Chic Garbage Bins? These Stainless Steel Trash Cans Prove It’s Possible

We’ll go ahead and say it: Trash cans don’t have to be trashy! While these humble vessels are often the last item on the home design checklist, they’re definitely the unsung heroes of any space. When they come with polished details and utilitarian updates, in particular, stainless steel trash cans can make your life much easier and can visually pull together any room they’re placed in.

Stainless steel trash cans are also workhorses, sealing in rotting messes, liquids, and other household detritus that no one wants to see or smell, all the while providing a sleek, décor-friendly look. Typically popular in kitchens and bathrooms due to their convenient, sanitary approach, many steel garbage bins now offer features that not only make our lives easier (step-pedal designs, smudge-resistant finishes, etc.) and ensure easy, seamless trash disposal.

The Best Stainless Steel Trash Cans

What to Consider

There’s a lot to keep in mind when it comes to buying the ideal stainless steel trash can for you and your home. Consider the following before settling on your chosen can, and we think you’ll be a satisfied customer:

• Size: Consider the space you want to put the trash can in and how much of a footprint you want the can to take up. Keep height in mind, too, especially if you plan to put it next to a countertop or under any fixtures.

• Shape: Trash cans generally come in rectangular or round shapes. If you’re going to wedge the can into a corner of a small kitchen, you’ll probably want a rectangular one. But if you plan to stick it under your desk or put it in a guest bedroom or bathroom, a round bin may be a better or more aesthetically pleasing fit.

• Opening: Many trash cans open with a step pedal, but some have open tops, others have swing tops, and even some open with a wave of your hand.

• Extras: There are several models that now include tech and/or accessibility features, such as gesture activation, odor elimination, and fingerprint-proofing. Many also come in different colors, all of which cater to user preference.

We rounded up the best stainless steel trash cans on the market, keeping a range of needs, design styles, and budgets in mind. We’re betting you’ll find at least one you want to bring home with you.