
A 13 gallon trash can hits a common home sweet spot. It holds a full week of kitchen waste for many households. It also gives you room for larger bags during busy cooking and cleanup days.
In this size range, buyers usually face real trade-offs. Step-on lids feel hands-free but can require more force. Touchless sensors reduce contact but can be slower and more battery dependent. Stainless steel cans can look clean, but plastic lids often control the seal. Automatic lids also tend to cost more than simple manual designs.
If you want options beyond this exact capacity range, check our full guide for wider picks and setups. Looking for all types? See our Best Trash Cans.
Quick Overview
Our Top Picks
#1. simplehuman Semi-Round Step 13 Gallon Trash Can

Specifications
| Brand | simplehuman |
|---|---|
| Capacity Gal | 13 gal |
| Dimensions In | 25.7 x 12.8 x 19.8 in |
| Weight Lb | 16.5 lb |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Opening Mechanism | Step-On |
| Shape | Semi-Round |
Pros
- Sturdy frame, no wobble
- Smooth pedal operation
- Reliable sealing gasket
Cons
- Heavy and bulky
- Proprietary liner costs
- Accessory dependence odor control
For a 13 gal trash can, this simplehuman semi-round step-on model stands out for how solid it feels and how consistently the lid seals. The stainless steel body stays stable when you press the pedal, and the closing gasket helps keep odors contained better than many typical mid-size cans. In everyday kitchen use, the pedal action is smooth, so it is quick to drop in a bag and keep the lid down when you are busy.
The main trade-off is practical, not performance. At 16.5 lb, it is not the easiest can to move for cleaning or rearranging, and it depends on compatible liners for the best fit. If you want a simple, grab-and-go bin that you can switch liner types for any brand, this may feel limiting. If you care most about a tight seal, steady operation, and a can that holds up to daily use, it fits that need well.
#2. EKO Mirage-T 13.2 Gallon Trash Can

Specifications
| Brand | EKO |
|---|---|
| Capacity Gal | 13.2 gal |
| Dimensions In | 24.6 x 14.8 x 9.8 in |
| Weight Lb | 8.8 lb |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Opening Mechanism | Touchless Sensor |
| Shape | Rectangular |
| Installation Type | Wall-Mounted |
Pros
- Affordable and durable
- Durable stainless build
- Sturdy frame, no wobble
Cons
- Early sensor failure
- Shipping damage risk
- Bulky size
For a 13 gal trash can, the EKO Mirage-T stands out because it switches everyday use to hands-free with a Touchless Sensor. That matters in a kitchen or office where your hands stay busy. The stainless steel body feels solid, with a frame that does not wobble when the lid opens. At about 13.2 gal and a compact footprint for its height, it is easier to place than many bulkier options in this size range.
The main trade-off is the sensor. Some users report early sensor failure, so it may not be the best choice if you want a long stretch with no electronics to worry about. Also, because it is a wall-mounted can, shipping damage is something to keep in mind at delivery. This is best for anyone who wants a sturdy stainless can and likes the convenience of sensor opening more than the simplicity of a purely manual lid.
#3. Ninestars Automatic 13 Gallon Trash Can

Specifications
| Brand | Ninestars |
|---|---|
| Capacity Gal | 13 gal |
| Dimensions In | 25 x 15.2 x 11.2 in |
| Weight Lb | 6.8 lb |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Opening Mechanism | Touchless Sensor |
| Shape | Rectangular |
Pros
- Smooth pedal operation
- Hands-free opening
- Durable stainless build
Cons
- Shipping dents on arrival
For a 13 gal trash can, Ninestars stands out for hands-free use. The touchless sensor lid is backed by a smooth pedal-style feel when you do need to operate it directly. At 13 gal and about 25 x 15.2 x 11.2 in, it fits typical kitchen and office setups without feeling overly bulky, and the stainless steel build helps it look clean even when it is full.
The main downside shows up before you even start using it. Some buyers report shipping dents on arrival, so inspect the can right away. It also makes the most sense for households that want less contact with the lid, like kitchens with busy traffic or areas where odors and mess are a concern during daily cleanup.
#4. Rubbermaid Classic Step-On 13 Gallon Trash Can

Specifications
| Brand | Rubbermaid |
|---|---|
| Capacity Gal | 13 gal |
| Dimensions In | 24.8 x 17.5 x 14.5 in |
| Weight Lb | 4.3 lb |
| Material | Resin |
| Opening Mechanism | Step-On |
Pros
- Sturdy frame, no wobble
- Smooth pedal operation
- Affordable and durable
Cons
- Lid overextension
This Rubbermaid Classic Step-On 13 gal trash can stands out for day-to-day use because the pedal action is smooth and the can stays stable when you open it. In the 13 gallon category, that matters since a fuller bag adds weight and movement is more noticeable. The resin body feels solid and the overall build holds up well for routine kitchen or office dumping.
The main trade-off is lid overextension, which can mean you need to manage how far the lid swings when it opens. That is a small issue, but it may annoy people who want a very tight, controlled lid motion. Still, it is a good fit for households that want hands-free disposal and an easy-to-live-with size at 13 gal.
#5. KdbK 13 Gallon Stainless Trash Can

Specifications
| Brand | KdbK |
|---|---|
| Capacity Gal | 13 gal |
| Dimensions In | 16.7 x 26.4 x 14.1 in |
| Weight Lb | 20.7 lb |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Opening Mechanism | Step-On |
| Shape | Rectangular |
Pros
- Large capacity
- Durable stainless build
- Hands-free opening
Cons
- Sometimes leaks odors
- Heavy and bulky
This 13 gal stainless trash can stands out for its step-on, hands-free lid paired with a heavy stainless body. In a 13 gallon class, that combo matters because larger bins get used hard, and a sturdier can usually means fewer wobble points when the lid is pressed. It is sized at 16.7 x 26.4 x 14.1 in, so it fits typical kitchen and utility layouts without feeling like a full-size dumpster.
The main trade-off is that it can sometimes let odors escape, so it is not the best pick for very smelly waste unless you bag tightly and take out trash often. It is also on the heavier side at 20.7 lb, which makes it less convenient to move for cleaning or rearranging. If you want a durable, step-on 13 gal can for frequent daily use and you do not mind the weight, this one is a solid mid-to-upper option in the category.
#6. Amazon Basics LARGE 13.2 Gallon Trash Can

Specifications
| Brand | Amazon Basics |
|---|---|
| Capacity Gal | 13.2 gal |
| Dimensions In | 14.7 x 16.7 x 25.9 in |
| Weight Lb | 12.4 lb |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Opening Mechanism | Step-On |
| Shape | Rectangular |
Pros
- Smart footprint, great capacity
- Sturdy frame, no wobble
- Hands-free opening
Cons
- Sometimes leaks odors
- Bag fit mismatch
This 13.2 gal stainless steel step-on can stands out for how stable it feels while still keeping a compact footprint. The rectangular shape uses floor space well, and the pedal lid makes it easy to open with your hands full. Build quality is strong for everyday kitchen use, with a sturdy frame that does not wobble when the lid is pressed.
The main downside is odor control. Some users report that it can let smells out, especially as the liner stretches or sits unevenly. It is also worth checking bag sizing before committing, since the bag fit can be a little picky. This is a good pick for busy kitchens or offices where you want hands-free dumping, and you are willing to fine-tune liner fit for better smell containment.
#7. BestOffice Automatic 13 Gallon Trash Can

Specifications
| Brand | BestOffice |
|---|---|
| Capacity Gal | 13 gal |
| Weight Lb | 4 lb |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Opening Mechanism | Touchless Sensor |
| Shape | Oval |
Pros
- Smooth pedal operation
- Smart footprint, great capacity
- Affordable and durable
Cons
- Hidden flaws
This 13 gal BestOffice automatic can stands out for its hands-free Touchless Sensor lid and smooth pedal-style opening feel in a larger size category. In real kitchen and office use, that means fewer sticky lid touches and easier disposal during busy moments. The oval stainless-steel build also looks and feels stable, and the footprint stays manageable while still holding a full 13 gal.
The trade-off is that some owners may find the lid or sensor placement takes a little getting used to, and there may be hidden flaws not obvious during a quick check. It is a good fit for anyone who wants a bigger bin but still cares about clean, one-touch disposal. If you prefer very simple, manual lids, this one may feel more complex than necessary.
#8. PayLessHere 13 Gallon Recycling Trash Can

Specifications
| Brand | PayLessHere |
|---|---|
| Capacity Gal | 13 gal |
| Dimensions In | 16.8 x 12.3 x 25.5 in |
| Weight Lb | 13 lb |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Opening Mechanism | Step-On |
| Shape | Oval |
Pros
- Smooth pedal operation
- Smart footprint, great capacity
- Affordable and durable
Cons
- Sometimes leaks odors
- Bulky size
- Battery maintenance
This 13 gal stainless steel, step-on can stands out for how it balances size and daily use. The oval shape keeps the footprint practical at 16.8 x 12.3 x 25.5 in, so it fits better in kitchen corners than many bulkier 13 gal options. The pedal action also feels smooth, which matters when you are tossing bagged waste a few times a day.
The main trade-off is odor control. Some users report leaks when the lid does not seal perfectly, so it may not be the best choice for strong food scraps. It is also on the bulkier side, so smaller spaces could feel crowded. If you want a hands-free can that is easy to operate and you do not mind extra attention to sealing and bag changes, it is a solid pick.
#9. iTouchless SensorCan 13 Gallon Trash Can

Specifications
| Brand | iTouchless |
|---|---|
| Capacity Gal | 13 gal |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Opening Mechanism | Touchless Sensor |
| Shape | Oval |
Pros
- Affordable and durable
- Durable stainless build
- Large capacity
Cons
- Sensor stops working
- Short lifespan reports
For a 13 gal kitchen trash can, the iTouchless SensorCan stands out because it is a stainless steel, touchless option. The lid opens with a sensor, so you do not have to touch it while cooking or handling messy scraps. That makes it a practical fit for busy households that want a larger bin without giving up hands-free convenience.
The main trade-off is reliability. Some reports say the sensor can stop working after a period of use, which hurts day-to-day convenience for a bin you will open often. If you want a bigger 13 gal stainless can mainly for the look and hands-free lid, this can work well early on, but it is a gamble if you expect the sensor to last for years.
#10. FDW 13 Gallon Step Trash Can

Specifications
| Brand | FDW |
|---|---|
| Capacity Gal | 13 gal |
| Dimensions In | 16.8 x 12.3 x 25.5 in |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Opening Mechanism | Step-On |
Pros
- Smooth pedal operation
- Smart footprint, great capacity
- Affordable and durable
Cons
- Sometimes leaks odors
The FDW 13 Gallon Step Trash Can stands out in 13 gallon trash cans because it is a compact 13 gal option with a well-behaved step-on lid. At 16.8 x 12.3 x 25.5 in, it fits easily in tight kitchens while still holding a full 13 gal liner load. The pedal action is smooth, so you can open it with your foot and drop waste in without wrestling the lid.
The main trade-off is odor control. Some users report occasional leaks odors, which usually means the lid seal is not always as tight as you want for food waste. This makes it a better pick for households that can empty the bin more often, or for use with bags that stay secure. If you want a large can with easy foot access and a smart footprint, it is a solid match, but plan to manage odor with more frequent bag changes.
What to Look For
Build Quality: Look for a stable base and a lid that stays aligned. A 13 gallon can gets heavy when full. Prefer smooth hinges or pedals that do not wobble or scrape.
Convenience: Bag changes should feel fast. Check how the lid opens and how easy it is to lift the bag out without fighting the rim. Handles matter too, especially if you move the can for cleaning.
Odor Control: Focus on lid closure and fit. A tight seal prevents daily smells from escaping when you lift and close the lid. If the lid closes inconsistently, odor control will be uneven.
Size and Footprint: “13 gallon” does not mean a uniform shape. Compare width, depth, and height before you buy. A slimmer footprint can work better in kitchens, while taller models may not fit under cabinets.
Value for 13 Gallon Use: Compare the full cost to the features you will actually use. Pay extra for sensors only if hands-free access is a priority. If you mainly want a strong step lid, spend on sturdiness first.
How We Picked
Products were identified through broad research across review sites and buyer forums, then filtered to only those that qualify as 13 Gallon Trash Cans.
Scoring used the same objective pillar framework as the main Trash Cans post, allowing direct comparison of products within this sub-category.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size kitchen trash can liners should I buy for a 13 gallon trash can?
Most 13 gallon step and sensor cans use a standard 13 gallon liner size. Check the product listing for liner fit, since some brands fit slightly tighter. If you reuse liners, measure your can opening height and width before buying.
Will a 13 gallon trash can fit in a narrow kitchen corner or under a counter?
It depends on the width and depth of the can, not just the 13 gallon capacity. Measure the space where the lid opens and clears the door frame or cabinet. A step lid needs extra room when fully raised.
How do I reduce odors in a 13 gallon trash can?
Choose a can with a lid that closes fully and stays snug to the rim. Empty it more often for food scraps and pet waste. Wipe the lid and inner rim with a damp cloth to prevent sticky residue from holding smells.
Are step-on or touchless lids better for everyday use?
Step-on lids work well when you want hands-free use but do not want batteries. Touchless sensor lids help when you need to avoid touching the lid with dirty hands. Either way, look for smooth opening and a lid that closes completely.
Should I choose a 13 gallon trash can, or go smaller or larger?
Go with 13 gallons if you regularly fill a single bag within about a week. A smaller can may overflow faster, especially with food waste. A larger can can waste space and weight if you do not fill it often.
How does a 13 gallon trash can compare to 10 or 16 gallon options?
A 13 gallon can sits in the middle for bag size and fill time. Ten gallon cans fit tighter spaces but fill sooner. Sixteen gallon cans hold more between trips but can feel bulky and take up more floor space.


