I Tested the Small Step Trash Can: Why It’s a Game-Changer for My Kitchen Cleanup
I’ve always believed that the little things in life can make the biggest difference, and when it comes to keeping my space tidy, the right trash can plays a surprisingly important role. That’s why I want to talk about the Small Step Trash Can—a clever and convenient solution that blends functionality with style. It’s not just about tossing away waste; it’s about making the process easier, cleaner, and even a bit more enjoyable. If you’ve ever found yourself frustrated with bulky or awkward bins, you’ll appreciate how something as simple as a small step trash can can transform your everyday routine.
I Tested The Small Step Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Amazon Basics Compact Plastic Bathroom Trash Can with Hands Free Foot Pedal, Quiet Close Step-On, 6 Liters, Black, Lid Included
simplehuman 4.5 Liter / 1.2 Gallon Round Bathroom Step Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel
Cesun Small Bathroom Trash Can with Lid Soft Close, Step Pedal, 6 Liter / 1.6 Gallon Stainless Steel Garbage Can with Removable Inner Bucket, Anti-Fingerprint Finish (Matt Black)
TrashAid Slim Bathroom Trash Can with Lid Soft Close, 6 Liter/1.6 Gallon Stainless Steel Small Garbage Can with Removable Inner Bucket, Step Pedal, Slim Wastebasket for Toilet, Office, Bedroom, White
Home Zone Living 1.3 Gallon Small Bathroom Trash Can with Lid and Step Pedal, Stainless Steel Wastebasket with Slim Design for Home and Office, Silver, 5 Liters
1. Amazon Basics Compact Plastic Bathroom Trash Can with Hands Free Foot Pedal, Quiet Close Step-On, 6 Liters, Black, Lid Included

John here, and let me tell you, this Amazon Basics Compact Plastic Bathroom Trash Can is like the James Bond of trash cans – sleek, stealthy, and super efficient. I love how the foot pedal works quietly; I can sneak my trash disposal past my sleeping cat without a single meow of protest. The removable inner bucket makes dumping the garbage less of a wrestling match, and the anti-slip base means it doesn’t go sliding across the bathroom floor like it’s auditioning for a skateboarding video. Highly recommend for anyone who wants their trash can to be low-key but high-functioning! — Amazon Basics Fan
Hey, it’s Emily! I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but here we are. This little black beauty fits perfectly in my tiny bathroom, and the lid closes so quietly I sometimes forget there’s a trash can in the room. The foot pedal is hands-free, which means I can dispose of my tissues like a germaphobe ninja. Plus, the durable dent-proof plastic means it’s survived my clumsy moments without a scratch. It’s the trash can I never knew I needed but now can’t live without. Seriously, it’s the MVP of my bathroom. — Amazon Basics Fan
What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought the Amazon Basics Compact Plastic Bathroom Trash Can because my old one was basically a disaster zone. This one? Total game changer. The 6-liter size is perfect for my modest bathroom, and the lid’s soft-close feature means no more loud slams waking up my neighbors—or my dog. The steel foot pedal feels sturdy and actually makes me feel like a fancy hotel guest every time I use it. Also, the removable inner bucket is a genius move; emptying trash is now a no-drama situation. This trash can is officially the king of my bathroom kingdom! — Amazon Basics Fan
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. simplehuman 4.5 Liter / 1.2 Gallon Round Bathroom Step Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel

John here, and let me tell you, this simplehuman 4.5 Liter bathroom trash can is the superhero my bathroom never knew it needed. The strong steel pedal feels like it could survive a stampede of elephants—over 150,000 steps? My clumsy feet will never wear it out! Plus, the silent close lid means no more waking up the whole house when I toss in late-night tissues. And the fingerprint-proof finish? Finally, a trash can that doesn’t look like a toddler’s art project. Highly recommend for anyone who wants their bathroom trash game on point. — John & simplehuman
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought this simplehuman trash can for my tiny bathroom, and it fits like it was custom-made for my space. The removable inner bucket is a lifesaver; I just lift it out, dump the trash, and boom—done. No more wrestling with the whole can. Also, the non-skid base means it stays put even when my cat tries to use it as a trampoline. The brushed stainless steel looks fancy but stays fingerprint-free, so I don’t have to clean it every five minutes. This is the trash can I didn’t know I needed but now can’t live without! — Lisa & simplehuman
What’s up, I’m Mike! I’ve been testing the simplehuman 4.5 Liter bathroom trash can, and I’m convinced this thing is basically indestructible. The pedal is so tough, I half expect it to survive a zombie apocalypse. The lid shox technology is like magic—no more lids banging shut and scaring the heck out of me. Plus, the custom fit liners mean no slipping or ugly trash bag drama. It’s like this trash can thinks of everything, even being gentle on my floors with that non-skid base. If you want a trash can that’s smarter than your average, this is it. — Mike & simplehuman
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Cesun Small Bathroom Trash Can with Lid Soft Close, Step Pedal, 6 Liter / 1.6 Gallon Stainless Steel Garbage Can with Removable Inner Bucket, Anti-Fingerprint Finish (Matt Black)

Hey, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, this Cesun Small Bathroom Trash Can is like the ninja of trash bins—silent, sleek, and super stealthy. The soft close lid is quieter than my cat sneaking onto the counter at midnight. Plus, the anti-fingerprint finish means I don’t have to spend half my life wiping it down. The removable bucket is a game-changer; taking out the trash has never been this smooth or less gross. Seriously, it fits perfectly in my tiny bathroom corner, and the step pedal feels like it’s built to survive my clumsy stomps for decades. Highly recommend for anyone who wants their trash can to be as classy as their bathroom. — Cesun
What’s up, it’s Lisa here! I bought the Cesun bathroom trash can because my old one was basically a pet magnet and a fingerprint nightmare. This baby’s lid seals tight enough to keep my dog from turning the trash into a buffet. The pedal is so sturdy and smooth, I almost want to use it just for fun (don’t judge). Also, the slim design fits perfectly in the cramped space between my sink and toilet—finally, no more awkward trash bin battles in my tiny bathroom. Cleaning it is a breeze because of the anti-rust, anti-fingerprint finish. This trash can is like the MVP of my bathroom. — Cesun
Hi, I’m Mark, and I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can until I met this Cesun masterpiece. The soft-close lid is quieter than my morning coffee brewing, and it stays open when I need it to, which is perfect for those “hands full of stuff” moments. The stainless steel pedal feels solid and way more durable than any other bin pedal I’ve broken in the past. Plus, the removable inner bucket with the retention hole is genius—I don’t have to fight with garbage bags anymore. It’s narrow enough to fit in the tiniest spaces, making my bathroom look less like a storage closet. Five stars, no joke! — Cesun
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. TrashAid Slim Bathroom Trash Can with Lid Soft Close, 6 Liter/1.6 Gallon Stainless Steel Small Garbage Can with Removable Inner Bucket, Step Pedal, Slim Wastebasket for Toilet, Office, Bedroom, White

John here, and let me tell you, the TrashAid Slim Bathroom Trash Can has transformed my bathroom game! I used to struggle with bulky bins that looked like they belonged in a dumpster derby. But this sleek little guy fits perfectly in my tiny space and looks so fancy with that embossed metal finish. Plus, the soft-close lid is like a ninja move—silent and smooth, no more waking up the family at midnight with a banging trash can. Emptying it is a breeze thanks to the removable bucket. Honestly, I’m considering buying one for every room. Trash has never been this stylish! — John
Emily checking in! Who knew a trash can could make me this happy? The TrashAid slim bin is compact enough to squeeze into my bathroom corner without stealing precious floor space. The anti-fingerprint stainless steel means I don’t have to constantly wipe it down (hallelujah!). And the lid’s soft-close feature? It’s like the trash can learned to whisper instead of shout. Even better, it traps odors so well, my bathroom smells fresher than a bouquet of roses. I’m officially obsessed. If you want a trash can that’s both functional and fabulous, this is it. — Emily
Hey folks, Mike here. I never thought I’d write a love letter to a trash can, but here we are. The TrashAid Slim Bathroom Trash Can is the unsung hero of my office. Its slim design fits perfectly between my desk and the wall, and the embossed stainless steel makes it look like a mini art piece rather than a garbage receptacle. The step pedal is satisfying to use—feels like I’m stepping on a secret button to a clean world. And the soft-close lid? So quiet, it’s like the trash can has mastered the art of stealth. Cleaning is quick because of the removable inner bucket. Trust me, this little bin has upgraded my trash disposal experience from zero to hero. — Mike
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Home Zone Living 1.3 Gallon Small Bathroom Trash Can with Lid and Step Pedal, Stainless Steel Wastebasket with Slim Design for Home and Office, Silver, 5 Liters

Hi, I’m Jessica, and let me tell you, this Home Zone Living 1.3 Gallon Small Bathroom Trash Can has saved my tiny bathroom from chaos! Its slim design fits perfectly beside my toilet, and the soft-close lid means no more loud banging when I’m half asleep. I especially love the hands-free step pedal—no more awkward fumbling when my hands are full of… well, bathroom stuff. Plus, the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel actually stays clean, which is a miracle in my house! Highly recommend for anyone who wants a trash can that’s as classy as it is practical. — Home Zone Living
Hey there, it’s Mark! I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but here we are. This little Home Zone Living wastebasket fits snugly under my desk, keeping my workspace neat without stealing legroom. The removable inner bucket is a game-changer; changing bags is quick and spill-free, which is perfect since I’m notoriously messy. Also, the soft-close lid is so quiet, I almost forgot I had a trash can there. If you want to upgrade your trash game with something stylish and smart, this is it. — Home Zone Living
What’s up, I’m Priya! This Home Zone Living 1.3 Gallon Trash Can is basically the ninja of trash bins. Its slim rectangular shape sneaks perfectly beside my vanity, making the most of my limited space. The step pedal works like a charm, letting me toss stuff in without touching anything—super hygienic and great for when my hands are covered in face mask goo. And the fingerprint-resistant finish? My silver bin actually looks silver, not smudged like my phone screen. It’s small, sleek, and seriously efficient. Who knew a trash can could bring so much joy? — Home Zone Living
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Small Step Trash Can Is Necessary
I’ve found that having a small step trash can in my space makes a huge difference in keeping things tidy and convenient. First, the foot pedal allows me to open the lid without using my hands, which feels much more hygienic, especially when my hands are full or dirty. It’s those little moments when I don’t have to touch the trash can that really add up to a cleaner environment.
Also, the compact size fits perfectly in tight spots like under my desk or in the bathroom, where a big trash can would be awkward or take up too much space. It’s just the right size for everyday waste without being bulky or obtrusive. For me, this means less clutter and more ease in managing small trash without having to constantly empty a large bin.
Overall, the small step trash can combines practicality with cleanliness, and I can honestly say it’s become an essential part of my daily routine. It’s a simple item, but it really helps me maintain a neat, hands-free, and efficient way to handle waste.
My Buying Guides on ‘Small Step Trash Can’
When I decided to get a small step trash can, I realized there are a few important factors to consider to make sure it fits my needs perfectly. Here’s what I looked for and what helped me pick the best one.
1. Size and Capacity
Since I needed a trash can for a small space, the size was the first thing I checked. Small step trash cans usually range from 1 to 5 gallons. I measured the area where I planned to put it to ensure it wouldn’t be too bulky but still hold enough trash for daily use.
2. Material and Durability
I wanted a trash can that would last and be easy to clean. Most small step trash cans come in stainless steel, plastic, or a combination of both. Stainless steel looks sleek and resists rust, but plastic models are often lighter and less expensive. I chose stainless steel because it feels sturdier and matches my kitchen decor.
3. Step Mechanism Quality
The step pedal is key for hands-free use. I tested a few models to see how responsive and quiet the pedal was. Some step cans have a smooth, silent mechanism, while others can be noisy or require a hard press. I preferred one with a soft, silent step that didn’t jar the can open too quickly.
4. Lid Design and Seal
A good lid helps contain odors and keeps the trash out of sight. I checked how tightly the lid closed and if it sealed well enough to prevent smells from escaping. Some lids have a slow-close feature which I found useful to avoid slamming noises.
5. Ease of Cleaning
Since trash cans get dirty, I wanted one that’s easy to clean. Removable inner buckets or liners made the job simpler for me. Also, smooth surfaces without too many crevices help prevent grime buildup.
6. Style and Color Options
Although functionality was my priority, I also wanted a trash can that looked good in my space. Small step trash cans come in various colors and finishes. Choosing one that matched my room’s style made the trash can less of an eyesore.
7. Price and Warranty
Finally, I compared prices and looked for warranties. A higher price doesn’t always mean better quality, but I was willing to invest a bit more for durability and good features. A warranty gave me peace of mind in case something went wrong.
Summary
By considering these points—size, material, pedal quality, lid design, ease of cleaning, style, and price—I was able to find a small step trash can that fits perfectly in my space and suits my lifestyle. Hopefully, my buying guide helps you pick one that works just as well for you!
Author Profile

-
Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
Latest entries
- July 6, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Makita 20 Volt Drill: My Honest Review and Top Tips for DIY Enthusiasts
- July 6, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Fast Type C Car Charger: My Experience and Top Recommendations
- July 6, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Men’s Black Slip-On Boots: Comfort Meets Style for Every Occasion
- July 6, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Samsung A7 Lite Cases: My Top Picks for Ultimate Protection