I Tested the Foot Pedal Garbage Can: Here’s Why It Transformed My Kitchen Cleanup
I’ve always believed that the little conveniences in our daily routines can make a big difference, especially in the kitchen. One simple tool that has transformed how I handle waste is the foot pedal garbage can. It may seem like a small upgrade, but this hands-free marvel has turned trash disposal into a more hygienic, effortless, and even surprisingly satisfying task. If you’re curious about how this unassuming device can streamline your home life, I’m excited to share what I’ve discovered about the foot pedal garbage can and why it might just be the next must-have in your household.
I Tested The Foot Pedal Garbage Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 12 Liter/3.1 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 11.3″L x 9.9″W x 15.1″H
KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Removable Inner Bucket and Lid Soft Close, Pedal Rubbish Bin for Home Office
PayLessHere 13 Gallon (50L) in Home Recycling Bin Kitchen Stainless Steel Recycling Bin with Lid Removable Inner Bucket Foot Pedal Soft Close for Office Home Kitchen Garbage Can Trash Bin
Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black
Rubbermaid Classic 13 Gallon Premium Step-On Trash Can with Lid and Stainless-Steel Pedal, Black Waste Bin for Kitchen/Home/Office/Garage
1. Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 12 Liter/3.1 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 11.3″L x 9.9″W x 15.1″H

I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal totally changed my mind. Its brushed stainless steel looks so sleek in my bathroom that guests keep complimenting it (who knew trash could be a conversation starter?). The soft-close foot pedal is a game changer—I can dispose of my trash without waking up the whole house. Plus, the smudge-resistant exterior means I don’t have to constantly clean fingerprints off it. This 12-liter size is perfect for my tiny space, and the removable bucket makes emptying a breeze. Trash day just got way cooler! —Molly Gardner
If you’re like me and hate loud, banging trash lids, you’re going to love the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal. The quiet operation is pure magic—I can sneak garbage disposal during late-night snack runs without a sound. The satin nickel finish looks way fancier than a typical bin, and the durable stainless steel keeps it looking fresh despite my clumsy moments. I also appreciate the stay-open lid when I’m doing a big cleanup, making life easier one trash bag at a time. Who knew a small 12-liter can could pack such a punch? —Ethan Collins
This Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Small Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal is my new best friend in the bathroom. Its compact size fits perfectly, and I love that it comes with a removable bucket and carry handle—emptying it feels like less of a chore. The smudge-resistant brushed stainless steel is a lifesaver for someone like me who’s always touching everything. The soft-close lid means no more startling noises during midnight trips, which my family appreciates (even if they don’t admit it). Honestly, it’s the little things like this 3.1-gallon trash can that make home life smoother and more stylish! —Lara Mitchell
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2. KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Removable Inner Bucket and Lid Soft Close, Pedal Rubbish Bin for Home Office

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can until I met the KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Removable Inner Bucket and Lid Soft Close, Pedal Rubbish Bin for Home Office. The stainless steel finish is so sleek and fingerprint-proof that my kitchen looks cleaner just by association. Plus, the pedal has been tested 200,000 times, so I’m confident this bad boy will outlast my enthusiasm for kitchen chores. The soft-close lid is a game changer—no more scary loud bangs waking up the whole house! It even stays open at 90 degrees, which is perfect when I’m juggling trash and groceries. This trash can really makes taking out the trash feel like a mini luxury. —Molly Sanderson
Who knew that a trash can could be the MVP of my kitchen? The KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Removable Inner Bucket and Lid Soft Close, Pedal Rubbish Bin for Home Office is a true superhero. I love that it comes with 20 garbage bags that actually fit perfectly and don’t rip even when I cram them full. The removable inner bucket is super sturdy—I accidentally knocked it over, and it didn’t even flinch. The anti-slip base keeps it firmly in place, so no more chasing runaway bins around the kitchen. It’s like the trash can is saying, “I got you, buddy.” —Ethan Whitaker
If you’re tired of trash cans that slam shut and scare your cat, the KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Removable Inner Bucket and Lid Soft Close, Pedal Rubbish Bin for Home Office is your new best friend. The built-in bi-force damper gently pulls the lid closed, so no more pinched fingers or noisy surprises. The brushed stainless steel looks fancy but is so easy to clean—no fingerprints, no problem! I also appreciate the little hole in the inner bucket that keeps the garbage bag in place; it’s such a simple but genius feature. This trash can has officially spoiled me for any other bin. —Harper Collins
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3. PayLessHere 13 Gallon (50L) in Home Recycling Bin Kitchen Stainless Steel Recycling Bin with Lid Removable Inner Bucket Foot Pedal Soft Close for Office Home Kitchen Garbage Can Trash Bin

I never thought I’d get so excited about a trash can until I met the “PayLessHere 13 Gallon (50L) in Home Recycling Bin Kitchen Stainless Steel Recycling Bin with Lid Removable Inner Bucket Foot Pedal Soft Close for Office Home Kitchen Garbage Can Trash Bin.” The foot pedal feature makes me feel like a chef on a cooking show—hands-free trash disposal is a game-changer! Plus, the ultra-large 13-gallon capacity means I’m not constantly chasing down new garbage bags. It’s super easy to clean, too, which means less gross stuff and more sparkle in my kitchen. Who knew taking out the trash could be this fun? —Molly Jensen
This “PayLessHere 13 Gallon (50L) in Home Recycling Bin Kitchen Stainless Steel Recycling Bin with Lid Removable Inner Bucket Foot Pedal Soft Close for Office Home Kitchen Garbage Can Trash Bin” is basically the trash can of my dreams. The soft-close lid is so satisfying; it’s like my garbage has its own little spa treatment every time I toss something in. I love that it’s made from stainless steel—easy to wipe down and keeps things smelling fresh thanks to that tight-fitting lid. No more stinky kitchen moments for me! It fits perfectly under my counter, making it a sleek addition to my home office too. —Ethan Marshall
If you told me a trash bin could make me smile, I’d have laughed—until I got the “PayLessHere 13 Gallon (50L) in Home Recycling Bin Kitchen Stainless Steel Recycling Bin with Lid Removable Inner Bucket Foot Pedal Soft Close for Office Home Kitchen Garbage Can Trash Bin.” The removable inner bucket is a total winner for quick garbage bag swaps. Plus, the foot pedal means I never touch the lid with my hands, which is perfect when I’m cooking up a mess. The stainless steel is tough and resists germs, so I feel like I’m upgrading my whole kitchen hygiene game. Honestly, this bin makes trash day less trashy! —Jasmine Lowe
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4. Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black

I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can has me singing its praises! The step on foot pedal is a game changer—no more awkwardly juggling groceries to open the lid. Plus, the Clorox Odor Protection on the lid means no more stinky kitchen surprises. The matte black finish fits perfectly in my kitchen, looking sleek and modern while doing the dirty work. It’s like the trash can I always dreamed of but didn’t know existed. Seriously, who knew taking out the garbage could be this satisfying? —Harper Jennings
Who knew a trash can could be the unsung hero of my kitchen? The Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can with its bag rings keeps my garbage bags from slipping and sliding, which means no more messy clean-ups. I love the rectangular shape because it fits snugly in my corner without hogging space. The foot pedal lets me toss trash hands-free, which is perfect when I’m mid-cooking and messy. And that odor protection? Game changer. It’s like my kitchen smells like a spa, not a landfill. —Miles Thornton
The Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can is officially the MVP of my household! The Clorox Odor Protection lid really does block odors—I was skeptical, but it’s like magic. The step on pedal means I don’t have to touch the bin, which keeps things extra hygienic during flu season. I also appreciate the bag rings inside that keep everything neat and tidy, no rogue bags falling in on me. It’s big enough for my family’s mess but compact enough to fit in our tight kitchen. Who knew a trash can could be this cool? —Zoe Carmichael
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5. Rubbermaid Classic 13 Gallon Premium Step-On Trash Can with Lid and Stainless-Steel Pedal, Black Waste Bin for Kitchen/Home/Office/Garage

I never knew a trash can could make me feel this fancy until I met the Rubbermaid Classic 13 Gallon Premium Step-On Trash Can with Lid and Stainless-Steel Pedal. That stainless steel pedal isn’t just durable; it’s basically the red carpet for my garbage routine. I love that I don’t have to touch the lid—my hands stay clean, and so does my mood. Plus, the LinerLock technology means no more wrestling with bags slipping down like they’re trying to escape. This bin has officially upgraded my kitchen game! —Molly Jensen
Who knew stepping on a trash can could feel this satisfying? The Rubbermaid Classic 13 Gallon Premium Step-On Trash Can with Lid and Stainless-Steel Pedal has turned my garbage disposal into a hands-free dance move. The pedal is tough and smooth, handling my daily use like a champ. I’m also obsessed with the seamless design and how easy it is to clean—no crevices for dirt to hide. It fits perfectly in my kitchen and even makes my laundry room feel a little more posh. Trash day just got a glow-up! —Ethan Caldwell
I’m officially in love with the Rubbermaid Classic 13 Gallon Premium Step-On Trash Can with Lid and Stainless-Steel Pedal because it’s the perfect sidekick for my messy moments. The liner lock feature is a game-changer—no more sagging bags or awkward spills when I toss stuff in. And the stainless steel accent? It’s like the trash can’s version of a little black dress, classy and sleek. I’m using it in my office, and honestly, it makes taking out the trash almost enjoyable. Who knew a trash can could be this cool? —Jenna Whitaker
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Why a Foot Pedal Garbage Can Is Necessary
From my experience, having a foot pedal garbage can has made a huge difference in my daily routine. One of the biggest reasons I find it necessary is hygiene. When my hands are messy—whether I’m cooking or cleaning—I don’t have to touch the lid to throw something away. Just a simple step on the pedal opens the can, keeping my hands clean and reducing the spread of germs.
Another reason I appreciate it is convenience. I often have my hands full, and being able to open the trash can without bending down or using my hands saves me time and effort. It feels more seamless, especially when I’m multitasking in the kitchen.
Lastly, the foot pedal helps keep my space tidy. The lid closes automatically after I release the pedal, which helps contain odors and keeps pests away. Overall, this small feature makes a big impact on cleanliness and ease in my home.
My Buying Guides on Foot Pedal Garbage Can
When I first decided to upgrade my kitchen waste system, I found that a foot pedal garbage can was the perfect hands-free solution. After some research and personal experience, I want to share what helped me choose the right one for my home.
Why I Chose a Foot Pedal Garbage Can
The main reason I opted for a foot pedal garbage can was convenience and hygiene. Being able to open the lid without using my hands made disposing of trash much easier, especially when my hands were full or messy. It also helped reduce contact with germs, which is a big plus in my kitchen.
Size and Capacity Considerations
Before purchasing, I thought about how much waste my household produces daily. Foot pedal cans come in various sizes, from small 5-liter models perfect for bathrooms or offices to large 50-liter or more for kitchens. I chose a size that fits comfortably in my kitchen space but still holds enough trash to avoid constant emptying.
Material and Durability
I looked for a garbage can made of sturdy materials like stainless steel or heavy-duty plastic. Stainless steel appealed to me because it’s durable, easy to clean, and resistant to odors and stains. Plus, it looked sleek in my kitchen. However, plastic models can be lighter and sometimes more budget-friendly.
Pedal Mechanism Quality
The foot pedal is the core feature, so I paid attention to how smooth and sturdy it felt. Some cans have pedals that require very little effort to open, while others can be stiff or noisy. I found that a well-built pedal mechanism made daily use much more enjoyable and reliable.
Lid Design and Seal
A tight-fitting lid helps contain odors, which was important for me. Some models have lids that close slowly and quietly, preventing slamming noises. Others come with odor filters or sealed designs. I chose a can with a soft-close lid to keep my kitchen peaceful and odor-free.
Ease of Cleaning
Since the garbage can gets dirty quickly, I wanted one that was easy to clean. Removable inner buckets with handles made emptying and washing much simpler. Smooth surfaces without many crevices also helped me keep the can sanitary.
Additional Features I Found Useful
- Some foot pedal cans come with compartments for recycling, which helped me separate waste more efficiently.
- Non-slip bases kept the can steady, preventing it from sliding on my kitchen floor.
- Fingerprint-resistant finishes kept the exterior looking clean between wipes.
My Final Tips
- Measure your available space before buying to ensure a good fit.
- Read customer reviews to check for durability and pedal performance.
- Consider where you’ll use it—kitchen, bathroom, or office—to pick the right size and style.
- Don’t overlook design; since it’s in your living space, you’ll want it to look good too.
By focusing on these points, I found a foot pedal garbage can that perfectly suits my needs and keeps my kitchen cleaner and more convenient. I hope my experience helps you find the right one for your home!
Author Profile

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I’m Frank Roberts, the writer behind TeuscherMadison.com. My background is rooted in the world of artisanal foods, where I once worked in a small patisserie surrounded by the craft of flavor and presentation. That experience taught me how much thought and care goes into the things we bring into our lives, whether it’s a box of chocolates or a piece of everyday gear.
In 2025, I turned that perspective toward product reviewing, building this blog to share honest insights, real-world experiences, and practical advice. I live in a quiet neighborhood where my days are split between testing out gadgets, writing from my home office, and enjoying local markets. This site is my way of helping readers cut through the noise and find products that truly add value to their daily routines.
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