Specs are compiled from manufacturer listings and verified buyer reviews and can change over time — please confirm the key details on the product page before buying.
If you’re hunting for a 13-gallon rectangular trash can, you likely want one that fits flush against a wall, hides the bag, and opens without your hands touching anything. The best options in this size balance a sturdy step pedal, a soft-close lid that doesn’t slam, and a removable inner bucket that makes liner swaps painless. This guide compares the top-rated steel and plastic models so you can pick the one that survives real kitchen life.
I’m Mo Min — the founder and writer behind Non Toxic Blog. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.
We’ve paired down the field to the nine most reliable 13 gallon rectangular trash can options, focusing on pedal durability, lid quietness, and how easily each one cleans up after a busy week.
Our Picks at a Glance



How To Choose The Best 13 Gallon Rectangular Trash Can
A 13-gallon rectangular can is the standard workhorse for a family kitchen. It’s big enough to handle a day or two of cooking waste, but its rectangular footprint fits neatly between a cabinet and the wall without wasting floor space like a round bin would.
Pedal and Lid Mechanism
The step pedal gets pressed dozens of times a day, so the pivot quality matters. Look for a wide pedal you can hit without looking, and pair it with a soft-close damped lid. A damper is a small hydraulic or spring arm that lets the lid sink closed slowly instead of slamming.
Shell Material and Weight
The shell is what resists dents, rust, and fingerprints. Brushed stainless steel hides smudges far better than glossy finishes, and a heavier can (think 18 to 21 pounds) is far less likely to tip over when a dog bumps it or a full bag leans against the lid.
Inner Bucket and Bag Fit
A removable inner bucket with side handles makes emptying and wiping down the can genuinely easy. Check whether the bucket has a bag ring or hooks to keep the liner tucked out of sight — this single detail separates a tidy can from one with bags sagging over the rim all week.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Weight | Lid Type | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SONGMICS (B0F93X82T5)★ Best Overall | Best Overall | 14.1 lbs | Soft-Close Pedal | 16.4″ x 14.7″ x 25.5″ | Amazon |
| KUKPremium Pick | Premium Pick | — | Silent Close | 16.7″ x 14″ x 26.4″ | Amazon |
| ELPHECOTop Performer | Top Performer | 21.5 lbs | Soft-Close Pedal | 18″ x 16″ x 29″ | Amazon |
| Glad 2-Pack | Best Value | — | Step-On | 18″ x 14.7″ x 25″ | Amazon |
| ComfyCorner | Compact Choice | 14.2 lbs | Quiet Close | 16.8″ x 12.3″ x 25.5″ | Amazon |
| SONGMICS (B0DMMBMG11) | Design Pick | 14.8 lbs | Soft-Close | 17.6″ x 13.7″ x 24″ | Amazon |
| iTouchless Sensor | Hands-Free Tech | 8.6 lbs | Motion-Sensor | 12.7″ x 10.8″ x 27.3″ | Amazon |
| Garvee | Premium Pick | 18.1 lbs | Soft-Close | 16.73″ x 14.65″ x 25.98″ | Amazon |
| Amazon Basics | Budget Champion | 12.4 lbs | Soft-Close | 16.73″ x 14.65″ x 25.87″ | Amazon |
In-Depth Reviews
1. SONGMICS Trash Can, 13 Gallon (50 L), Stainless Steel, Soft-Close Lid
Our pick — over 4.5★ from 550+ verified ratings; the strongest balance of quality and price.
A dog-proof steel can that resists tipping, slamming, and fingerprints.
The soft-close hinge and 14.1-pound steel body make it quiet and dog-resistant. When the pedal opens the lid, the soft-close arm catches it on the way down so you never hear a slam in the kitchen.
At 16.4″L x 14.7″W x 25.5″H, the footprint is compact enough to hug a wall and not jut into a walkway, yet it still swallows standard 13-gallon bags without sagging. The inner bucket lifts out with two side handles, which is the detail that makes daily emptying feel less like a chore.
The review pages sum it up with a single line: “Dog-proof: lid can’t be snout-opened, heavy/sturdy, won’t tip.” Buyers also consistently praised the packaging — thick box, foam, reinforced edges — so the can arrives dent-free rather than looking like it survived a tumble in a warehouse.
What Wins People Over
- Soft-close lid that never slams or traps fingers
- Heavy 14.1-lb steel base resists tipping from pets
- Removable inner bucket with side handles for easy bag swaps
- 15 bin liners included so it works the day it arrives
The Trade-Off
- Shell is on the thinner side — an occasional unit has arrived with a dent
- Plastic lid rather than full steel, which some buyers notice
Reach for it if: you want a quiet, pet-resistant workhorse that fits flush against a wall and looks tidy doing it.
Look elsewhere if: you plan to kick it hard daily — a heavier gauge shell will shrug off that abuse better.
2. KUK 13 Gallon/50L Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can
A brushed-steel can with an odor-blocking lid for a fresh kitchen.
The odor-blocking lid traps smells inside, keeping the kitchen fresh. It pairs that with a rust-resistant pedal rated for 150,000+ presses, which means you’re unlikely to wear it out before the finish fades.
At 16.7″L x 14″W x 26.4″H, it’s slightly taller than the SONGMICS, putting the lid at a comfortable hip height. The lid also holds open at a 90° angle, which is a quiet lifesaver when you’re doing a big clean and need both hands free to scrape plates.
Buyers report it “works good and closes very nicely,” and one owner still uses it daily in an RV — a good sign for durability on the road where things get jostled. The included 20 custom-fit bags take the guesswork out of liner shopping for the first month.
Standout Perks
- Odor-blocking sealed lid keeps smells contained
- Pedal tested for 150,000+ uses
- Lid stays open at 90° for hands-free tasks
- 20 included bags sized to the bucket
Honest Caveats
- Lid closure draws mixed feedback — some units don’t seal fully
- A small number report durability issues after a few months
Who it suits: cooks who want smell control and a pedal that outlasts the can’s finish.
Who it doesn’t: anyone who needs a guaranteed airtight seal — there’s variance in how tightly individual lids seat.
3. ELPHECO Kitchen Trash Can with Lid 13 Gal Stainless Steel
A 21.5-pound steel can that survived two moves dent-free.
The brute-force difference here is the weight: 21.5 pounds, a full 52% heavier than the 14.1-pound SONGMICS above. That heft translates directly into a shell that shrugs off bumps, and owners confirm it — one moved twice with theirs and it came through dent-free.
It’s also the tallest and widest of the steel picks at 18″L x 16″W x 29″H, so it dominates a corner rather than tucking into a narrow gap. The 90° stay-open lid is the standout convenience, letting you work with both hands during meal prep without holding the pedal down.
The included 20 trash bags are the weak link — owners mention they’re thin and tear easily, so plan to swap in your preferred 13-gallon brand early. The brushed finish hides fingerprints well, and the quiet soft-close gets consistent praise in the reviews.
Why It Earns Its Spot
- 21.5-lb steel shell resists dents and tipping
- 90° stay-open lid for hands-free cleaning
- Survived two household moves without damage per owners
- Removable inner bucket makes bag swaps easy
What to Know
- Included bags are thin and prone to tearing
- Larger footprint — verify your kitchen gap can fit 18″ of width
Choose it when you want the most physically substantial can in this lineup and have the floor space to give it.
Pass on it if your kitchen gap is tight — the 18-inch width is the widest here.
4. Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection, 13 Gallon, Black, 2 Pack
Two odor-fighting cans for the price of one premium steel bin.
The math is simple: you get two 13-gallon cans in a modern black finish, so a kitchen and a garage or two bathrooms can both get upgraded in one order. Each measures 18″ wide, 14.7″ deep, and 25″ high, which is a roomy footprint for a plastic can.
The Clorox Odor Protection is molded into the lid, so it lasts the can’s lifetime instead of fading. Interior bag rings keep the liner tucked neatly inside instead of slouching over the rim, and the foot pedal gives you hands-free operation.
Customers note the cans run larger than expected and let you fully fill a 13-gallon bag before changing it — which saves bags over time. The honest caveat: the foot pedal can struggle when the can is overstuffed, and curious cats have been known to pry the lid open.
The Appeal
- Two cans for the price of one — instant multi-room coverage
- Built-in Clorox odor protection lasts the can’s lifetime
- Bag rings keep liners hidden and secure
- Hands-free step pedal on both units
The Catch
- Pedal can jam when the can is packed too full
- Not pet-proof — a clever cat can flip the lid
Best for: outfitting multiple rooms on a budget where odor control matters more than a steel shell.
Think twice if you need a pet-proof seal — this one is open season for a persistent snout.
5. ComfyCorner 13.2 Gal Kitchen Trash Can with Step-On Pedal
A slim 12.3-inch depth that slides into the tightest kitchen gaps.
The defining number here is the 12.3-inch width — noticeably more compact than the SONGMICS at 14.7 inches, making this the pick for galley kitchens and narrow laundry rooms. Despite the slim profile, the 13.2-gallon capacity stays close to the rest of the field.
The 410 stainless steel shell uses a wire-drawing process that resists smudges, and the detachable ABS inner barrel simplifies liner swaps. A lid-lock feature lets you keep the lid open without holding the pedal — handy when you’re unloading groceries one-handed.
Owners praise the soft-close lids for working reliably and note a quick soap-and-water wipe cleans up spots easily. The one shortcoming: no removable lid liner, so when gunk gets on the underside of the lid, it’s harder to scrub clean than a snap-out insert would be.
Smart Details
- Compact 12.3″ depth fits narrow spaces
- 5.9″ wide pedal is easy to hit without looking
- Lid-lock keeps it open hands-free
- Detachable ABS inner barrel for easy cleaning
Limits
- No removable lid liner — lid underside is awkward to clean
- One owner noted an initial smell that needed wiping down
Grab it for small kitchens and tight corners where every inch of floor width counts.
skip it if you want a snap-out lid liner for easy deep cleaning.
6. SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 13-Gallon (50 L), Stainless Steel, Soft Close
A shorter, minimal steel can with non-slip feet that anchor it against pet bullies.
This second SONGMICS entry is built for a different buyer: it’s shorter at 24 inches tall and slimmer at 13.7 inches wide, sliding under lower countertops where the taller models won’t fit. The minimalist metallic-silver finish disappears into modern decor, which is exactly why the design gets the most praise.
The base carries non-slip pads that grip the floor, making it tougher for a rambunctious dog to tip over mid-search. The lid opens to a 90° stay-open position after a manual nudge, and the back carry handle makes relocating the bin between rooms painless.
Buyers love that the included liner bags fit perfectly over the insert bucket and stay hidden — no visible bag overhang. The weight is a solid 14.8 pounds, and the soft-close mechanism earns consistent “durable” verdicts even after months of use.
Why It Stands Out
- Shorter 24″ height fits under low countertops
- Non-slip base pads resist pet tipping
- Back handle for easy relocation
- Bags hide completely inside the bucket
Consider This
- Smaller footprint means slightly less interior volume feel
- Stay-open requires a manual nudge after the pedal
Ideal for modern kitchens with low counters and a design-first eye.
Not for anyone who wants the tallest possible can — this one sits lower at 24 inches.
7. iTouchless 13 Gallon Sensor Kitchen Trash Can with Pet Lock
A wave-activated lid and mechanical pet lock that keep curious noses out.
The signature feature here is the motion sensor — wave your hand or step near and the lid opens automatically, no pedal required. The taller 27.3-inch profile means you don’t bend down to reach it, which is a genuine relief during meal prep when your hands are full or messy.
The mechanical pet and child lock secures the lid firmly, so dogs and toddlers can’t pry it open. The AbsorbX carbon filter neutralizes food odors naturally, keeping the kitchen fresh without artificial fragrances.
The big trade-off is power: the sensor runs on 4 D batteries that last up to 18 months, and the lid mechanism is the most complex part here. Some reviewers point out the sensor is overly sensitive, opening at a passing glance, and a rare unit has had the lid stop working — usually fixed by a power cycle or a replacement from customer service.
Modern Perks
- Touchless motion-sensor opening
- Mechanical pet and child lock
- AbsorbX carbon filter neutralizes odors naturally
- Up to 18-month battery life on 4 D cells
Real Trade-Offs
- Electronics can fail — some lids stop working over time
- Sensor can be overly sensitive to passing motion
- Requires battery changes, no cord included
Reach for it if you want zero-touch operation and have pets that need a locked lid.
Look elsewhere if you prefer simplicity — a manual pedal has fewer parts to fail than a sensor.
8. Garvee 13 gal / 50 L Metal Kitchen Trash Can with Lid
A powder-coated steel shell engineered to survive 150,000 pedal stomps.
The industrial-steel pedal is rated for 150,000+ steps, and the ABS hinge for 300,000+ cycles. Those numbers mean the moving parts are the most tested in this lineup — built for a household that runs the can hard every single day.
At 18.1 pounds, it’s the second-heaviest pick, and the white powder-coated finish resists fingerprints and scratches while wipes clean in seconds. The interior bucket swallows 32 water bottles or 70 soda cans, maximizing capacity without a bulky footprint.
Owners describe the soft-close lid as “silent slow-close” even nine months in, and the lid glides open to 80° and locks at 95° for stay-open use. The recurring note is cosmetic: some units arrive with minor shipping dents, but the function itself earns top marks.
Built to Last
- Pedal rated for 150,000+ steps
- Hinge rated for 300,000+ cycles
- Powder-coated finish resists fingerprints and scratches
- Ergonomic rear handle for easy lifting
Watch For
- Some units arrive with minor cosmetic dents
- Bag stability draws mixed feedback — a liner ring helps
Choose it for heavy daily use where pedal and hinge durability matter more than looks.
pass on it if minor arrival dents would bother you — shipping isn’t always gentle.
9. Amazon Basics LARGE Trash Can, 13.2 Gallon (50L)
The dependable budget steel can that’s held up for years in real kitchens.
The value story here is durability over flash: the brushed stainless steel exterior shrugs off smudges, and the heavy-duty plastic inner bucket lifts out for cleaning. Shoppers say theirs has lasted over two years with zero lid mechanism issues — a strong track record for an entry-priced steel can.
At 13.2 gallons and 16.73″L x 14.65″W x 25.87″H, it matches the footprint of pricier premium picks while coming in at a friendlier price tier. The stay-open lid and carry handle make daily use practical, and the large foot lever is easy to hit even in slippers.
The one maintenance note from owners: use the correct bag size and tuck the liner away from the hinge, or the lid can struggle to close fully. Also, avoid spraying harsh cleaners inside the lid — one owner found the interior rusted from Lysol exposure.
Why It’s a Value Pick
- Brushed steel resists smudges and fingerprints
- Removable inner bucket for easy cleaning
- Large foot lever is easy to operate
- Proven track record lasting 2+ years per owners
What to Watch
- Lid needs correct bag placement to close fully
- Interior can rust if sprayed with harsh cleaners
Best for buyers who want a proven steel can without paying a premium for the name.
Not for anyone who wants a full 360° sealed lid — the mechanism is good, not airtight.
Understanding the Specs
Soft-Close vs. Stay-Open Lids
A soft-close lid uses a damper (a small hydraulic arm) to lower itself slowly, eliminating the slam that annoys everyone in the house. A stay-open lid adds a latch that holds the lid at 90° so you can toss trash or clean with both hands free. Some cans, like the KUK and ELPHECO, do both — the pedal opens, and a manual nudge locks it open.
Pedal Lifespan Ratings
When a spec says the pedal is “tested for 150,000+ uses,” it means the manufacturer ran the mechanism repeatedly to simulate years of stomping. A rating like that signals the pivot and spring are built from sturdier materials than a cheap foot lever. The Garvee even rates its hinge at 300,000+ cycles, which suggests the moving parts are the most durable in this category.
FAQ
Will a 13-gallon rectangular can fit under my kitchen counter?
What size trash bags fit a 13-gallon rectangular can?
How do I stop the trash can from tipping over with pets around?
What does a soft-close lid actually do?
Is a fingerprint-resistant finish worth paying for?
How long do the batteries last in a sensor trash can?
Can I use any 13-gallon bag, or do I need the brand’s own liners?
Is a stainless steel can better than a plastic one?
How do I keep the inside of the can from smelling?
What’s the difference between a step pedal and a motion sensor?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most buyers, the best 13 gallon rectangular trash can winner is the SONGMICS because it nails the essentials — a quiet soft-close lid, a pet-proof steel body, and a footprint that fits flush against the wall. If you want maximum heft and a stay-open lid for cooking, grab the ELPHECO. And for a budget-friendly two-pack that covers multiple rooms with built-in odor protection, the Glad 2-Pack is the one to reach for.
How We Picked
We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.
Sources & Methodology
Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of August 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.
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