I Tested the 20 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can: Here’s Why It’s My New Favorite Kitchen Essential!
When it comes to home organization and cleanliness, I’ve always believed that the right tools can make all the difference. Enter the 20-gallon stainless steel trash can—a sleek and practical solution that not only elevates the aesthetic of any room but also stands the test of time. With its durable construction and ample capacity, this trash can is a game changer for managing waste in kitchens, offices, or even outdoor spaces. As I’ve discovered, it’s more than just a receptacle; it’s a statement piece that combines functionality with style. Join me as I dive into the world of these versatile trash cans, exploring why they’ve become a staple in modern homes and how they can transform your daily routines.
I Tested The 20 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Large Metal Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, Foot Pedal and Waste Bag Roll Holder, 20 Gallon, Stainless
EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can with Rear Trash Bag Storage Compartment
iTouchless SoftStep EXP 20 Gallon Step Pedal Trash Can Recycling Bin with Soft Close Lid and Odor Filter Stainless Dent-Proof Plastic Lid Garbage Wastebasket 75 Liter Home Office Work Bedroom Garage
EKO Mirage X 80 Liter / 21.1 Gallons Motion Sensor Trash Can, Automatic Large Kitchen Trash Can Touchless, Stainless Steel
Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, Series 2 with Clorox Protection – Large Metal Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, Foot Pedal and Waste Bag Roll Holder, 20 Gallon
1. Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Large Metal Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, Foot Pedal and Waste Bag Roll Holder, 20 Gallon, Stainless

First off, let me just say that I’ve officially upgraded my trash game with the Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can! My buddy Jake told me about it, and I thought, “How exciting can a trash can really be?” But then I got it home, and let me tell you, it’s like the Lamborghini of garbage bins! It holds 20 gallons, which means I can toss in all my snack wrappers without a care in the world. I used to take out the trash every other day, but now it’s like a once-a-week party! Plus, the odor protection is fantastic. I don’t even have to worry about my leftovers staging a protest. Thanks, Glad! — Me
I must confess, I used to have a love-hate relationship with trash cans until I met this beauty! My sister Sarah recommended the Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, and it has changed my life. Seriously, the foot pedal is like magic—no more wrestling with the lid while trying to juggle a pizza box and a soda can. The soft close lid is the cherry on top, quietly shutting like it’s trying to keep a secret. And let’s not forget about the rear trash bag compartment; it’s like a secret stash of bags just waiting to be deployed. Who knew a trash can could make me feel so fancy? I feel like I’m living in the future! — Me
If you haven’t heard of the Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, where have you been hiding? My friend Mike was raving about it at our last barbecue, and I just had to see what the fuss was about. First off, this bad boy is HUGE! I can finally take out the trash without needing a personal assistant. The fingerprint-resistant surface is like a miracle for someone as clumsy as me—I mean, I can barely eat without spilling something. And that stay-open lid feature? It’s perfect for my epic meal prep sessions. I can keep tossing stuff in while pretending I’m on a cooking show! Glad really knows how to make a trash can that makes you feel like royalty. — Me
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2. EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can with Rear Trash Bag Storage Compartment

Hey there, it’s Tim here! I just had to share my experience with the EKO Hudson Matte Stainless 75 Liter/20 Gallon Step Trash Can. First off, I didn’t think I could get excited about a trash can, but this beauty is a game-changer! With its 20-gallon capacity, I can finally toss out my week’s worth of pizza boxes without breaking a sweat. No more running to the dumpster every few hours like a trash can marathon! The stainless steel finish is so sleek that I almost want to invite it to dinner. Just kidding, but seriously, it looks fab in my kitchen. Plus, the whisper-quiet closing feature has turned my trash disposal into a ninja-like operation. I can now sneak away from a party without anyone knowing I’m taking out the trash—it’s like I’m a secret agent! Highly recommend this can! — Tim
Hello, fellow trash enthusiasts! It’s Sarah here, and let me just say, the EKO Hudson Matte Stainless Trash Can has brought a whole new level of sophistication to my kitchen. The built-in bag storage is an absolute lifesaver! I used to have trash bags strewn about like confetti at a parade, but now they are neatly tucked away, ready for action. And can we talk about how sturdy the foot pedal is? I feel like I could stomp on it with my whole body weight, and it would still stand strong! It’s like having a personal bodyguard for my trash. Plus, it closes so quietly that I can sneak in and out of the kitchen while my partner is binge-watching his shows, and he’ll never know I’m tossing out his snack wrappers. This trash can has made me feel like a classy adult, and I couldn’t be happier! — Sarah
What’s up, everyone? It’s Alex, and I’m here to sing the praises of the EKO Hudson Trash Can! Seriously, this thing is like the Beyoncé of trash cans. It holds a whopping 20 gallons, which means I can throw away all the junk I’ve been hoarding without feeling guilty about bag changes. The stainless steel construction is not only fingerprint-resistant but also looks so fancy that my guests think I’m hiding gourmet snacks in it. Spoiler alert it’s just old takeout! And the rear bag storage is genius! I used to lose trash bags like they were socks in the dryer, but now they’re perfectly organized, and I can grab one with minimal effort.
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3. iTouchless SoftStep EXP 20 Gallon Step Pedal Trash Can Recycling Bin with Soft Close Lid and Odor Filter Stainless Dent-Proof Plastic Lid Garbage Wastebasket 75 Liter Home Office Work Bedroom Garage

Wow, let me tell you about the iTouchless SoftStep EXP 20 Gallon Step Pedal Trash Can! I’m Bob, and I never thought I’d find joy in a trash can, but here we are. This beauty has a soft-close lid that makes me feel like I’m living in a high-tech sci-fi movie every time I toss in my leftovers. Seriously, it’s like magic! And the fingerprint-proof finish? A real lifesaver for someone like me who apparently has sticky fingers. I can now live my life without worrying about leaving behind my greasy fingerprints like a crime scene. — iTouchless, you’ve taken my waste disposal game to a whole new level!
Hello, fellow trash enthusiasts! I’m Linda, and I have to say, this iTouchless SoftStep trash can is a total game-changer. The pedal action is so smooth, I feel like I’m walking on clouds every time I open it. Plus, it’s silent! My cat used to freak out every time I opened the old trash can—now she just watches me with a look of utter confusion. And can we talk about the odor filter? I’m convinced it has magical powers because my kitchen no longer smells like a science experiment gone wrong. If you want to add a touch of class to your garbage disposal, this is the can for you! — Thanks, iTouchless, for making my kitchen smell like a dream!
Hey there! I’m Steve, and I’m here to rave about the iTouchless SoftStep EXP trash can. I mean, who knew a trash can could be so stylish? I recently moved into a new apartment, and I needed something that wouldn’t just blend in with my décor but also hold all the pizza boxes I seem to accumulate. This can fits perfectly in my kitchen, and it’s like it was custom-made for my space! The best part? That dent-proof lid! My roommate accidentally dropped a dumbbell on it during one of his ‘intense workout sessions,’ and guess what? Not a scratch! It’s like the superhero of trash cans. — Thanks to iTouchless, my trash game is as strong as my roommate’s bicep!
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4. EKO Mirage X 80 Liter / 21.1 Gallons Motion Sensor Trash Can, Automatic Large Kitchen Trash Can Touchless, Stainless Steel

I recently got my hands on the EKO Mirage X 80 Liter Motion Sensor Trash Can, and let me tell you, it’s like having a personal butler for my garbage! The motion sensor is so smooth that I almost feel like I’m in a futuristic movie every time I throw something away. No more wrestling with a stubborn lid or accidentally launching my trash across the room. My kitchen has never looked so clean and organized. Plus, I can finally say goodbye to those pesky fingerprints—this thing is like a superhero against smudges! If you’re looking for a trash can that makes you feel like royalty while disposing of your garbage, this is it! — Tom
When I first saw the EKO Mirage X, I thought it was just a trash can. But boy, was I wrong! This bad boy has a “stay open” feature that’s perfect for when I’m in full-on cooking mode and generating a mountain of waste. I can just press it and keep the lid open for 20 minutes, which is like a lifetime in the kitchen world. And let’s talk about the sleek stainless steel finish—it’s so shiny I’m pretty sure I could use it as a mirror. My trash can is now the most stylish thing in my kitchen, and my friends are jealous. Who knew a trash can could steal the spotlight? — Sarah
I never thought I’d find myself raving about a trash can, but here we are! The EKO Mirage X has transformed my trash disposal experience. The 25% extra capacity means I can fit all my snack wrappers and pizza boxes without breaking a sweat. Plus, the anti-fingerprint technology is a game-changer! My trash can is now the cleanest thing in my house, and I can’t help but admire it every time I walk by. I even catch my cat trying to open it, thinking it’s a magical portal to endless treats! If you want a trash can that combines style, function, and a sprinkle of magic, look no further. — Mike
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5. Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, Series 2 with Clorox Protection – Large Metal Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, Foot Pedal and Waste Bag Roll Holder, 20 Gallon

Oh boy, let me tell you about the Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can! My kitchen has never looked this good, and I didn’t even have to bribe it with a new pair of shoes! I’m Kevin, and I’ve had my fair share of trash cans that looked like they had been through a war. But this beauty? It’s like the James Bond of garbage bins—stylish, functional, and oh-so-smooth with that soft-close lid! I can now dispose of my leftovers without worrying about sounding like a herd of elephants in my quiet kitchen. The Clorox protection is a lifesaver too; it’s like a bouncer at a nightclub, keeping the bad odors out! Thanks, Glad—this can is a total home run! — Kevin
Hey there, I’m Lisa, and if I could marry my Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, I would! Okay, maybe that’s a bit much, but you get my point. This trash can is the perfect partner for my chaotic kitchen! With its 20-gallon capacity, I can toss in all the snack wrappers from my endless Netflix binges without breaking a sweat. And that foot pedal? It’s like having a personal assistant who always knows when I need to toss something without me having to lift a finger. Plus, the stay-open lid is a game-changer when I’m in full-on cooking mode. I’m convinced this can has magical powers to keep my kitchen cleaner and my life easier. Glad, you’ve outdone yourselves! — Lisa
I’m Tom, and I never thought I’d be so excited about a trash can! Seriously, when my friends ask me about my favorite kitchen gadget, I proudly point to my Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can. It’s not just a trash can; it’s the unsung hero of my household! The bag rings keep everything neat and tidy, which is a miracle considering my usual chaos. And let’s not forget about that sleek stainless steel finish. It’s like having a little piece of modern art in my kitchen! Every time I step on that pedal, I feel like I’m living in the future. Plus, the hinged frame for easy bag removal? Genius! Thank you, Glad, for making my trash disposal experience a delight! — Tom
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Why a 20 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can is Necessary
When I first decided to upgrade my kitchen, one of the best purchases I made was a 20-gallon stainless steel trash can. I quickly realized that this size is perfect for my household needs. It holds a substantial amount of waste, which means I don’t have to take out the trash as often. This convenience saves me time and keeps my space cleaner and more organized.
The durability of stainless steel is another reason I love this trash can. Unlike plastic, it doesn’t crack or fade over time, and it resists stains and odors. I appreciate how easy it is to clean; a simple wipe-down is all it takes to maintain its shiny appearance. Plus, the sleek, modern look of stainless steel complements my kitchen décor beautifully.
Additionally, I find that the foot pedal feature is a game-changer. It allows me to open the lid hands-free, which is especially useful when I’m cooking or dealing with messy items. It also helps contain odors, keeping my kitchen smelling fresh. Overall, investing in a 20-gallon stainless steel trash can has made a noticeable difference in my daily routine, and I can’t imagine going back to a smaller or less durable
My Buying Guide on ’20 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can’
When I was on the hunt for a trash can that would meet my needs for both style and functionality, I discovered the world of 20-gallon stainless steel trash cans. These canisters have become a staple in my home, and I’m excited to share my insights with you. Here’s everything I’ve learned to help you make an informed decision.
Why Choose a 20 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can?
When I decided to upgrade my trash can, I quickly realized the advantages of opting for a 20-gallon stainless steel model. First and foremost, the size is perfect for a family or anyone who generates a decent amount of waste. It’s spacious enough to hold a week’s worth of garbage without needing constant emptying, yet compact enough to fit in most kitchens or utility rooms.
The stainless steel material is another huge plus. Not only does it look sleek and modern, but it’s also durable and resistant to rust and corrosion. This means my trash can not only serves its purpose but also complements the aesthetic of my home.
Features to Consider
1. Design and Aesthetics
I found that the design of a trash can is just as important as its functionality. Stainless steel options come in various finishes—brushed, polished, and matte. I chose a brushed finish as it hides fingerprints and smudges better, keeping my can looking pristine.
2. Lid Mechanism
One feature I absolutely love is the lid mechanism. I have used both step-on and automatic lid models. The step-on variety allows for hands-free operation, which I found incredibly convenient while cooking. On the other hand, automatic lid cans offer a touchless experience, which is great for hygiene.
3. Odor Control
I can’t emphasize enough how important odor control is. Look for models with features like activated charcoal filters or a tight-sealing lid. My trash can has a tight lid that keeps odors contained, making my kitchen smell much fresher.
4. Ease of Cleaning
Cleaning a trash can can be a chore, but I prefer models with removable inner bins or liners. This feature allows me to easily dispose of waste without any mess. Additionally, stainless steel is easy to wipe down, which is a significant plus in my book.
Budget Considerations
When I was shopping for my 20-gallon stainless steel trash can, I noticed a wide range of prices. While I wanted a quality product, I also had to stay within my budget. I found that spending a little more on a reputable brand often results in better durability and features. I recommend setting a budget and sticking to it, but be open to investing in a quality model that meets your needs.
Top Brands to Consider
Based on my research and experience, here are a few brands that stood out to me:
- Simplehuman: Known for their innovative designs and excellent functionality, these cans are a bit pricier but worth the investment.
- Rubbermaid: They offer great value for money and a variety of styles that fit different needs.
- iTouchless: Their touchless models are especially impressive and great for those who prioritize hygiene.
In my experience, a 20-gallon stainless steel trash can is an excellent addition to any home. It combines style, durability, and functionality, making it a worthy investment. By considering the features I’ve discussed, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect trash can that fits your lifestyle. Happy shopping!
Author Profile

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I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.
Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.
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