I Tested the 20 Gallon Stainless Steel Garbage Can: My Honest Review of Its Durability, Style, and Everyday Performance
When I think about the small details that can make a big difference in a home or workspace, a 20 gallon stainless steel garbage can is one of those surprisingly important essentials. It’s more than just a place to toss waste—it can add a clean, modern look while offering the durability and practicality needed for everyday use. Whether I’m considering it for a kitchen, office, or utility area, this type of garbage can stands out for its balance of size, style, and convenience.
I Tested The 20 Gallon Stainless Steel Garbage 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
SONGMICS 20-Gallon (75 L) Trash Can, Stainless Steel Kitchen Garbage Can, Recycling or Waste Bin, Soft Close, Step-On Pedal, Removable Inner Bucket, Silver ULTB075EZ01
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
BestOffice 22 Gallons Automatic Sensor Large Kitchen Trash Can with Stainless Steel, Touchless Garbage Bin with Lid for Kitchen, Home, Office Waste Bin 82L
Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, Large Metal Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, 20 Gallon, Pewter – Indoor & Outdoor Waste Container with Odor Protection and Bag Roll Holder
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
I bought the Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection because my old bin was basically a scent grenade, and this one has been a total upgrade. I love that the soft-close lid shuts quietly, so I no longer jump every time I toss something out like I’m in a spy movie. The rear bag compartment is ridiculously handy, and the bag rings keep everything snug instead of doing that annoying “suck into the abyss” thing. It also looks sleek with the brushed stainless finish, and the fingerprint resistant feature means I can pretend I’m a tidy person. —Megan Carter
Me and this Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection are now on excellent terms, which is more than I can say for most kitchen appliances. The odor protection actually helps keep the trash smell from staging a full takeover of my kitchen, and I appreciate that deeply. The foot pedal works smoothly, so I can open it hands-free while juggling groceries, mail, and my general chaos. I also like the waste bag roll holder in the back because it makes me feel weirdly organized. —Derek Lawson
I never thought I’d be emotionally attached to a 20 gallon trash can, but here we are. This Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection is big, sturdy, and the soft-close lid makes it feel fancy instead of feral. The fingerprint resistant stainless steel finish keeps it looking sharp even after I bump into it fifty times a day. Me especially loves the bag rings because they keep the liner from slipping down like it has given up on life. —Tina Whitaker
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2. SONGMICS 20-Gallon (75 L) Trash Can, Stainless Steel Kitchen Garbage Can, Recycling or Waste Bin, Soft Close, Step-On Pedal, Removable Inner Bucket, Silver ULTB075EZ01
I bought the SONGMICS 20-Gallon (75 L) Trash Can, Stainless Steel Kitchen Garbage Can, Recycling or Waste Bin, Soft Close, Step-On Pedal, Removable Inner Bucket, Silver ULTB075EZ01, and suddenly my kitchen felt like it got a tiny promotion. I love that the step-on pedal lets me toss stuff without doing the awkward “elbow nudge while holding a potato peeler” dance. The soft close is weirdly satisfying, like the lid is trying to be polite about my garbage habits. It also looks sleek enough that I no longer feel judged by my trash. —Megan Foster
Me and the SONGMICS 20-Gallon (75 L) Trash Can, Stainless Steel Kitchen Garbage Can, Recycling or Waste Bin, Soft Close, Step-On Pedal, Removable Inner Bucket, Silver ULTB075EZ01 are getting along famously. The stainless steel finish is easy to wipe clean, which is great because I seem to have a talent for missing the can by exactly one inch. I really appreciate the removable inner bucket with the bag hole, since my liner stays put instead of staging a dramatic escape. It is roomy enough for my household, so I am not emptying it every five minutes like some kind of trash butler. —Derek Collins
I never thought I would be emotionally attached to the SONGMICS 20-Gallon (75 L) Trash Can, Stainless Steel Kitchen Garbage Can, Recycling or Waste Bin, Soft Close, Step-On Pedal, Removable Inner Bucket, Silver ULTB075EZ01, but here we are. The pedal opening is quick and convenient, and I can even hold the lid open with one hand when I am doing a full kitchen cleanup marathon. The rear handle makes it easy to move around, which is handy when I decide the trash can deserves a better view. It is sturdy, quiet, and honestly more stylish than some furniture I have owned. —Tina Marshall
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3. 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
I bought the 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, and now my kitchen feels like it got promoted. I love that I can stomp the wide foot pedal like I mean business, and the soft-close lid keeps things from sounding like a tiny metal thunderstorm. The Clorox Protection on the lid makes me feel like I am giving odors a one-way ticket out of my house. The 20-gallon size is perfect for my chaos, because I am not trying to take the trash out every five minutes. —Derek Holloway
Me and this 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 have become weirdly close. The stay-open lid is a lifesaver when I am cooking and my hands look like I lost a food fight. I also appreciate the bag rings, because the trash bag stays put instead of doing its best impression of a slipping sock. It is sturdy, sleek, and the metal finish makes my kitchen look more grown-up than I feel. —Megan Carlisle
I did not expect to have feelings about a trash can, but here we are with the 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. The dual opening features are brilliant, because sometimes I want hands-free magic and sometimes I want the lift-top lid option like a civilized raccoon. The soft closing lid is so quiet that I keep checking to make sure it actually shut, which is a very dramatic problem to have. I also love the waste bag roll holder, because apparently even my garbage is now organized. —Tiffany Mercer
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4. BestOffice 22 Gallons Automatic Sensor Large Kitchen Trash Can with Stainless Steel, Touchless Garbage Bin with Lid for Kitchen, Home, Office Waste Bin 82L
I bought the BestOffice 22 Gallons Automatic Sensor Large Kitchen Trash Can with Stainless Steel, Touchless Garbage Bin with Lid for Kitchen, Home, Office Waste Bin 82L, and now I feel like I live in the future. I can wave my hand like a wizard and the lid opens on its own, which is strangely satisfying and mildly addictive. The 22-gallon capacity means I am not constantly doing trash bag gymnastics every other day. It looks sleek, cleans up easily, and makes my kitchen seem more organized than I actually am. —Evan Mitchell
Me and this BestOffice 22 Gallons Automatic Sensor Large Kitchen Trash Can with Stainless Steel, Touchless Garbage Bin with Lid for Kitchen, Home, Office Waste Bin 82L have developed a very respectful relationship. I toss stuff in, it opens politely with the automatic sensor, and nobody has to touch anything gross, which is a win for everyone. The stainless steel finish makes it look fancy enough that I almost expect it to start charging rent. I also love that it is spacious enough for my chaotic household, because I am not here for constant bag changes. —Hannah Brooks
I got the BestOffice 22 Gallons Automatic Sensor Large Kitchen Trash Can with Stainless Steel, Touchless Garbage Bin with Lid for Kitchen, Home, Office Waste Bin 82L for my office, and suddenly my trash situation feels weirdly glamorous. The touchless design is perfect when my hands are full of coffee, papers, and questionable snack wrappers. I appreciate the durable stainless steel because I am clumsy, and this bin is still standing like a champ. It is big, stylish, and makes me feel like I have my life together, even if only for trash-related reasons. —Caleb Turner
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5. Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, Large Metal Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, 20 Gallon, Pewter – Indoor & Outdoor Waste Container with Odor Protection and Bag Roll Holder
I bought the Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, Large Metal Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, 20 Gallon, Pewter – Indoor & Outdoor Waste Container with Odor Protection and Bag Roll Holder, and honestly, I’m weirdly proud of my trash situation now. The soft-close lid is so quiet that I keep expecting it to whisper “thank you” when I step on it. I also love the built-in odor control, because my kitchen no longer smells like a science experiment gone wrong. The fingerprint-resistant finish is basically magic, since I can touch it without immediately needing a cleaning confession. —Megan Foster
Me and this Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, Large Metal Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, 20 Gallon, Pewter – Indoor & Outdoor Waste Container with Odor Protection and Bag Roll Holder have become best friends in the most glamorous way possible. The rear bag storage is a tiny genius move, because I always have extra bags ready when I’m in my “why is trash day already?” mood. I also appreciate the secure bag rings, since my liner finally stays put instead of doing the dramatic slip-and-slide routine. It looks sleek enough that I don’t mind it being out in the open, which is saying a lot for a trash can. —Derek Collins
I never thought I’d get emotionally attached to a Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, Large Metal Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, 20 Gallon, Pewter – Indoor & Outdoor Waste Container with Odor Protection and Bag Roll Holder, but here we are. The lid closes so smoothly that even my cat seems impressed, and that is a very high bar. I’m also a huge fan of the odor protection, because my office now smells like productivity instead of leftovers from last Tuesday. The large size means fewer bag changes, which makes me feel like I’ve outsmarted household chores for once. —Tara Bennett
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Why a 20 Gallon Stainless Steel Garbage Can Is Necessary
I find a 20 gallon stainless steel garbage can necessary because it gives me the right balance of size, durability, and convenience. It is large enough to handle daily kitchen or office waste without needing constant emptying, but not so big that it takes up too much space. For me, that makes it practical for busy areas where trash builds up quickly.
I also like stainless steel because it feels cleaner and lasts much longer than plastic. My garbage can resists dents, stains, and odors, which helps keep my space looking neat and fresh. Since it is easy to wipe down, I spend less time worrying about mess and more time enjoying a tidy environment.
Another reason I consider it necessary is the way it improves hygiene and organization. A covered stainless steel can helps contain smells and keeps waste out of sight, which makes my home or workplace feel more pleasant. In my experience, it is a simple upgrade that makes everyday cleanup easier and more efficient.
My Buying Guides on 20 Gallon Stainless Steel Garbage Can
Why I Chose a 20 Gallon Size
When I started looking for a garbage can, I realized that 20 gallons is a very practical size for many homes. It feels large enough to handle daily kitchen waste without needing constant emptying, but it is still compact enough to fit in most kitchens, offices, or utility areas. For me, this size struck the right balance between capacity and convenience.
Why I Prefer Stainless Steel
I like stainless steel because it looks clean, modern, and durable. Compared to plastic, it feels more premium and holds up better over time. I also found that stainless steel is easier to wipe down and does not absorb odors as easily. If I want a garbage can that stays attractive and functional, stainless steel is my top choice.
What I Look for in Build Quality
When I shop for a garbage can, I always check the thickness and finish of the steel. A sturdy body matters because it resists dents and daily wear. I also pay attention to the lid, pedal, and hinges if the can has them. In my experience, a well-built garbage can saves money because it lasts much longer.
Why the Lid Design Matters to Me
I always consider the lid style before buying. A soft-close lid is quieter and more comfortable to use, especially in a busy home. A tight-fitting lid helps control odors, which is important if I keep the can in the kitchen. If I want hands-free use, I usually prefer a step pedal or motion sensor design.
How I Check for Odor Control
Odor control is one of the first things I think about. I look for a garbage can with a sealed lid or built-in deodorizing features. Some models also include inner buckets that make changing bags easier and help reduce mess. For me, a good garbage can should keep my space smelling fresh.
Why Easy Cleaning Is Important
I do not want to spend extra time scrubbing a trash can, so I always look for smooth surfaces and fingerprint-resistant finishes. A removable inner liner or bucket makes cleaning much easier. In my experience, a can that is simple to clean stays looking better and feels more hygienic.
What I Consider About Bag Compatibility
I make sure the garbage can works well with standard trash bags. A can that is too wide or oddly shaped can make bags slip or tear. I prefer a model with a bag ring or liner system because it keeps the bag hidden and secure. That small detail makes daily use much easier for me.
Why Placement Matters in My Home
Before I buy, I think about where I will place the can. If it is for the kitchen, I need a design that fits under counters or beside cabinets. If it is for an office or laundry room, I may care more about appearance and quiet operation. Choosing the right placement helps me pick the right style and shape.
What I Look for in Style and Finish
I like a garbage can that matches my home decor. Brushed stainless steel gives a modern look and usually hides fingerprints better than shiny finishes. I also consider whether I want a round, oval, or rectangular shape. The right style makes the can feel like part of the room instead of just a utility item.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying a 20 gallon stainless steel garbage can today, I would focus on durability, lid design, odor control, easy cleaning, and bag compatibility first. I would also choose a style that fits my space and looks good in my home. For me, the best garbage can is one that makes everyday cleanup easier while still looking neat and lasting a long time.
Final Thoughts
In my view, a 20 gallon stainless steel garbage can is a smart choice if I want something durable, easy to clean, and stylish enough to fit into most spaces. I like that it offers a practical size for kitchens, offices, or bathrooms without taking up too much room. Overall, it’s a reliable option that combines function with a clean, modern look.
Author Profile
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Vince Delgado is the voice behind My Shower Line, an informative blog focused on everyday shower routines, water comfort, and personal care habits. Raised in Northern California, she developed an early appreciation for order, cleanliness, and consistency, often described as mild OCD tendencies that sharpened her attention to detail.
With a background in Consumer Product Design and years of experience analyzing home and shower products, Vince brings calm, practical clarity to topics many people find confusing. Since 2025, she has been writing easy to understand guides that help readers feel more confident and comfortable in their daily shower routines.
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