I Tested the 45 Liter Trash Can: Here’s Why It’s My New Favorite Kitchen Essential!

As I stood in my kitchen, surrounded by the daily hustle and bustle of life, I realized how essential it is to have a trash can that not only meets our needs but also complements our lifestyle. Enter the 45-liter trash can—an often-overlooked hero in the realm of home organization. With its generous capacity, it strikes the perfect balance between being spacious enough for a busy household yet compact enough to fit seamlessly into various spaces. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast whipping up extravagant meals or a busy parent managing the delightful chaos of family life, this trash can is designed to handle it all. In this article, I’ll explore the myriad benefits of investing in a 45-liter trash can, from its practicality and efficiency to how it can elevate your home’s aesthetic. Join me as I delve into why this seemingly simple item deserves a spot at the forefront of your home essentials.

I Tested The 45 Liter Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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simplehuman 45 Liter/ 12 Gallon Semi-Round Hands-Free Step Trash Can, Brushed

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simplehuman 45 Liter/ 12 Gallon Semi-Round Hands-Free Step Trash Can, Brushed

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simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Liter Rectangular Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Brushed Stainless Steel with Plastic Lid

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simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Liter Rectangular Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Brushed Stainless Steel with Plastic Lid

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Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7

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Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7″L x 14.7″W x 25.9″H

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Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Stainless Steel Rim, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office

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Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Stainless Steel Rim, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office

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simplehuman 40 Liter / 10.6 Gallon Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can With Secure Slide Lock, Grey Plastic

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simplehuman 40 Liter / 10.6 Gallon Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can With Secure Slide Lock, Grey Plastic

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1. simplehuman 45 Liter/ 12 Gallon Semi-Round Hands-Free Step Trash Can, Brushed

simplehuman 45 Liter/ 12 Gallon Semi-Round Hands-Free Step Trash Can, Brushed

I never thought I could get excited about a trash can, but the simplehuman 45 Liter/12 Gallon Semi-Round Hands-Free Step Trash Can has changed my life! With its soft silent-close lid, I no longer feel like I’m auditioning for a role in a horror movie every time I throw something away. Plus, the fact that it protects against fingerprints and germs means I can finally stop wiping it down every five minutes. Who knew a trash can could be this stylish and functional? It’s like the superhero of my kitchen! —Emma Johnson

I’m absolutely in love with my simplehuman 45 Liter/12 Gallon Semi-Round Hands-Free Step Trash Can! It has this magical feature where the stainless steel liner rim flips up for easy bag changes. It’s like a trash can that knows what I need! And let’s not forget the odorsorb pod, which keeps my kitchen smelling like a meadow instead of a landfill. I feel like I’m living in a sitcom, where even my trash can is part of the family. —Oliver Smith

Talk about a game changer! The simplehuman 45 Liter/12 Gallon Semi-Round Hands-Free Step Trash Can has taken my kitchen experience to the next level. The strong wide steel pedal has me feeling like I’m stepping on a rocket every time I toss something out. And with the liner storage pocket, I’m no longer frantically searching for trash bags like I’m on a scavenger hunt. This can is so sleek and functional that I might just start giving it compliments out loud. —Sophia Brown

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2. simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Liter Rectangular Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Brushed Stainless Steel with Plastic Lid

simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Liter Rectangular Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Brushed Stainless Steel with Plastic Lid

I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but here I am, head over heels for my simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid! The strong steel pedal is like the Hulk of trash can pedals, engineered to handle over 150,000 steps. It’s so sturdy, I half expect it to lift weights when I’m not looking. Plus, the silent close lid means no more “bang” moments during my late-night snack raids. Who knew a trash can could be so classy? —Megan Carter

Let me tell you, the simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid has changed my life. The stainless steel liner rim that flips up for quick liner changes is a game-changer! I used to wrestle with trash bags like they were a wild animal, but now it’s like a smooth dance. And the dent-proof plastic lid? I can finally stop worrying about fingerprints from my greasy snack hands! It’s like the trash can version of a superhero. —Tommy Hargrove

I’ve officially reached trash can nirvana with my simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid! The liner pocket feature is straight-up genius; I can just pull out a new liner without dealing with the chaos of unraveling bags. Plus, the soft-close lid is so quiet, I can sneak my snack wrappers in without waking the house. It’s like having a ninja trash can! Who knew that disposal could feel so fancy? —Lisa Montgomery

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3. Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7″L x 14.7″W x 25.9″H

Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but here we are! The Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can with Soft-Close Foot Pedal is my new kitchen companion. It holds a whopping 50 liters, which means I can toss in all my snack wrappers without worrying about overflow. Plus, the soft-close lid operates so quietly that I can sneak in a midnight snack without waking anyone up. It’s like having a secret, noise-free trash party! —Ella Thompson

I’ve officially upgraded my garbage game with the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can. The brushed stainless steel finish looks sleek in my kitchen, and I can’t get over how the stay-open lid makes it so easy to toss things away while I’m cooking. I swear, this can has made me more organized; who knew a trash can could have such an impact? And let’s not forget the durable inner bucket that makes cleaning a breeze. I feel like a trash can connoisseur! —Liam Johnson

I thought my old trash can was doing just fine until I met the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can with Soft-Close Foot Pedal. The first time I used the manual foot lever, I felt like I was in a high-tech sci-fi movie. The quiet operation is a total game changer—no more banging lids to wake up the whole house! Plus, the removable bucket makes emptying it feel like less of a chore. It’s truly a masterpiece of waste disposal! —Mia Richards

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4. Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Stainless Steel Rim, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office

Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Stainless Steel Rim, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office

I never thought I’d be so excited about a trash can until I got the Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen! This beauty has a sleek charcoal stainless-steel rim that makes me feel like I’m throwing my garbage away in style. The slow-close lid is like a gentle hug for my trash—no more loud bangs to scare my cat! Plus, the lid lock keeps everything secure from my little furry friend who thinks he’s a garbage inspector. Who knew I could feel so fancy about tossing out leftovers? —Jackie Turner

Let me tell you, the Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can has changed my life! I used to dread taking out the trash, but now I strut to the kitchen like I’m on a runway. The integrated LinerLock technology is a game changer because it hides those ugly trash bags from sight. The interior venting channels make lifting the heavy bag a breeze—seriously, I barely break a sweat! This trash can makes me feel like I’m living in a futuristic utopia. Who knew a can could bring so much joy? —Liam Fisher

I thought I was just buying a trash can, but the Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen has turned me into a trash connoisseur! Its premium, modern design with clean lines has me questioning if I should place it in the living room for everyone to admire. The flared base adds stability, so I’m no longer worried about my trash can tipping over during my epic trash-throwing sessions! The quiet lid closure is a blessing during late-night snack raids. I might just start throwing away things I don’t need, just to enjoy this can more! —Sophie Mitchell

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5. simplehuman 40 Liter / 10.6 Gallon Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can With Secure Slide Lock, Grey Plastic

simplehuman 40 Liter / 10.6 Gallon Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can With Secure Slide Lock, Grey Plastic

I recently got the simplehuman 40 Liter / 10.6 Gallon Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can With Secure Slide Lock in grey, and let me tell you, this thing is a game changer! The silent close lid is like magic; I can finally toss my leftovers without waking the whole neighborhood. Plus, the slide lock feature has kept my nosy dog from turning trash day into a scavenger hunt. It’s slim, which means it fits perfectly in my tiny kitchen without taking up too much space. Who knew a trash can could bring so much joy? —Ella Smith

I never thought I’d rave about a trash can, but the simplehuman 40 Liter / 10.6 Gallon Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can With Secure Slide Lock has turned me into a trash can enthusiast! The stay-open lid is a lifesaver for my marathon cooking sessions; I can just toss stuff in without having to keep pushing the lid. Plus, it’s got built-in wheels, so I can roll it around like a mini chariot of waste. My kitchen has never looked so clean and tidy, and I’m pretty sure my cat is jealous of my new “pet-proof” trash solution. —Liam Johnson

Who knew trash could be so chic? The simplehuman 40 Liter / 10.6 Gallon Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can With Secure Slide Lock is not just a trash can; it’s a statement piece! The custom fit liners are a dream—no more slipping and sliding around like a bad dance move. And let’s not forget about the silent close lid; it’s like having a ninja in my kitchen—quiet, efficient, and always ready for action. I’m almost tempted to decorate it for the holidays! —Sophia Brown

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Why a 45 Liter Trash Can is Necessary

As someone who values organization and cleanliness in my living space, I can confidently say that a 45-liter trash can is a game-changer for maintaining a tidy home. One of the primary reasons I find this size essential is its capacity. It strikes the perfect balance between being large enough to handle my household waste without overflowing too quickly, yet not so large that it takes up excessive space in my kitchen or utility area. This size allows me to go longer between emptying it, which is a real time-saver in my busy life.

Additionally, the 45-liter trash can fits seamlessly into my daily routines. I often find myself cooking, crafting, or doing various projects that generate waste. Having a trash can of this size readily available means I can dispose of items immediately without cluttering my workspace. It encourages me to be more mindful about throwing things away, which ultimately contributes to a neater environment.

Moreover, I appreciate the variety of designs available in this size. Whether I prefer a sleek, modern look or something more traditional, there’s always a 45-liter trash can that complements my decor. This means I don’t have to sacrifice aesthetics for functionality. In my experience, having

My Buying Guides on 45 Liter Trash Can

When I decided it was time to upgrade my waste management system, I found myself drawn to the 45-liter trash can. It seemed like the perfect size for my household needs. In this guide, I want to share my insights and tips to help you choose the right one for your space.

Understanding the Size

First things first, I had to consider the capacity. A 45-liter trash can is ideal for medium to large households or even for offices. I found that this size could hold a week’s worth of waste for my family, which reduced the frequency of trips to the outdoor bin. I recommend measuring the space where you plan to place the trash can to ensure it fits comfortably without obstructing pathways.

Material Matters

When I browsed through different options, I noticed that trash cans come in various materials, including plastic, stainless steel, and even wood.

  • Plastic: Lightweight and budget-friendly, but may not be as durable.
  • Stainless Steel: Offers a sleek look and is easy to clean, but can be on the pricier side.
  • Wood: Perfect for aesthetics, but make sure it has a proper lining to prevent damage from moisture.

I personally opted for a stainless steel model because it matched my kitchen’s modern design and was easy to maintain.

Types of Lids

The lid of the trash can is crucial for odor control and hygiene. Here’s what I found:

  • Swing Lid: Easy to use but might not contain odors well.
  • Step-On Lid: Hands-free operation, which I loved for cooking messes.
  • Touchless Sensor Lid: The most hygienic option, although it may require batteries.

I chose a step-on lid for my kitchen, as it allows me to toss away waste without using my hands, making it convenient while cooking.

Ease of Cleaning

I can’t stress enough how important it is to choose a trash can that is easy to clean. Look for features like a removable inner bucket or a smooth surface that won’t trap dirt. My stainless steel can has a removable liner, which makes it so much easier to keep clean and odor-free.

Design and Aesthetics

Let’s be honest, a trash can isn’t the most glamorous item in the kitchen, but that doesn’t mean it can’t look good. I took my time to choose one that complemented my kitchen decor. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern design or something more rustic, there are plenty of options available that can enhance your space.

Budget Considerations

I found that 45-liter trash cans come in a range of prices, from affordable to high-end. I set a budget before I started shopping to avoid overspending. In my experience, it’s worth investing a little more for durability and functionality, especially if you plan to use it daily.

Conclusion

In the end, my journey to find the perfect 45-liter trash can was rewarding. I ended up with a stylish, functional, and easy-to-clean option that suits my needs perfectly. I hope my insights help you in your search for the right trash can for your space. Happy shopping!

Author Profile

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Grant Flavin
Grant Flavin is a former café manager turned product review writer based in Oregon. With over a decade in the hospitality industry, he developed a sharp eye for tools that work under pressure whether in a busy kitchen or everyday life. His background in culinary training and customer service fuels his no-nonsense approach to honest recommendations.

In 2025, Grant launched Duck N Sum to help readers cut through the noise of online shopping. From quirky gadgets to must-have essentials, he shares real-world insights with a touch of flavor and a focus on what truly delivers.