Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection
4.2Editor score
Generous 20-gallon capacity
Hands-free foot pedal opening
Clorox odor protection
In this guide
A garbage can with foot pedal makes routine waste disposal cleaner and more convenient by opening the lid without hand contact. The best models combine a responsive pedal, reliable lid movement, useful capacity, secure liner support, and enough odor control to suit busy kitchens, offices, bedrooms, and other indoor spaces.
This guide compares ten pedal-operated bins using the specifications and product information supplied for each model. It examines capacity, exterior material, lid behavior, odor-control features, liner management, dimensions, and practical details such as stay-open lids, removable buckets, bag storage, and included bags.
Each review shows which use case a product is best suited to, along with its strongest features and honest trade-offs. Ratings reflect the supplied listing information, while features and availability can change over time. Prices also change frequently, so compare current listings before making a final purchase decision.
Top 3 Picks for Best Garbage Can with Foot Pedal
Amazon Basics Large Trash Can
4.4Editor score
13.2-gallon removable bucket
Soft-close stay-open lid
Smudge-resistant steel exterior
SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter Soft-Close Trash Can
4.5Editor score
Built-in odor filter holder
Removable liner system
Fingerprint-resistant steel finish
Top 10 Best Garbage Can with Foot Pedal in 2026 Compared
The table below compares all ten pedal trash cans by capacity, construction, lid system, and the practical features that most affect daily use. It is designed to make differences in footprint, odor control, liner handling, and convenience easy to identify before buying.
ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
Best Budget
Glad 20-Gallon Clorox Can
20-gallon plastic capacity
Foot pedal lid opening
Clorox odor protection
Interior bag rings
4.2Editor score
Editor's Choice
Amazon Basics 13.2-Gallon Can
13.2-gallon steel capacity
Soft-close stay-open lid
Removable heavy-duty bucket
Manual foot lever
4.4Editor score
Best Premium
PayLessHere 13-Gallon Steel Can
13-gallon steel capacity
Removable inner bucket
Tight-fitting pedal lid
Scratch-resistant surface
4.5Editor score
Glad 12-Gallon Slim Can
12-gallon steel capacity
Narrow rectangular profile
Soft-close stay-open lid
Clorox odor protection
4.4Editor score
Rubbermaid Premier Series III
13-gallon charcoal capacity
Controlled slow-close lid
Pedal-activated lid lock
Concealed liner system
4.0Editor score
simplehuman 13-Gallon Semi-Round
13-gallon plastic capacity
Secure slide-lock lid
Semi-round flat-back shape
Steel pedal construction
4.5Editor score
KdbK 13-Gallon Stainless Can
13-gallon steel capacity
Damper-controlled soft close
Removable ABS inner bucket
Twenty bags included
4.4Editor score
SIMPLI-MAGIC 13.2-Gallon Can
13.2-gallon steel capacity
Quiet soft-close mechanism
Built-in filter holder
Removable plastic liner
4.5Editor score
KUK 13-Gallon Stainless Can
13-gallon steel capacity
Odor-locking sealed lid
Stay-open quiet-close lid
Twenty custom-fit bags
4.5Editor score
Glad 20-Gallon Steel Can
20-gallon steel capacity
Built-in odor protection
Quiet soft-close lid
Rear bag storage
4.6Editor score
1. Glad 20-Gallon Clorox Can – Generous Capacity on a Budget
Glad 20-Gallon Clorox Can
20-gallon plastic body
Foot-pedal lid opening
Clorox odor protection
Securing interior bag rings
The Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection combines a roomy 20-gallon plastic body with a straightforward foot-pedal mechanism. Its supplied rating is 4.2, and the main appeal is practicality: households that generate substantial waste can use a standard large liner without constantly replacing it. The lid is treated with Clorox Odor Protection to help limit odors at their source.
Pros
- Very generous capacity
- Hands-free disposal
- Built-in odor treatment
- Tidy liner support
- Useful for large spaces
Cons
- Plastic body is less premium
- No soft-close feature listed
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The pedal opens the lid without requiring users to touch the bin, which is helpful while cooking, cleaning, or disposing of potentially messy waste. Interior bag rings keep a liner from slipping farther into the can and help tuck away slack. At 20.25 inches wide, 16 inches deep, and 26.25 inches high, however, this is a substantial bin rather than a compact option for a narrow cabinet gap.
The main trade-off is the plastic construction, which is practical but does not offer the refined visual finish or apparent durability associated with stainless steel. Soft-close operation is not listed, so buyers should not expect the same controlled descent as on the rubber, steel, or damped-lid competitors. The odor feature and capacity nevertheless make this a compelling choice when function matters more than décor.
Choose this model for large families, busy kitchens, shared offices, or any room that needs a high-capacity bin without paying for a large metal body. It is particularly suitable for buyers prioritizing usable volume, hands-free operation, odor treatment, and secure liner placement. For those willing to accept a larger plastic footprint, it delivers the most practical balance in this list.
Capacity for High-Volume Waste
The 20-gallon volume is the defining advantage of this model. It suits larger households and shared spaces where a 13-gallon liner would need to be changed more frequently.
Hands-Free Odor Management
Pedal operation keeps hands away from the lid, while the treated lid adds a targeted defense against common kitchen odors without requiring a separate filter.
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2. Amazon Basics 13.2-Gallon Can – Best All-Around Pedal Bin
Amazon Basics 13.2-Gallon Can
13.2-gallon steel body
Soft-close stay-open lid
Removable heavy-duty bucket
Carry-handle bucket system
The Amazon Basics Large Trash Can delivers a balanced combination of useful capacity, clean styling, and well-thought-out waste handling. Its 4.4 supplied rating reflects a broadly appealing design that works in a home or office. The 13.2-gallon, 50-liter size is large enough for regular kitchen waste without taking up the space demanded by a 20-gallon model.
Pros
- Useful 13.2-gallon capacity
- Removable inner bucket
- Soft-close lid stays open
- Smudge-resistant finish
- Carry handle simplifies removal
Cons
- No odor filter mentioned
- Odor control is less explicit
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Its brushed stainless-steel exterior has a smudge-resistant finish, and the removable heavy-duty plastic inner bucket includes a carry handle. The lid can remain open for repeated disposal, while a manual foot lever operates a soft-close mechanism intended to reduce opening and closing noise. These details make it convenient during cooking, meal preparation, and longer cleaning tasks.
The most important limitation is that odor control is not presented as a specialized feature. The tight lid may manage ordinary waste, but the product does not claim a treated lid, built-in odor-lock technology, or a replaceable filter. Buyers sensitive to persistent smells may need to pay closer attention to bag fit, cleaning frequency, and the types of waste stored inside.
This is a strong recommendation for anyone seeking a balanced pedal bin with a modern exterior, removable liner, and quiet operation. It works especially well in kitchens where hands-free disposal and easy bag changes matter. Rather than specializing in extreme capacity or advanced odor filtration, it delivers a versatile set of features that many households can use every day.
A Bucket Built for Routine Changes
The removable inner bucket and integrated carry handle make filling and replacing the liner more manageable. This is particularly useful when the can is positioned where pulling the entire outer body would be inconvenient.
Quiet Operation for Shared Rooms
A lid that can stay open during repeated use and close softly afterward reduces both the need to hold the lid and the noise associated with abrupt movement.
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3. PayLessHere 13-Gallon Steel Can – Practical Steel Design
PayLessHere 13-Gallon Steel Can
13-gallon stainless body
Removable removable-lid bucket
Tight-fitting pedal lid
Scratch-resistant finish
The PayLessHere 13-Gallon Trash Can is a straightforward steel model with a 4.5 supplied rating. It combines a removable inner bucket, a removable lid, and a foot pedal in a design intended to simplify waste disposal. The 13-gallon size aligns with common kitchen liners, which makes setup straightforward for most users.
Pros
- Strong 4.5 supplied rating
- Removable inner bucket
- Hands-free foot operation
- Smooth easy-clean surface
- Versatile indoor placement
Cons
- No soft-close mechanism stated
- No dedicated odor filter stated
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Its tight-fitting lid is intended to reduce the escape of odors, while pedal operation eliminates direct contact with the lid. The stainless-steel exterior is described as watertight, scratch-resistant, and easy to wipe with a damp cloth. That smooth surface also makes the model practical for offices, bedrooms, recycling areas, kitchens, and other spaces where regular cleaning is necessary.
The design does not explicitly advertise a soft-close lid, stay-open hinge, replaceable odor filter, or specialty bag system. It should therefore be judged primarily as a durable, easy-clean pedal bin rather than a feature-loaded model. The removable lid and bucket are useful, but buyers who prioritize whisper-closing movement or advanced odor filtration may find other options more aligned with their needs.
Choose this bin for its straightforward balance of stainless appearance, hand-free operation, and easy maintenance. It is a sensible recommendation for standard household trash collection, especially where a 13-gallon liner and a wipe-clean exterior are priorities. Its rating and practical feature set make it a strong contender even without the more specialized closures found on some premium competitors.
Everyday Cleaning Simplified
The smooth stainless-steel surface can be wiped down with a damp cloth, while the removable bucket allows the part most exposed to spills to be cleaned separately.
Flexible Indoor Placement
Its understated form works in kitchens, offices, bedrooms, and recycling areas. The stated tight fit also helps contain common refuse odors without adding a separate accessory.
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4. Glad 12-Gallon Slim Can – Space-Saving Pedal Storage
Glad 12-Gallon Slim Can
12-gallon steel capacity
Narrow space-saving profile
Soft-close stay-open lid
Waste-bag roll holder
The Glad Slim Trash Can is designed around the challenge of fitting a pedal bin into a tight kitchen or office. It holds 12 gallons, or 45 liters, and uses a narrow rectangular steel body rather than the broader profile of many standard cans. Its supplied rating is 4.4, indicating a well-regarded option for shoppers who prioritize footprint over maximum capacity.
Pros
- Slim profile saves space
- Quiet controlled lid movement
- Clorox odor protection
- Securing bag rings
- Useful waste-bag holder
Cons
- Less capacity than 20-gallon models
- Waste-bag holder limits flexibility
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The stainless-steel exterior has a fingerprint-resistant finish, and the lid includes a soft-close mechanism and stay-open function. Clorox Protection is built into the design to help block unwanted odors. Heavy-duty bag rings secure the liner and reduce fall-through, while a waste-bag roll holder adds another practical feature for kitchens where bag storage is limited.
Its 12-gallon capacity is smaller than the 13- and 13.2-gallon options, and considerably smaller than the two 20-gallon models. Buyers generating heavy waste may need more frequent liner changes. The integrated waste-bag roll holder is convenient, although users who prefer storing different bag styles or keeping the rear area completely open may find that design less flexible.
This is a strong fit for narrow spaces, compact kitchens, home offices, and any room where saving width matters. It offers a more complete package than a basic pedal bin through its stay-open lid, soft close, odor treatment, bag rings, and bag holder. It is one of the most space-conscious choices in the roundup without giving up important daily-use features.
Designed for Narrow Spaces
The slender profile makes this easier to position beside cabinetry or in a compact work area. It provides a practical alternative to deep semi-round models when horizontal space is limited.
Several Forms of Liner Support
Bag rings stabilize the liner and keep excess material tucked away, while the waste-bag roll holder provides a convenient place to keep compatible bags close at hand.
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5. Rubbermaid Premier Series III – Refined Features and Pedal Lock
Rubbermaid Premier Series III
13-gallon charcoal capacity
Wide stainless-accent pedal
Controlled slow-close lid
Integrated liner-lock system
The Rubbermaid Premier Series III is a 13-gallon step-on can designed around modern appearance, controlled lid movement, and secure liner handling. Its supplied rating is 4.0, which is the lowest among the ten listed products, but the feature set is notably refined. Charcoal stainless-steel accents on the rim and pedal give the bin a more decorative finish.
Pros
- Modern charcoal styling
- Wide durable pedal
- Lid can lock open
- Slow-close mechanism
- Concealed bag edges
Cons
- Lower supplied rating
- Odor control not specifically featured
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A wide pedal is designed for easy access and durability, while the lid closes slowly to reduce noise. More unusually, a discreet lock can keep the lid open for extended tasks or closed to help keep pets and children from accessing the contents. LinerLock technology secures the bag and conceals its edges, and interior venting channels are designed to release heavy bags more easily.
The main caveat is that the product information does not highlight dedicated odor control, and its supplied rating is lower than those of the other picks. The closed lid can provide some containment, but buyers especially concerned with persistent kitchen smells should consider a model with a treated lid or filter holder. The flared base is also likely to occupy more floor area than a slim design.
Choose the Premier Series III when appearance, a wide pedal, slow closure, and a locking lid matter. It is particularly suitable for households that want help keeping the lid closed around pets or children and for users who dislike visible liner edges. Its combination of refined details makes it a strong option for a visible kitchen or multipurpose room.
A Lock for Longer Tasks
The lid lock keeps the container open during meal preparation or cleaning, removing the need to hold the lid with one hand. It can also remain closed to discourage access by pets and children.
Cleaner Liner Management
LinerLock secures the bag and hides its edges, while venting channels are intended to make lifting out a full liner easier and reduce trapped air.
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6. simplehuman 13-Gallon Semi-Round – Compact Pedal Design
simplehuman 13-Gallon Semi-Round
13-gallon black plastic body
Flat-back semi-round shape
Secure sliding lid lock
Recycled plastic construction
The simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can has a 4.5 supplied rating and a space-conscious shape. Its flat back sits against a wall, while the rounded front reduces visual bulk and the depth it occupies in a kitchen compared with many rectangular bins. The black body is made with 75% post-consumer recycled plastic.
Pros
- High 4.5 supplied rating
- Space-conscious semi-round body
- Pet-resistant slide lock
- Quiet slow-close action
- Long-rated steel pedal
Cons
- Plastic exterior less premium
- No dedicated odor filter stated
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Its main functional distinction is the secure slide lock, which holds the lid shut against curious pets. The steel pedal is engineered for 150,000 steps, and patented motion control produces a slow, silent close. The product is also designed to use Code P custom-fit liners, which are intended to fit without bunching or slipping, although compatible liners are a separate consideration.
The recycled plastic body is durable but less visually substantial than a stainless-steel alternative, and no dedicated odor filter or treated lid is identified. The listed 13-gallon capacity is standard rather than extra large. Buyers should also check liner availability and fit, since the tight custom-fit design may not accommodate every generic bag as easily as a more adjustable system.
This model is a good choice for kitchens where floor space is limited, quiet closing is important, or pets might otherwise access food waste. Its long-rated pedal and slow-close mechanism support frequent use, while the semi-round profile keeps it visually restrained. The slide lock and high supplied rating make it particularly appealing for organized, design-conscious households.
A Smaller Kitchen Footprint
The semi-round front and flat rear use wall space efficiently. That makes the can easier to place in kitchens where a deep rectangular bin would restrict movement or cabinet access.
Quiet, Long-Term Pedal Design
The pedal is engineered for 150,000 steps, and the motion-control lid closes slowly and silently. These features support the expectation of repeated everyday operation.
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7. KdbK 13-Gallon Stainless Can – Soft Close and Included Bags
KdbK 13-Gallon Stainless Can
13-gallon brushed steel body
Bi-force soft-close damper
Removable ABS inner bucket
Twenty garbage bags included
The KdbK 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can offers a practical mix of damped movement, stay-open functionality, removable-bucket convenience, and included liners. Its supplied rating is 4.4. The brushed stainless-steel surface is described as anti-fingerprint and easy to clean, while ABS components form the handle and base for a more contemporary two-material construction.
Pros
- Controlled soft-close mechanism
- Lid stays open upright
- Twenty bags included
- Removable durable inner bucket
- Fingerprint-resistant finish
Cons
- No dedicated odor filter stated
- Specific dimensions are not provided
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A bi-force damper allows automatic or manual closing and gently draws the lid shut at a controlled pace. The lid can also stand open at 90 degrees, which is helpful during cooking, cleaning, and other tasks that require repeated disposal. The pedal has been tested for 200,000 uses according to the product information, and the inner ABS bucket is designed to withstand impact. Twenty suitable garbage bags are included.
Although the lid can reduce odor escape, no specific odor-control technology is claimed beyond general closure. The included bags are useful, but standard 13-gallon bags can also be used, which makes the model less dependent on proprietary liners. Detailed external dimensions are not supplied, so buyers who need to fit it into a precisely measured alcove should check the current listing.
Choose this can for shoppers who value quiet closing, a lid that remains open during chores, and a removable bucket that is easy to access. The included bags add convenience for immediate use, while the standard-liner compatibility broadens future options. It is a versatile home-office and kitchen recommendation, especially for users who dislike abrupt or loud lid movement.
Soft Close Without Interrupting Work
The damper slows the lid's descent to reduce noise and help prevent pinched fingers. Users can also close it manually while retaining the same smooth movement.
Useful From the First Use
Twenty compatible bags are included, reducing the need for a separate purchase. The removable inner bucket also allows the liner to be changed without manipulating the entire outer body.
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8. SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter Soft-Close Can – Premium Odor-Filter Features
SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter Soft-Close Can
13.2-gallon steel capacity
Built-in filter holder
Removable plastic liner
Stay-open lid lock
The SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close Trash Can stands out with a sleek stainless-steel exterior and a built-in odor filter holder. Its supplied rating is 4.5. The 13.2-gallon capacity gives it a standard large footprint, while the soft-close mechanism and metal foot pedal are designed for quiet, hands-free operation.
Pros
- Premium stainless-steel styling
- Built-in odor filter holder
- Removable liner and lock
- Quiet gentle lid close
- Fingerprint-resistant finish
Cons
- No filter cartridge included
- Trash bags sold separately
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Its most distinctive feature is the removable built-in filter holder. Although no filter cartridge is included and the listing notes that bags are sold separately, the system offers a more advanced route to odor management than models that depend only on lid closure. A removable plastic liner and stay-open lid lock make bag changes and cleaning easier, and the fingerprint-resistant finish should remain presentable with routine wiping.
The principal trade-off is the absence of included accessories. New owners may need to purchase compatible bags and a suitable odor filter, while the built-in system also adds another component to maintain. Buyers looking for a simple, self-contained package may prefer models that include bags or emphasize lid treatment instead. The steel body also carries greater visual weight than a compact plastic bin.
This is the premium choice for shoppers who want refined appearance, quiet operation, and a dedicated place for odor-filtering media. It fits well in a modern kitchen, office, dorm room, or bathroom where the bin remains visible. For odor-sensitive users willing to supply the appropriate filter, the integrated holder makes this can more adaptable than a conventional pedal bin.
A More Active Odor Strategy
The built-in filter holder gives users a dedicated place to add compatible odor-filtering material. It complements the fitted lid without replacing basic practices such as removing waste and cleaning the liner regularly.
Premium Appearance with Practical Access
The smudge-resistant steel finish coordinates with modern appliances, while the removable liner and stay-open lock simplify cleaning and repeated disposal during busy periods.
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9. KUK 13-Gallon Stainless Can – Feature-Packed Everyday Value
KUK 13-Gallon Stainless Can
13-gallon brushed steel body
Odor-locking sealed lid
Quiet stay-open lid
Twenty bags included
The KUK 13 Gallon/50L Stainless Steel Step Pedal Kitchen Trash Can combines a 4.5 supplied rating with a broad set of practical features. Its 13-gallon size is familiar and widely useful, while the brushed stainless-steel body is described as resistant to fingerprints, water, and stains. That makes it suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, or offices where the bin is frequently touched.
Pros
- Strong 4.5 supplied rating
- Sealed odor-locking design
- Heavy-duty tested pedal
- Removable bucket and bag hooks
- Twenty bags included
Cons
- Specific dimensions are not provided
- No separate replaceable filter stated
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The pedal opens the lid without touching the can and is stated to have been tested for more than 150,000 uses. Quiet damping prevents abrupt slamming, and the lid stays open at 90 degrees for extended disposal or bucket cleaning. A detachable plastic inner bucket includes built-in bag hooks to keep liners from slipping, and twenty custom-fit garbage bags are included.
Odor control comes from the sealed, odor-blocking lid rather than a separately replaceable filter. That can be effective in ordinary use, but persistent odors from food waste may still require prompt bag changes and liner cleaning. The product information does not provide external dimensions, so exact fit should be confirmed, particularly in narrow kitchen plans where the body is positioned under a counter.
Choose the KUK model for a well-equipped standard-capacity bin that does not require immediate accessory purchases. It is an attractive option for buyers who value included bags, quiet movement, a removable bucket, and claimed pedal durability at the same time. The sealed lid adds useful odor containment, making this a versatile choice for a busy household or shared room.
Useful Details at Initial Setup
Twenty custom-fit bags are included, and the inner bucket has hooks to help keep the liner in place. Together, these details make the can ready for use while reducing liner movement.
Odor Control Through Sealed Closure
The tight, sealed lid is designed to trap common trash smells. Users should still remove overfilled liners and clean the bucket because closure alone cannot prevent every odor.
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10. Glad 20-Gallon Steel Can – Large Capacity with Odor Protection
Glad 20-Gallon Steel Can
20-gallon steel capacity
Built-in lid odor protection
Rear waste-bag storage
Quiet soft-close lid
The Glad Stainless Steel Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection has the highest supplied rating in this roundup at 4.6. It pairs that strong reception with a substantial 20-gallon capacity and a pewter stainless-steel exterior. It is aimed at larger kitchens, offices, and shared spaces where reducing the frequency of liner changes is important.
Pros
- Highest supplied rating
- Very large 20-gallon capacity
- Steel exterior and soft close
- Integrated rear bag storage
- Tidy secure bag rings
Cons
- Large footprint may limit placement
- No removable inner bucket stated
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Odor protection is built into the lid and frame to help prevent smells from escaping. A rear compartment stores extra trash bags and makes them accessible from either side during a change. Integrated bag rings hold the liner securely and conceal excess material, while the fingerprint-resistant finish helps preserve a polished appearance.
The quiet, controlled soft-close mechanism is another meaningful advantage, particularly in shared or quiet rooms. The trade-off is size: a 20-gallon steel can requires considerably more floor space than the standard 13-gallon options or the slim 12-gallon model. A removable inner bucket is not stated, so cleaning the bottom and changing liners may be less convenient than on bucket-equipped designs.
Choose this model when large capacity, odor treatment, quiet closure, and integrated bag storage are the main priorities. It is particularly useful for high-traffic environments where a smaller can would be emptied several times each day. Among the 20-gallon choices, it offers the more polished metal construction and a higher supplied rating, making it an attractive option for a visible kitchen or office.
High Capacity for Busy Spaces
The 20-gallon volume reduces how often a liner must be replaced, which is valuable in active kitchens, offices, and other high-traffic areas with substantial waste.
Odor Control and Bag Storage
Protection built into the lid and frame targets escaping odors, while the rear compartment keeps replacement bags close without allowing loose rolls to clutter the room.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Garbage Can with Foot Pedal
The right pedal bin depends on available space, waste volume, odor sensitivity, cleaning habits, and the importance placed on appearance. Comparing the following factors before shopping can prevent a capacity mismatch, awkward footprint, or disappointing closure system.
Capacity and Waste Volume
Choose enough capacity for typical waste without sacrificing valuable floor space. Remember that a large capacity can become inconvenient if it is difficult to lift or remove when full.
Footprint and Placement
Measure the intended area and leave enough space to operate the pedal and remove the liner. A can that fits only when pushed tightly against a wall may still be inconvenient to use.
Lid Closure and Noise
Prioritize a soft-close lid if noise is a concern, and choose a stay-open lid if you regularly add several items at once. A locking lid can offer added control around children and pets.
Odor Control
If odors are a major concern, choose a treated lid, sealed closure, or filter-holder system. Also plan to remove overly full bags and wipe the bucket and lid regularly.
Liner and Bucket System
Prefer a removable bucket for frequent cleaning or a simple hook-and-ring system for standard liners. Check whether replacement bags are included before buying.
Exterior Material and Maintenance
Choose steel for a polished, coordinated appearance and plastic for a lighter visual or practical alternative. Select a finish that is easy to wipe down in your intended location.
Pet and Child Considerations
Treat a locking lid as an added safeguard, not a substitute for supervision. Position the bin safely if pets or young children are likely to interact with it.
Included Accessories
Confirm whether bags, filters, and other liners are included. If compatible accessories are easy to obtain, choose the system that best matches your cleaning and odor-control routine.
How to Use and Care for Your Garbage Can with Foot Pedal
Place the can on a firm, level floor with enough clearance for the pedal to move through its full range. Position it near the waste source, but avoid blocking cabinet doors, walkways, or appliance access. Fit the liner over any internal rim, hooks, or bag rings and tuck excess material inside so it does not interfere with the lid. On models with a removable bucket, secure the liner in the bucket before placing it back in the outer body.
To open the can, press the foot pedal with the ball of the foot and keep pressure long enough for the lid to reach its intended position. On a stay-open model, let the lid remain upright while adding waste. For models without that feature, keep one hand near the lid while using the other to place an item inside. Once the load is complete, remove the bag, carefully tie or close it, and replace it with a fresh liner.
Care starts with regular emptying and cleaning. Wipe the lid, rim, pedal, and interior with a damp cloth, using mild cleaner appropriate for the listed materials. Remove residue from the inner bucket and let all parts dry before reassembly. Replace the bag before it becomes overfilled, clean away spills promptly, and change or activate the odor filter according to its own instructions. Periodic cleaning is especially important for odor control and keeps the pedal and lid mechanism operating smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size garbage can with foot pedal is best for a kitchen?
A 12- to 13.2-gallon model is the most common choice for a household kitchen because it balances usable capacity with a manageable footprint. Larger 20-gallon cans are better for busy kitchens, offices, and shared spaces that generate substantial waste. The best size also depends on how often you want to empty the liner and how much floor space is available.
Is a soft-close lid important in a garbage can?
A soft-close lid improves everyday comfort by reducing abrupt movement and helping prevent pinched fingers. It is especially useful in quiet homes, apartments, and offices. A stay-open function offers a separate benefit because it allows several items to be discarded without holding the lid, so models combining both features are often the most flexible during cooking and cleaning.
How do I reduce odors from a pedal trash can?
Start by choosing a model with a tight seal, treated lid, or built-in filter holder, then remove the bag before it becomes overfilled. Cleaning the inner bucket, lid, rim, and bag rings is essential because residue can produce smells even when the can has odor-control features. Avoid washing the pedal mechanism directly and use only a lightly damp cloth on the electrical or mechanical components.
Can I use ordinary trash bags in these cans?
Most 13-gallon models are designed to accept common 13-gallon liners, but you should confirm the dimensions and attachment method in the current listing. Some products include custom-fit bags or are optimized for proprietary liners, such as the simplehuman Code P system. Models with bag rings or hooks are usually flexible, while a close-fitting custom system may require a specific bag size.
Should I choose a stainless-steel or plastic pedal bin?
Stainless steel generally provides a modern appearance, while plastic can be practical for very large capacities and straightforward cleaning. Both materials require attention to the lid, rim, and interior, where residue collects. Choose the finish and capacity that suit your space and cleaning habits rather than assuming one material is automatically more durable in every application.
What capacity is best for a large household or office?
A 20-gallon bin is often more suitable for a large household or high-traffic office because it holds more waste between changes. The trade-offs are a larger footprint and potentially greater difficulty moving the bin when full. A 13-gallon model may still be appropriate if the container is easy to roll or remove and is emptied more frequently.
How do I keep a pedal trash can smelling fresh?
Empty it regularly, replace the liner before waste presses against the bottom, and clean the bucket and lid at least periodically. Food residue, liquid, and moisture can cause odors faster than an ordinary liner. A model with Clorox protection, an odor-locking seal, or a replaceable filter adds another layer of control but does not replace sanitation.
Is a locking pedal bin safer for children and pets?
A locking lid can help prevent a child or pet from opening a bin containing food waste, provided the lock is engaged and the pedal is not easy for them to reach. The simplehuman slide lock and Rubbermaid lid lock are examples of this approach. Adult supervision and sensible placement remain necessary, especially in homes with young children.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Garbage Can with Foot Pedal
The Amazon Basics 13.2-Gallon model is the most versatile all-around choice because it combines a removable bucket, a carry handle, a stay-open soft-close lid, and a smudge-resistant steel exterior. The Glad 20-Gallon Clorox model offers the strongest combination of budget practicality and high capacity, while the SIMPLI-MAGIC 13.2-Gallon can is the premium option for shoppers who want a built-in odor-filter holder and refined finish.
Prioritize capacity that matches your waste volume, then confirm the footprint, liner system, lid behavior, and cleaning requirements. A removable bucket is valuable for frequent maintenance, a stay-open lid helps during extended chores, and a locking mechanism can improve control around pets and children. Those features should be weighed alongside whether odor treatment, quiet closure, or included bags matter most to your household.
Ratings, product details, accessory availability, and prices can change, so check the current listing before purchasing. Confirm dimensions, liner compatibility, included bags, and filter requirements against your available space. With that final check, you can select a pedal trash can that remains convenient, clean, and appropriately sized for daily use.