Does your trash can feel like a forgotten chore? You know, the one that’s always a little wobbly, maybe smells a bit, or just looks plain… well, trashy? For many of us, picking out a new trash can isn’t exactly thrilling. In fact, it can be a bit of a headache! There are so many different sizes, features, and prices, it’s tough to know where to start. You want something that works well, looks good in your kitchen, and doesn’t break the bank.
That’s where Simple Human comes in. They make trash cans that are a little bit special. But even with their great reputation, choosing the perfect one can still feel overwhelming. Which one is best for your kitchen? What makes one better than another? We get it!
In this post, we’re going to break down exactly what makes Simple Human trash cans so popular and help you find the one that fits your life. We’ll look at what makes them stand out, so you can stop stressing and start enjoying a cleaner, more stylish kitchen. Get ready to make your trash-hauling days a whole lot easier!
Our Top 5 Simple Human Trash Can Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Simple Human Trash Can Detailed Reviews
1. simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Liter Rectangular Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid
Rating: 8.9/10
The simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Rectangular Kitchen Step Trash Can makes taking out the trash a breeze. Its brushed stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen, and the plastic lid stays clean and fingerprint-free. This can is designed for convenience and durability, making your kitchen chores a little easier.
What We Like:
- The stainless steel liner rim flips up for easy bag changes and then hides the bag neatly.
- A special liner pocket keeps your trash bags right where you need them, so you don’t have to search for them.
- The strong steel pedal is built to last for over 20 years, even with daily use.
- The lid closes slowly and silently thanks to special lid technology, no more banging!
- The dent-proof plastic lid means it won’t show smudges or fingerprints, keeping your kitchen looking tidy.
- simplehuman’s special code M liners fit perfectly, preventing messy bag overhang and keeping the inside of the can clean. These liners are also extra strong to prevent rips and leaks.
What Could Be Improved:
- The custom fit liners are an additional purchase and may be more expensive than standard trash bags.
- While the plastic lid is dent-proof, the stainless steel body could potentially still get scratched or dented.
This trash can is a solid investment for a cleaner, more organized kitchen. Its smart features make a noticeable difference in everyday use.
2. simplehuman 55 Liter / 14.5 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid
Rating: 9.3/10
Tired of messy trash cans and smelly kitchens? The simplehuman 55 Liter / 14.5 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can in brushed stainless steel is here to make your life easier. It’s designed to be both stylish and super functional for any kitchen.
What We Like:
- NEAT AND SECURE: The stainless steel liner rim flips up for easy trash bag changes. It then closes tightly, hiding the bag and keeping everything tidy.
- LINER POCKET: No more searching for trash bags! A special pocket inside the can holds your custom-fit bags, making changes quick and easy.
- FINGERPRINT-PROOF: The beautiful stainless steel finish stays clean because it has a special coating that stops fingerprints from showing.
- STRONG WIDE STEEL PEDAL: The sturdy, wide pedal is built to last for years, meaning you can step on it thousands of times without worry.
- SILENT CLOSE LID: The lid closes slowly and quietly thanks to special technology, so no more loud bangs!
- INTERNAL HINGE: The lid won’t hit your wall because the hinge is hidden inside.
- CUSTOM FIT LINERS: Simplehuman’s Code Q liners fit this can perfectly and are super strong to prevent leaks.
- NEW ODORSORB POD: An all-natural pod fits under the lid to keep your kitchen smelling fresh for 45 days.
What Could Be Improved:
- Price: While it’s a high-quality product, the initial cost might be a bit high for some budgets.
- Liner Dependency: You get the best experience with simplehuman’s custom-fit liners, which can be an added expense.
Overall, this trash can offers smart features that make kitchen cleanup a breeze. It’s a great investment for a cleaner, fresher-smelling kitchen.
3. simplehuman 50 Liter / 13.0 Gallon Rectangular Kitchen Step Trash Can
Rating: 8.9/10
The simplehuman 50 Liter / 13.0 Gallon Rectangular Kitchen Step Trash Can in brushed stainless steel is a stylish and practical addition to any kitchen. Its sleek design looks great and its features make trash disposal a breeze.
What We Like:
- Its strong steel pedal is built to last for over 150,000 steps, meaning it can handle daily use for years.
- The patented lid shox technology ensures a smooth, silent close every time, so no more noisy bangs.
- The internal hinge lets you push the can right up against the wall, saving valuable kitchen space.
- Need to do a big clean-up? The stay-open lid feature keeps the lid open as long as you need it.
- A non-skid base with rubber pads protects your floors and keeps the can from sliding around.
- The 50L model includes built-in wheels, making it super easy to move the can when you need to clean or reorganize.
- Keep your trash can looking its best with the fingerprint-proof finish that resists smudges.
- simplehuman’s custom fit liners are made to fit perfectly, preventing them from slipping or showing.
- Changing the bag is simple thanks to the bucket park feature, which holds the inner bucket for easy access.
- The removable inner bucket catches any drips and lifts out for easy cleaning.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the brushed stainless steel looks great, it can sometimes show water spots if not wiped down regularly.
- The custom-fit liners are a great idea, but they can be a bit more expensive than generic brands.
Overall, this simplehuman trash can offers excellent durability and user-friendly features for a smooth kitchen experience. It’s a worthwhile investment for a cleaner, more organized home.
4. simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock
Rating: 9.4/10
Tired of noisy, messy trash cans? The simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can in black plastic is here to help. This can is designed to make your kitchen life easier and cleaner. Its smart features keep your home tidy and your family safe.
What We Like:
- The lid closes softly and quietly thanks to special Shox technology.
- A handy slide lock keeps the lid shut, stopping pets and kids from making a mess.
- You can leave the lid open for as long as you need for big kitchen jobs.
- Its half-round shape fits nicely against walls, saving space in busy kitchens.
- With a large 50-liter capacity, it’s perfect for families or busy homes.
- simplehuman’s P liners fit perfectly, so they won’t slip or show. They are also extra strong to prevent rips.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the plastic is durable, some might prefer a stainless steel look.
- The price point might be a bit higher than basic trash cans.
This simplehuman trash can brings quiet efficiency and security to your kitchen. It’s a smart upgrade for any household looking for a cleaner, more organized space.
5. simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Rectangular Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid
Rating: 9.4/10
The simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Rectangular Kitchen Step Trash Can in grey plastic is a kitchen upgrade that makes trash day a little less of a chore. Its sleek design fits nicely in most kitchens, and its smart features help keep your space tidy.
What We Like:
- Liner Pocket: This is a game-changer! It keeps your trash bags right where you need them, making changes super fast. No more hunting for a new bag or dealing with messy rolls.
- Neat and Secure Liner Rim: The stainless steel rim flips up easily to change the liner, then it closes down to hold the bag tightly. This means no ugly bag edges sticking out, keeping your trash can looking clean.
- Strong Wide Steel Pedal: simplehuman built this pedal to last. It’s super strong and can handle over 150,000 steps, meaning it should last for years and years.
- Silent Close Lid: The lid closes slowly and quietly thanks to special “lid shox” technology. This prevents that annoying loud slam and keeps your kitchen peaceful.
- Stabilizer Bar: This bar keeps the can from wobbling when you step on the pedal. It makes using the can feel solid and smooth.
- Internal Hinge: The hinge is designed so the lid won’t bump into your wall. This protects your walls and lets you place the can closer.
- Custom Fit Liners: simplehuman’s Code K liners are made to fit this can perfectly. They are extra strong so they won’t leak or tear, and they store neatly in the can’s liner pocket.
What Could Be Improved:
- The liner pocket, while useful, means you might be encouraged to buy simplehuman’s specific liners, which could be a bit more expensive than generic ones.
- While the pedal is very durable, the overall price point is higher than many basic trash cans.
This simplehuman trash can brings convenience and a touch of class to your kitchen. It’s a well-built product that focuses on making a daily task easier and your kitchen tidier.
Your Guide to Choosing a Simplehuman Trash Can
Simplehuman trash cans are known for their sleek designs and smart features. They can make taking out the trash a little less of a chore. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? This guide will help you find the perfect Simplehuman trash can for your home.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a Simplehuman trash can, keep these important features in mind:
- Lid Type: Simplehuman offers different lid styles. Some have a motion sensor that opens the lid with a wave of your hand. Others have a step pedal for hands-free opening. There are also models with a side pedal or a touch bar. Think about how you want to open the can most easily.
- Size (Capacity): Trash cans come in various sizes, measured in liters or gallons. Consider where the can will go. A small kitchen might need a 4.5-liter can, while a larger family kitchen might benefit from a 13-gallon model.
- Shape: Simplehuman cans come in different shapes, like rectangular, round, or slim. A slim, rectangular can is great for tight spaces, like between a cabinet and a wall. A round can might fit better in the middle of a room.
- Inner Liner: Many Simplehuman cans have an inner liner that holds the trash bag. This liner can often be removed for easy cleaning. Some liners have special features to keep the bag from slipping down.
- Fingerprint-Proof Finish: Stainless steel cans can get smudged. Many Simplehuman models have a special coating that resists fingerprints and makes cleaning easier.
Important Materials
The materials used in a trash can affect its durability and look.
- Stainless Steel: This is a very common material for Simplehuman cans. It’s strong, looks modern, and is easy to clean. High-quality stainless steel resists rust and corrosion.
- Plastic: Some Simplehuman cans use durable plastic, which can be lighter and sometimes less expensive. Look for sturdy, high-quality plastic that won’t crack easily.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all Simplehuman trash cans are created equal. Here’s what makes a difference:
- Hinges and Mechanisms: A well-made hinge for the lid or a sturdy pedal mechanism will last longer. Cheap parts can break quickly.
- Weight and Stability: A heavier can is less likely to tip over when you step on the pedal or when it’s full.
- Bag Fit: A can designed to hold the trash bag securely without slipping makes a big difference. Some cans have special clips or bands for this.
- Ease of Cleaning: Smooth surfaces and removable liners make cleaning much simpler.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use the trash can:
- Kitchen: This is where most trash cans live. Hands-free opening (sensor or pedal) is very helpful when your hands are messy from cooking. A larger capacity is usually needed in the kitchen.
- Bathroom: A smaller, slim can is often perfect for a bathroom. A motion sensor lid can be more hygienic in this space.
- Office or Bedroom: A smaller, stylish can can keep a room tidy without being an eyesore.
Simplehuman trash cans are an investment in making your home cleaner and more convenient. By considering these features, materials, and how you’ll use them, you can choose a trash can that you’ll be happy with for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What makes Simplehuman trash cans different from other brands?
A: Simplehuman cans often have thoughtful features like fingerprint-proof finishes, quiet-close lids, and custom-fit liners. They focus on smart design and durability.
Q: Are Simplehuman trash cans worth the price?
A: Many users find they are worth it because of their quality, durability, and useful features that make daily tasks easier.
Q: How do I clean a Simplehuman trash can?
A: Most stainless steel Simplehuman cans can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap. For tougher spots, a stainless steel cleaner can be used. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions.
Q: What size Simplehuman trash can do I need for my kitchen?
A: For a family of 3-4, a 13-gallon (around 50-liter) trash can is usually a good size. Smaller households might prefer a 10-gallon (around 40-liter) can.
Q: Do Simplehuman trash cans come with liners?
A: Usually, they do not come with liners. Simplehuman sells custom-fit liners that are designed to fit their cans perfectly, which helps prevent tearing and slipping.
Q: Can I use regular trash bags with Simplehuman trash cans?
A: Yes, you can use regular trash bags, but custom-fit liners are often recommended for the best fit and to avoid the bag showing or falling into the can.
Q: How long do Simplehuman trash cans usually last?
A: With proper care, a Simplehuman trash can can last many years, often 10 years or more, due to their sturdy construction and quality materials.
Q: What is the “quiet-close” feature?
A: The quiet-close feature means the lid closes slowly and silently, preventing the loud bang that can happen with regular trash cans.
Q: Are the motion sensor cans easy to use?
A: Yes, most users find the motion sensor cans very easy to use. You just wave your hand over the sensor, and the lid opens automatically.
Q: Where can I buy Simplehuman trash cans?
A: You can buy them directly from the Simplehuman website, as well as from major retailers like Amazon, Target, and Bed Bath & Beyond.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.

Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!




