Stainless steel 13-gallon kitchen trash cans outperform plastic models in durability and odor resistance, while plastic cans win on initial cost and scratch resistance.
Your kitchen trash can lives under the sink or in a corner, and it touches every meal you prep. Choosing between stainless steel and plastic for that 13-gallon bin means picking between a long-term workhorse and a budget-friendly replacement item. One wrong choice and you’re scrubbing odors out of porous plastic or polishing fingerprints off a dented steel surface. This comparison breaks down the real-world differences so you buy the right can the first time.
What Makes Stainless Steel the Premium Pick?
Stainless steel trash cans offer superior durability and odor containment, making them the top choice for long-term kitchen use. The material’s non-porous surface resists absorbing food smells and wipes clean with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
Models like the itouchless 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Round White Stainless Steel Sensor Kitchen Trash Can include an odor filter and fingerprint-proof stainless steel body. The KOHLER K-20940 step can features a similar fingerprint-resistant finish. Both fit standard 13-gallon bags and stand roughly 24 to 28 inches tall.
The trade-off is dent potential. Drop a heavy can of tomatoes onto the side, and you may see a permanent dimple in the steel. Maintaining the brushed finish also takes occasional effort—harsh cleaners can dull the surface.
Why Plastic Remains the Practical Default
Plastic 13-gallon trash cans cost less upfront and resist dents, scratches, and the kind of everyday abuse metal can’t shrug off. The Rubbermaid 13 Gal. White Spring-Top Plastic Indoor Trash Can (Model FG5L5806WHT) is a solid example—its one-touch lid springs open and seals tightly to trap smells.
The catch is odor retention. Plastic surfaces absorb food juices and smells over time, especially in warm kitchens. Deep scratches become permanent homes for bacteria and odors that bleach and scrubbing can’t fully remove. Most plastic cans need replacement after a few years of heavy use, while steel cans can last a decade or more with proper care.
Stainless Steel vs Plastic 13 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can: Key Differences
The table below compresses the real-world differences between the two materials across the factors that matter most in a kitchen.
| Feature | Stainless Steel | Plastic |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | High — dent-resistant but not dent-proof | Moderate — scratches and cracks over time |
| Odor Containment | Superior — non-porous surface | Poor — absorbs odors into plastic |
| Cleaning | Easy with mild detergent and damp cloth | Easy but scratches are permanent |
| Maintenance | Occasional polishing; avoid harsh cleaners | Low maintenance; replace when scratched |
| Fingerprint Resistance | Varies by model (itouchless and KOHLER are fingerprint-proof) | Not an issue on plastic |
| Average Lifespan | 8–15 years with care | 3–5 years before replacement |
| Price Range | $60–$150+ | $15–$40 |
| Best For | Odor-sensitive kitchens, long-term use | Budget buyers, rental kitchens, kids’ rooms |
How Material Choice Affects Odor and Cleaning
Stainless steel repels smells because its smooth, non-porous surface leaves nothing for odor molecules to stick to. A quick wipe with mild detergent handles most messes. Plastic, by contrast, develops micro-scratches during normal use where food residue and bacteria collect. Even thorough cleaning may not eliminate the sour smell that lingers after a forgotten trash bag leak.
Food & Wine’s trash can testing confirms steel units clean faster and stay fresher between washings.
Top Recommended Models for Each Material
Both materials have standout models worth considering. Below are the most reliable options based on current availability and user feedback.
| Model | Material | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| itouchless 50L Sensor Can | Stainless steel + ABS lid | Touchless sensor, odor filter, fingerprint-proof |
| KOHLER K-20940 Step Can | Stainless steel | Fingerprint-resistant, hands-free step operation |
| BestOffice Touchless Can | Stainless steel | Motion sensor, easy-clean surface, indoor use |
| Rubbermaid FG5L5806WHT | Plastic | Spring-top lid, odor seal, budget-friendly |
| UnoClean HLSS13R | Plastic with steel step | Smudge-resistant, plastic insert for bag hold |
Do You Really Need Touchless or Step Operation?
Sensor and step models are worth the extra money if you cook often or want to keep hands clean while handling raw meat or sticky ingredients. A touchless or step-operated can costs $20–$70 more than a basic manual lid, but the convenience is significant during active meal prep.
Plastic step cans exist, but the step mechanism itself is often the first failure point regardless of material. Steel step cans generally last longer because the pedal assembly is attached to a sturdier frame. For a deep dive into the best options across all styles, check our tested roundup of top 13-gallon kitchen trash cans.
Final Checklist: Which Material Fits Your Kitchen?
Make the call based on these three questions:
- Do odors bother you? If yes, go stainless steel — plastic will eventually smell no matter how well you clean it.
- Is this a long-term kitchen? Steel pays for itself over 8+ years; plastic makes sense for rentals or temporary spaces.
- Budget upfront? Under $40 means plastic; over $60 means stainless steel with better longevity.
A stainless steel can with a fingerprint-proof finish and odor filter is the right buy for most kitchens. The itouchless sensor model hits that sweet spot. If budget dominates, the Rubbermaid spring-top plastic can handles the basics well for years until deep scratches send it to the curb.
FAQs
Can you use any 13-gallon bag in either type of can?
Yes, both stainless steel and plastic 13-gallon cans are designed to fit standard supermarket trash bags. Some steel models include a plastic inner ring or insert to hold the bag in place, which makes bag changes easier and prevents the bag from slipping down.
Does stainless steel really prevent odors better than plastic?
Yes, because stainless steel is non-porous and doesn’t absorb food juices or smells. Plastic develops microscopic scratches over time where bacteria and odor molecules collect, making it harder to keep fresh even after thorough cleaning with bleach or baking soda.
How do you remove fingerprints from a stainless steel trash can?
Use a microfiber cloth dampened with water or a dedicated stainless steel cleaner. Wipe in the direction of the grain to avoid streaks. Models with fingerprint-proof coatings, like those from itouchless and KOHLER, resist smudges and require less frequent wiping.
Are plastic trash cans more likely to crack than steel ones?
Yes, plastic cans can crack if dropped or exposed to extreme temperatures, especially cheaper thin-walled models. Stainless steel dents rather than cracks, which means it keeps containing trash even after an impact, though the dent is permanent.
Which material is better for a home with kids or pets?
Plastic is generally safer because it’s lighter and has no sharp edges if dented. However, a sensor-lid steel can keeps curious hands and noses out of the trash. For pet owners, a heavy steel step can with a locking lid offers the best resistance to tipping and opening.
References & Sources
- Food & Wine. “The Best Kitchen Trash Cans, Tested by Food & Wine.” Tested material differences in durability and cleaning ease.
- itouchless. “13 Gallon / 50 Liter White Stainless Steel Sensor Kitchen Trash Can.” Product specs for touchless sensor model with odor filter.
- KOHLER. “K-20940 13-Gallon Rectangle Trash Can.” Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel step can details.
- Rubbermaid (via Home Depot). “13 Gal. White Spring-Top Plastic Indoor Trash Can, Model FG5L5806WHT.” Plastic spring-top can specifications and features.
- Epicurious. “The Best Kitchen Trash Cans for Every Kitchen.” Expert notes on odor retention differences between materials.