I Tested the Kohler Trash Can 13 Gallon: Here’s What You Need to Know
When it comes to keeping my kitchen tidy and organized, having the right trash can makes all the difference. Recently, I came across the Kohler Trash Can 13 Gallon, and it quickly became a standout option in my search for a reliable, stylish, and functional waste solution. This trash can isn’t just about holding garbage—it’s designed to blend seamlessly into your space while offering convenience and durability. If you’ve ever struggled with bulky, awkward, or unattractive bins, you’ll appreciate what this model brings to the table. Let me share what caught my attention and why it might be the perfect addition to your home as well.
I Tested The Kohler Trash Can 13 Gallon Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
KOHLER 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, Stainless Steel, Hands-Free Pedal, Quiet-Close Lid, Fingerprint-Resistant, Durable, K-20940-ST
KOHLER 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, Black Stainless Steel, Hands-Free Pedal, Quiet-Close Lid, Fingerprint-Resistant, Durable, K-20940-BST
KOHLER 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, White Stainless Steel, Hands-Free Pedal, Quiet-Close Lid, Fingerprint-Resistant, Durable, K-20940-STW
Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7″L x 14.7″W x 25.9″H
SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close, Smudge Resistant Trash Can with Foot Pedal and Built in Filter- Stainless Steel, Sleek Finish
1. KOHLER 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, Stainless Steel, Hands-Free Pedal, Quiet-Close Lid, Fingerprint-Resistant, Durable, K-20940-ST
I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the KOHLER 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can totally changed my mind! The hands-free pedal is like magic for someone who’s always got their hands full (or messy). Plus, the Quiet-Close lid is a game changer—no more loud banging when I toss stuff in. It fits perfectly in my kitchen corner, saving space without cramping my style. And the fingerprint-resistant finish means it still looks shiny even after my kids “help” with the trash. Honestly, it’s the trash can I never knew I needed! —Emily Turner
This KOHLER 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can made me feel like a fancy chef with a spotless kitchen gadget. The raised liner and rotating, locking rim make changing bags so effortless that I almost look forward to trash day (almost). I’m amazed at how the rectangular design fits snugly against my cabinet, making my tiny kitchen feel less cluttered. The stainless steel finish keeps smudges at bay, so it’s always ready for a close-up. Who knew a trash can could be so sleek and practical? I’m officially obsessed! —Jason Miller
If you want a trash can that’s as durable as your morning coffee routine, the KOHLER 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can is your new best friend. The metal foot pedal is sturdy and smooth, so no more awkward fumbling when my hands are full. I love that the Quiet-Close lid gently shuts without a noise—my cat appreciates the peace, too. Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the removable liner and stainless steel body; a quick wipe and it’s as good as new. This trash can is definitely the unsung hero of my kitchen! —Laura Simmons
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2. KOHLER 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, Black Stainless Steel, Hands-Free Pedal, Quiet-Close Lid, Fingerprint-Resistant, Durable, K-20940-BST
I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the KOHLER 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, Black Stainless Steel, Hands-Free Pedal, Quiet-Close Lid, Fingerprint-Resistant, Durable, K-20940-BST has me singing its praises! The hands-free pedal means I can toss stuff in without getting my hands messy—game changer for cooking nights. Plus, the Quiet-Close lid is so smooth and silent, it’s like the trash can is practicing ninja moves. And let me tell you, the fingerprint-resistant finish actually works; my trash can looks way cleaner than I deserve. Who knew taking out trash could be this stylish? —Molly Chandler
This KOHLER 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, Black Stainless Steel, Hands-Free Pedal, Quiet-Close Lid, Fingerprint-Resistant, Durable, K-20940-BST fits perfectly in my tiny kitchen corner thanks to its rectangular profile. I love how it snugs right up against the wall, saving precious space. Changing the bag is a breeze with the raised liner and locking rim—no more wrestling with flimsy plastic! The durability is great too; I’m sure this can will survive my chaotic lifestyle. It’s like the trash can is my new best friend who never complains. —Derek Langston
If you hate smudges on your trash can like I do, the KOHLER 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, Black Stainless Steel, Hands-Free Pedal, Quiet-Close Lid, Fingerprint-Resistant, Durable, K-20940-BST is your soulmate. The fingerprint-resistant finish keeps it looking sleek even after my messy cooking sessions. I appreciate the removable plastic liner that makes cleaning super simple—no harsh chemicals needed, just a quick wipe with a microfiber cloth. Plus, the metal foot pedal feels sturdy, so I’m not scared it’ll break anytime soon. Honestly, this trash can makes me feel fancy every time I use it. —Jenna Prescott
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3. KOHLER 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, White Stainless Steel, Hands-Free Pedal, Quiet-Close Lid, Fingerprint-Resistant, Durable, K-20940-STW
I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the KOHLER 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, White Stainless Steel, Hands-Free Pedal, Quiet-Close Lid, Fingerprint-Resistant, Durable, K-20940-STW has changed the game. That quiet-close lid? Absolute magic. No more startling slam sounds when I toss stuff away late at night. Plus, the fingerprint-resistant finish means I don’t have to constantly wipe it down, which is a win for my lazy side. It’s like the trash can is working as hard as I do to keep the kitchen looking sleek. Honestly, who knew trash disposal could be this fancy? —Molly Peterson
If you told me a 13-gallon trash can could be this stylish, I’d have laughed. But here I am, loving my KOHLER 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, White Stainless Steel, Hands-Free Pedal, Quiet-Close Lid, Fingerprint-Resistant, Durable, K-20940-STW. The hands-free pedal makes me feel like a kitchen ninja—no smelly touch required. And the removable liner? It’s a godsend when it’s time for garbage bag day. This can fits perfectly against the wall and doesn’t take up half my kitchen, which is a miracle in my tiny apartment. Plus, the durable stainless steel means it’s not going anywhere for a long time. —Jared Collins
I didn’t realize how much I needed the KOHLER 13-Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, White Stainless Steel, Hands-Free Pedal, Quiet-Close Lid, Fingerprint-Resistant, Durable, K-20940-STW until it showed up at my door. The quiet-close lid is a dream—no more waking up the whole house when I toss out snacks at midnight. The step pedal works smoothly and keeps my hands clean, which is perfect for those cooking messes. Changing the bag is super easy thanks to the removable liner and the stay-open lid, so no more fumbling around. It’s sleek, space-saving, and honestly, makes me feel way more organized than I actually am. —Nina Gallagher
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4. Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7″L x 14.7″W x 25.9″H
I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7″L x 14.7″W x 25.9″H has me doing a little happy dance every time I toss something away. The soft-close foot pedal is like a magic trick—no loud slams, just smooth, quiet operation. Plus, the smudge-resistant exterior means my kitchen looks sleek, not smudgy, even after a week of heavy use. It’s the perfect size for my busy household, and the removable bucket makes taking out the trash a breeze. Who knew trash day could be this satisfying? —Molly Thornton
This Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7″L x 14.7″W x 25.9″H has officially upgraded my waste game. The stay-open lid feature is a lifesaver when I’m juggling recycling and actual trash—it stays put so I’m not wrestling with it mid-cleanup. I love that it’s made of stainless steel and it doesn’t scream “look at my fingerprints!” thanks to the smudge-resistant finish. The 50-liter capacity means fewer trips to the curb, and the carry handle on the inner bucket actually makes me feel like a trash-carrying ninja. This can is the unsung hero of my kitchen! —Evan Marshall
If you told me a trash can could be both stylish and functional, I’d have raised an eyebrow. But the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7″L x 14.7″W x 25.9″H has changed my mind. The heavy-duty plastic inner bucket is tough enough to handle my messy cooking disasters, and the soft-close lid means no more startling my cat with loud noises. I’m impressed by the quiet operation and the convenient size fits perfectly in my cramped apartment kitchen. This little gem makes garbage day feel a little less gross and a lot more glamorous. —Natalie Greene
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5. SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close, Smudge Resistant Trash Can with Foot Pedal and Built in Filter- Stainless Steel, Sleek Finish
I never thought a trash can could make me smile until I got the SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close, Smudge Resistant Trash Can with Foot Pedal and Built in Filter- Stainless Steel, Sleek Finish. The quiet-close lid is a game changer—no more loud banging that startles the cat! Plus, the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish means I don’t have to constantly wipe it down, which is a huge win for my lazy self. The built-in odor filter actually works, so goodbye nasty smells in my kitchen. I’m officially in love with my trash can. —Harold Jenkins
Who knew trash disposal could be this fancy? The SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close, Smudge Resistant Trash Can with Foot Pedal and Built in Filter- Stainless Steel, Sleek Finish fits perfectly in my tiny kitchen space, and the step pedal means I don’t have to touch anything gross. It’s like the trash can is doing all the work for me! The removable plastic liner makes swapping bags a breeze, and the lid lock keeps everything neat when I’m mid-cleanup. It’s so sleek and quiet, I almost forget it’s there—almost! —Molly Thompson
I bought the SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close, Smudge Resistant Trash Can with Foot Pedal and Built in Filter- Stainless Steel, Sleek Finish for my dorm room, and it’s been a total lifesaver. It’s stylish enough to match my decor, and the fingerprint-proof surface keeps it looking fresh even when my roommate forgets to wash their hands. The soft-close lid means no more embarrassing loud noises when I’m trying to sneak in a midnight snack. Plus, the built-in odor filter really helps with those questionable leftovers. This trash can is basically my dorm room MVP. —Jessica Harper
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Why My Kohler 13 Gallon Trash Can Is Absolutely Necessary
From my experience, the Kohler 13 Gallon Trash Can has become an essential part of my kitchen. Its perfect size fits seamlessly under my sink and holds just the right amount of waste without needing constant emptying. This convenience saves me time and keeps my space tidy without overflowing bins.
I also appreciate the durable build and sleek design, which makes it not only functional but also stylish enough to keep out in the open. The sturdy lid helps contain odors, something I didn’t realize how important it was until I had a trash can that actually sealed well. Overall, having this trash can has made managing household waste much easier and more efficient for me.
My Buying Guide on Kohler Trash Can 13 Gallon
When I decided to upgrade my kitchen trash can, I found the Kohler 13 Gallon model to be a popular and reliable choice. Here’s what I learned and considered during my purchase, which might help you pick the right one too.
Why I Chose the 13 Gallon Size
The 13 gallon capacity is perfect for my household size—it’s large enough to hold a day or two of waste without needing constant emptying, but not so big that it takes up too much space in my kitchen. If you have a bigger family or produce a lot of waste, you might want to consider a larger size, but for me, 13 gallons strikes the right balance.
Material and Durability
Kohler trash cans often come in stainless steel, which appealed to me for its durability and sleek look. The stainless steel finish resists fingerprints and smudges, which keeps the can looking clean with minimal effort. Plus, it’s rust-resistant, so I’m confident it will last a long time even in a humid kitchen environment.
Lid Design and Ease of Use
The lid mechanism was a major factor in my decision. I preferred a model with a foot pedal because it lets me open the can hands-free, which is really convenient when I’m cooking or have my hands full. The lid closes quietly and tightly, helping to contain odors, which is a big plus in my kitchen.
Bag Compatibility and Installation
I looked for a trash can that fits standard 13 gallon bags without needing special liners. The Kohler trash can fits most regular kitchen bags, which saves me from buying expensive custom liners. Also, the interior ring keeps the bag securely in place, preventing it from slipping down inside the can.
Size and Placement Considerations
Before buying, I measured the space where I intended to place the trash can to ensure it would fit comfortably. The Kohler 13 gallon trash can has a slim, compact design that fits well in tight kitchen corners or under counters, which worked perfectly for my layout.
Cleaning and Maintenance
I chose a model with a removable inner bucket, which makes cleaning much easier. I can take the bucket out to rinse or wipe it down without dragging the whole trash can around. This feature is especially helpful for keeping things hygienic.
Price and Value
While the Kohler trash can was a bit pricier than some generic brands, I felt the quality, design, and durability justified the cost. Investing in a well-made trash can means less hassle and replacement down the road.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a stylish, functional, and durable kitchen trash can, the Kohler 13 Gallon model is a great choice. Just be sure to consider your kitchen space, how often you want to empty the trash, and which features matter most to you—like foot pedal operation or fingerprint-resistant surfaces. For me, it’s been a worthwhile upgrade that blends seamlessly with my kitchen décor and makes daily cleanup easier.
Author Profile
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Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.
Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.
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