Is your kitchen trash can a constant source of frustration? Does it look clunky, smell bad, or feel flimsy? You’re not alone. Choosing a trash can, especially a quality one like a Simplehuman, can feel surprisingly tricky. There are so many models with different features, sizes, and styles. You want something that works well, looks good, and lasts a long time, but figuring out which one is best can be a headache.
That’s why we’re diving deep into the world of Simplehuman trash cans. In this post, we’ll break down what makes these bins so popular and help you navigate the choices. We’ll explore the different types, what features are truly useful, and how to find the perfect fit for your home. Get ready to say goodbye to trash-related stress and hello to a cleaner, more stylish kitchen!
Our Top 5 Simplehuman Trash Can Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Simplehuman Trash Can Detailed Reviews
1. simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Liter Rectangular Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid
Rating: 8.7/10
Tired of messy trash can liners and lids that slam shut? The simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Rectangular Step Trash Can is here to make your kitchen cleanup easier and tidier. This sleek, brushed stainless steel bin with a plastic lid is designed for convenience and a touch of modern style.
What We Like:
- The liner rim flips up and then closes over the liner, keeping it neat and hidden.
- A handy liner pocket lets you store liners right inside the can for quick changes.
- The strong steel pedal is built to last, so you can step on it for years.
- The soft-close lid closes slowly and silently, no more loud bangs.
- The dent-proof plastic lid stays clean and resists fingerprints.
- Specially designed “perfect fit” liners won’t bunch or slip, and they’re extra strong to prevent rips and leaks.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the plastic lid resists fingerprints, the stainless steel body can show smudges.
- The “perfect fit” liners are specific to this can, meaning you can’t just grab any brand.
This trash can offers smart features that really improve the everyday experience of taking out the trash. It’s a solid choice for a cleaner, more organized kitchen.
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 can changes and lingering odors? The simplehuman 55 Liter Rectangular Kitchen Step Trash Can makes kitchen cleanup a breeze. Its sleek brushed stainless steel design looks great in any kitchen, and it’s packed with smart features to make your life easier.
What We Like:
- Changing liners is super simple thanks to the flip-up liner rim that hides the liner.
- The built-in liner pocket keeps your spare liners right where you need them, so no more searching!
- Its fingerprint-proof coating means it stays looking clean and shiny, even with lots of use.
- The extra-wide steel pedal is built to last for many years, making it a strong and reliable choice.
- The soft-close lid moves slowly and silently, so no more loud bangs!
- An internal hinge stops the lid from hitting your wall.
- Special custom-fit liners are available to make sure you get a perfect fit every time.
- A special pod is included to keep your kitchen smelling fresh by blocking odors for 45 days.
What Could Be Improved:
- The custom-fit liners can be a bit more expensive than regular trash bags.
This trash can is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It’s designed for durability and user-friendliness, making everyday tasks much more pleasant.
3. simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock
Rating: 9.3/10
Tired of noisy trash can lids and messy bags? The simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can in black plastic is designed to make your kitchen cleanup easier and quieter. Its smart features tackle common trash can annoyances, offering a more convenient way to manage your household waste.
What We Like:
- The patented lid shox technology makes the lid close slowly and silently. No more loud bangs!
- A handy slide lock keeps the lid shut tight, stopping pets and kids from rummaging through the trash.
- Need to toss a lot at once? The lid stays open as long as you need it, which is great for busy cooking sessions.
- Its space-saving semi-round shape fits perfectly in busy kitchen areas.
- With a large 50-liter capacity, it’s ideal for families or households that produce a lot of waste.
- simplehuman’s custom fit liners are made to fit this can perfectly, so they don’t slip down and stay hidden from view. They are also extra thick and have double seams to prevent rips.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the plastic is durable, some users might prefer a stainless steel option for a different look or feel.
- The price point might be higher than basic trash cans, but the advanced features offer good value.
This simplehuman trash can is a solid upgrade for any kitchen. It brings quiet operation and smart security features to a daily chore.
4. simplehuman 38 Liter / 10 Gallon Rectangular Kitchen Step Trash Can
Rating: 8.7/10
The simplehuman 38 Liter / 10 Gallon Rectangular Kitchen Step Trash Can in Brushed Stainless Steel is a fantastic upgrade for any kitchen. It’s designed to make trash day a little less messy and a lot more convenient. This can is built to last and looks great doing it.
What We Like:
- Strong Steel Pedal: It’s built to last for a very long time, meaning you won’t have to worry about it breaking.
- Silent Close Lid: The lid closes softly and quietly, so no more loud bangs.
- Internal Hinge: You can place the can right next to your wall without the lid hitting it.
- Stay-Open Lid: This is super helpful for when you have bigger messes or need to keep the lid open for a while.
- Non-Skid Base: It stays put and won’t scratch your floors.
- Bucket Park: Changing the trash bag is made easy.
- Fingerprint-Proof Finish: It always looks clean and shiny.
- Custom Fit Liners: The special liners fit perfectly and stay hidden. They are also super strong.
- Removable Inner Bucket: This bucket catches leaks and is easy to clean.
- Replacement Bucket Available: You can easily replace the inner bucket if it gets old or dirty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price might be a bit higher than some other trash cans.
- While the custom liners are great, you have to buy them specifically for this can.
This simplehuman trash can is a solid investment for any kitchen. Its thoughtful design and durable construction make it a winner.
5. simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Rectangular Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of messy trash can liner changes? The simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Rectangular Kitchen Step Trash Can in Grey Plastic is here to make your kitchen chores easier. This trash can is designed to be both functional and stylish, fitting perfectly into any modern kitchen. Its generous 12-gallon capacity handles all your household waste, while its sleek grey plastic finish looks great.
What We Like:
- The Liner Pocket is a game-changer. It keeps your liners right where you need them, making liner changes super fast. No more fumbling for a new bag!
- The Neat and Secure design means the liner rim flips up for easy changes and then locks the liner in place, hiding it from view. Your trash can always looks tidy.
- The Strong Wide Steel Pedal is built to last. It’s strong and wide, so it’s easy to step on, and it’s tested for 150,000 steps, meaning it should last for years.
- Enjoy a Silent Close Lid thanks to the patented lid shox technology. The lid closes slowly and quietly, so no more banging lids!
- A Stabilizer Bar keeps the can steady. This means smooth and solid operation every time you use the pedal.
- The Internal Hinge is a smart detail. It stops the lid from hitting your wall, protecting your paint and your can.
- Custom fit liners are available and designed to fit this can perfectly. They are extra strong to prevent leaks and tears, and the refill packs store right inside the can with the liner pocket.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the grey plastic is durable, some users might prefer a stainless steel option for a more premium look.
- The liner pocket is a great feature, but it only works best with simplehuman’s custom-fit liners.
Overall, this simplehuman trash can offers a well-thought-out design that simplifies a common household task. It’s a durable and convenient addition to any kitchen.
Simplehuman Trash Can: Your Guide to a Cleaner Home
Choosing the right trash can can make a big difference in your home. Simplehuman is known for making high-quality, stylish trash cans that are built to last. This guide will help you pick the perfect Simplehuman trash can for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a Simplehuman trash can, keep these important features in mind:
- Lid Type: Simplehuman offers different lid styles. Some open with a foot pedal, which is great for keeping your hands clean. Others have motion sensor lids that open automatically when you wave your hand. Some are simple open-top cans.
- Capacity: Trash cans come in various sizes. Think about how much trash your household makes. Small cans are good for bathrooms, while larger ones work well in kitchens.
- Shape and Size: Simplehuman makes slim cans perfect for tight spaces, as well as wider ones for more room. Measure where you plan to put the can before you buy.
- Inner Liner: Many Simplehuman cans have a special inner liner that holds the trash bag neatly in place. This stops the bag from slipping down.
- Fingerprint-Proof Finish: This is a lifesaver! It means the can won’t show smudges or fingerprints, keeping it looking clean and new.
Important Materials
Simplehuman uses good materials to make their trash cans strong and attractive.
- Stainless Steel: This is the most common material. It’s strong, doesn’t rust easily, and looks very modern. Many Simplehuman cans have a fingerprint-proof coating on the stainless steel.
- Plastic: Some smaller Simplehuman cans, like those for bathrooms, are made from durable plastic. Plastic can be lighter and sometimes less expensive.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a Simplehuman trash can great? And what might make it less ideal?
Quality Enhancers:
- Solid Construction: A well-built can feels sturdy. The lid should open and close smoothly.
- Durable Hinges: The part that connects the lid to the can needs to be strong so it doesn’t break easily.
- Non-Slip Base: This stops the can from sliding around on the floor, especially when you step on the pedal.
- Custom-Fit Liners: Simplehuman sells liners that fit their cans perfectly. Using these makes changing the bag much easier.
Quality Reducers:
- Flimsy Parts: If the pedal feels weak or the lid doesn’t close right, the quality might be lower.
- Cheap Plastic: Some plastic parts might crack or break over time if they aren’t made well.
- Poor Finishes: A finish that scratches easily or doesn’t resist fingerprints will make the can look worn out faster.
User Experience and Use Cases
Simplehuman trash cans are designed to make life easier.
Kitchen Use:
In the kitchen, you’ll want a larger can, maybe with a foot pedal or sensor lid. This helps keep things clean when you’re busy cooking. A fingerprint-proof finish is a big plus here because kitchen counters often get touched a lot.
Bathroom Use:
For a bathroom, a smaller, slimmer can is usually best. A quiet lid is also nice so it doesn’t make a loud noise. Some models have a removable inner bucket, which makes cleaning the can itself very simple.
Office or Bedroom Use:
In these spaces, a smaller, more decorative can might be preferred. A simple open-top or a motion-sensor lid can work well. The style of the can can also add to the room’s decor.
Simplehuman trash cans are an investment. By looking at the key features, materials, and considering how you’ll use it, you can find a can that will serve you well for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are Simplehuman trash cans worth the price?
A: Many people find that Simplehuman trash cans are worth it because they are very durable and have features that make them easy to use and keep clean.
Q: What is the best type of Simplehuman trash can for a kitchen?
A: For a kitchen, a larger capacity can with a foot pedal or a motion sensor lid is often the best choice. Look for a fingerprint-proof finish too.
Q: Can I use regular trash bags with Simplehuman trash cans?
A: While you can use regular trash bags, Simplehuman makes custom-fit liners that are designed to fit their cans perfectly. This helps prevent bags from slipping and makes them easier to change.
Q: How do I clean a Simplehuman trash can?
A: Most Simplehuman trash cans can be cleaned with mild soap and water. For stainless steel models, use a soft cloth and a stainless steel cleaner if needed. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
Q: Do Simplehuman trash cans come with a warranty?
A: Yes, Simplehuman typically offers a warranty on their products, usually ranging from 1 to 10 years depending on the specific model. Check the product details for exact warranty information.
Q: What does “fingerprint-proof” mean on a Simplehuman trash can?
A: It means the surface of the trash can has a special coating that helps prevent fingerprints and smudges from showing up, keeping the can looking cleaner.
Q: Are the motion sensor lids reliable?
A: Generally, Simplehuman’s motion sensor lids are very reliable and respond quickly. They are designed to open when you approach and close automatically after a short period.
Q: What is the difference between a pedal can and a sensor can?
A: A pedal can opens when you step on a lever with your foot. A sensor can opens automatically when it detects motion, usually when you wave your hand near it.
Q: Where can I buy Simplehuman trash cans?
A: You can buy Simplehuman trash cans directly from their website, as well as from major retailers like Amazon, Bed Bath & Beyond, and Target.
Q: How long do Simplehuman trash cans usually last?
A: With proper care, Simplehuman trash cans are known to last many years, often 5 to 10 years or even longer, due to their high-quality construction.
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!