fully isolated even the most peculiar smell so that you can enjoy fresh air in the whole house.

Fast Bag Installing

Once reading about its smartest features, it might seem overwhelming to use this cutting-edge trash can. Let us tell you that the installation part is more accessible than before.

You just take the plastic ring out, put the trash bag through the ring, and then into the trash can. In the end, you just put the lid back.

Reasons to buy

• Adaptable design to any room decor
• Touchless trash can
• Silent opening and closing system
• No fingerprints
• Perfect Closure

Your Possible dislikes

• The package does not come with 4 C-type batteries.

Brief Summary

Some of you might love to be in touch with the latest technology, and even it is about some everyday items like trash cans. This HCB trash can helps you hygienically keep the wastes.

With its waterproof design, this 13-gallon trash can stay near the cooking area, even in the bathroom or the living room. The best part? Its classic and simple design will never be out of fashion.

10.  halo AirStep 13 Gallon Trash Can

One of the main things that make a trash can a winner is its resistance, the ability to keep all the odors inside, and the excellent storage capacity. Considering all these, it’s no wonder why the Halo item is one of our favorites.

Key Features

• Stainless-steel material
• The silent and gentle lid
• Elegant Showpiece for any room

Smooth Experience

The lid of this model provides smooth step trash can experience. Once touching the pedal, it’s like stepping on air. Just a quick touch and the lid will immediately open.

Durability and Resistance

The lid has the exact weight that will provide enough resistance and durability. The pedal needs minimal effort to step on it. Moreover, the cover will close silently and gently, so there will be no noise when throwing some wastes.

Replaceable Air Damper

The replaceable air damper is a great feature, meaning the trash can perform like new even after many years of use. Discover the other premium features you can enjoy once buying the trash can from Halo.

Reasons to buy

• Easy pedal operation
• Large 13-gallon storage capacity
• Space-saving design
• Durable and robust pedal
• Perfect for daily use
• Easy to access rear air damper compartment

Your Possible dislikes

• Might rust without the proper care

Brief Summary

Forget about those hard to operate trash cans. This one is silent, gentle, open with quick foot pressure, and it also looks exquisite.

11.  Kohler 13-Gallon Step Trash Can

Finding the top trash can seemed an impossible mission, isn’t it? Luckily for you, these Kohler models have all the features you might want.

Key Features

• Versatile design
• Hands-free operation
• Generous 13-gallon storage capacity

Versatile Design

This trash can model comes with a slim design, making it perfect for any area in the house.

Smooth Lid

Never worry about the noise the lid used to make. This one has a functional design, which allows the cover of the trash can to open and close quietly. The foot pedal allows hands-free operation with just a simple touch.

Plastic Liner Included

Changing the trash bags is much simpler now. This Kohler trash can comes with a removable plastic liner that allows you to change the plastic bags and secure them properly.

Reasons to buy

• Finger proof finish
• Stays clean for a more extended period
• Locking rim available for easy bag changes
• Lid closes smoothly

Cons:

• Do not use cleaners or abrasives, just a damp microfiber cloth.

Brief Summary

All in all, this trash can from Kohler is a versatile, elegant storage place for your wastes. Cleaning it is very simple, you just need a damp microfiber cloth, and that’s all.

12.  Bigacc 13 Gallon Automatic Stainless Steel Trash Can

Keeping a clean house means taking care to maintain all the surface hygienically. If you want to keep the germs and bacteria away, look for the 13-gallon touch-free automatic trash can. Keep on reading to find all the features you have been looking for:

Key Features

• Induction-on
• One button power off
• No bad odors
• 7 seconds lock

Automatic Lid Opening

Free your hands, as you only need to be within 15 cm of the lid, and the can will open through the infrared sensor. No touch.

Switch ON/OFF Button

Don’t worry about the batteries. As soon as you leave the house for a more extended period, you can turn off the trash can using the switch button.

Perfect Odor Isolation

There is nothing more annoying than all those unpleasant odors in the kitchen. This particular trash can has good airtightness, which means you will not feel any bad smells from now on. The air you breathe daily is now cleaner.

Opening Time

It is up to you how you are going to set the timer. The opening time can last seven seconds. Considering this, you will have the proper time to empty all into the trash can.

Hygienic System

Whoever thought that you can throw the mess without even touching the trash can? This automatic trash can uses the latest infrared technology and will open the trash lid when the system detects any motion.

Large Storage Capacity

If you are a numerous family, you might need this 13-gallon trash can. This remarkable capacity is enough for daily needs, and it will also save you time.

Reasons to buy

• Bright colors
• Generous entrance
• Suitable for any room in the house
• Easy to clean
• Hygienic and hands-free operation
• Silent design

Your Possible dislikes

• Need to purchase the batteries yourself

Brief Summary

Cheer your rooms up with these colorful touch-free trash cans. The modern technology combines perfectly with the joyful decorative effect. The result? A happier place.

13. Halo TapCan 13-gallon Touch-Pedal Trash

The Halo item comes with patented technology. The lid will smoothly open and close with a single tap. Moreover, the advanced pedal technology lets you double-tap the pedal. This system will lead to a timed, five-minute lid open.

Key Features

• Patented technology
• Elegant finger-proof design
• The most effortless trash can

Easy Maintenance

The trash can has an elegant fingerprint-proof stainless steel finish. Make sure you avoid cleaning solutions with alcohol and choose a simple microfiber cloth.

Warranty

The warranty for this smart 13 gallon trash can is for three years. For more details, we recommend contacting the manufacturer.

Reasons to buy

• Advanced pedal technology
• 13-gallon wide capacity
• Designed to meet space efficiency
• Perfect for any room

Your Possible dislikes

• A bit pricey for some budgets

Brief Summary

The model in discussion uses one of the smartest technologies for trash cans. Enjoy the features of this product and a cleaner house than ever.

Plastic or Stainless Steel? What Material to Choose for 13 Gallon Trash Cans?

Two of the most popular materials for trash cans are plastic and stainless steel. No surprise so far, isn’t it? Let’s discover the main differences.

• Plastic trash cans are lightweight, less durable, and also cheaper. However, they will break sooner.
• Trash cans made of stainless steel are more expensive, heavies, but they will last longer. They are also more elegant. However, note that all the kitchen trash might leave stains, very visible on steel.

Cleaning, Deodorizing, and Disinfecting 13 Gallon Trash Cans

Step 1: Remove all the debris

To correctly clean the trash can, you must first remove any trash bag or garbage remains.

Step 2: Clean the stuck items

If there are any stuck leftovers to the side of your trash can, make sure you remove them all. You can wear gloves to make your job easier.

Step 3. Spray everything with water

This step is essential for loosening all that stuck-on debris, and preparing the surfaces for scrubbing. If you want better results, you can use a pressure washer or a hose with a spray.

Step 4: Start Cleaning the Trash Can

Usually, trash cans can be filthy. But there are simple methods to remove all that dirt.  You can put some dish soap as well, or distilled white vinegar to keep away the odors. Using a smooth brush, start scrubbing the trash can, then remove everything with water.

Step 5: Deodorize and Disinfect

To disinfect the bin surfaces, you can use white vinegar. This will not only disinfect everything but also deodorize the bin.

Step 6. Allow everything to Dry

Once you follow all these steps and are happy with the results, allow the bin to dry before adding all the elements and the garbage bag.

Safety Tips When Using A Trash Can

Now, everybody wants to enjoy their kitchen, helping items for a long time. Here are some tips to follow:

• Never dispose of any flammable or explosive substances next to the trash cans.
• Avoid placing the trash cans in high-temperature environments or next to corrosive substances.
• Do not store into the trash cans any hardened construction materials, as these can break or scratch the cans.
• Limit any substantial impact on the body of the trash cans
• Clean the kitchen trash regularly so that you can prevent the risk of bacteria or germs development.

How to Avoid Smells from Trash Cans

How many times have you dealt with foul odors coming from the trash cans? I bet very often. Luckily for you, there are some easy ways to avoid it:

• Never leave trash remains after throwing the garbage.
• To avoid odors and make the cans easier to clean them, rinse all the bottles and recyclable cans dry before throwing them in the trash cans.
• Keep the trash cans in dry, shady areas, where the contents cannot warm up and develop nasty odors.
• If possible, keep the bins outside. However, few people have this possibility.
• At least, start a backyard compost pile or bin, where you can deposit paper, food remains, and other compostable wet matter.
• A great way to remove bad smells is by adding baking soda to the trash can’s bottom. However, if you have metal trash cans, baking soda might harm the materials.
• Drop some essential oil on cotton balls, then place them at the bottom of the trash can
• Place some dry sheets to absorb the bad smells.
• There are also some odor-masking disks you can attach to the inside of the trash cans. These disks are available in lots of grocery stores, just look for them.
• Keep in mind that all those pads and refreshing oils will be mechanically dumped into these garbage trucks. As such, place them depending on the materials you want to recycle

In a Nutshell

Choosing the top 13 gallon trash cans should be an easy process, now that you know the top models on the market.

Upgrade the way you are storing the waste and choose the cleanest trash cans today. Do you have a favorite?