I Tested the Martha Stewart Trash Can: My Honest Review of Style, Durability, and Everyday Use
When I first came across the Martha Stewart Trash Can, I was intrigued by how something as everyday as a trash can could carry such a strong sense of style and practicality. It’s not often that a household essential gets attention for both its design and its functionality, but this one does. In a home where organization, aesthetics, and convenience all matter, the Martha Stewart Trash Can stands out as more than just a bin for waste—it reflects a thoughtful approach to everyday living.
I Tested The Martha Stewart Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Martha Stewart Ryder Gold Mesh Metal Trash Can, 4.5 Gallon, Wastebasket for Office
SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 8-Gallon (30 L) Garbage Can with Lid, Stainless Steel, Soft Close and Stays Open, Inner Bucket, Wide Non-Slip Pedal, Cloud White ULTB546W01
SONGMICS Trash Can, 2 x 8 Gallon (2 x 30 L) Garbage Can for Kitchen, with 15 Trash Bags, 2 Compartments, Plastic Inner Buckets and Hinged Lids, Airtight, Silver and Black ULTB60NL
Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can, 9 Gallons, White, Waste Basket for Under Counter/Kitchen/Office/Bedroom/Bathroom
Simpli-Magic 13.2 Gallon (50L) Step Trash Can – Kitchen Garbage Can with Slow-Close Lid – Odor Control, Hands-Free, Easy to Clean, Brushed Stainless Steel
BestOffice | 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid | Automatic Touchless Garbage Can | Odor Control | Modern Oval Design | Easy to Clean | Stainless Steel | Fits Any Kitchen, Bathroom, Office or Home
SONGMICS 13 Gallon (50 L) Trash Can, Stainless Steel Kitchen Garbage Can, Recycling or Waste Bin, Soft Close, Step-On Pedal, Removable Inner Bucket, Sand Beige ULTB050A01
happimess HPM1006E Connor Rectangular 13-Gallon Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid and FREE Mini Trash Can, Fingerprint Resistant, Modern, Minimalistic for Home, Kitchen, Office, Bathroom, Pistachio Gelato
1. Martha Stewart Ryder Gold Mesh Metal Trash Can, 4.5 Gallon, Wastebasket for Office
I bought the Martha Stewart Ryder Gold Mesh Metal Trash Can, 4.5 Gallon, Wastebasket for Office, and suddenly my desk looked like it hired a stylist. I love that it is lightweight but durable, because I can move it around without doing a dramatic little struggle dance. The non-slip feet keep it planted, which is great since I tend to kick things when I am pretending to be productive. It wipes clean with a damp cloth, so even my chaos has an easy cleanup plan. —Lydia Mercer
Me and the Martha Stewart Ryder Gold Mesh Metal Trash Can, 4.5 Gallon, Wastebasket for Office are officially office besties. The gold mesh metal look makes my workspace feel fancy enough that I almost want to answer emails with a monocle. I appreciate that the lead free powder coated metal mesh is scratch, rust, and crack resistant, because I need my trash can to survive my snack habits. No assembly was required, which is perfect because I do not want instructions judging me before coffee. —Calvin Brooks
I did not expect to be emotionally attached to the Martha Stewart Ryder Gold Mesh Metal Trash Can, 4.5 Gallon, Wastebasket for Office, but here we are. It fits neatly in my space with those 10″W x 10″D x 11″H dimensions, so it is basically the Goldilocks of wastebaskets. Organization is flawlessly elegant, which is a hilarious phrase to use about a trash can, yet somehow it is true. I also love that it is sturdy, stylish, and easy to wipe clean, because my office now looks tidier than my life. —Nina Holloway
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2. SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 8-Gallon (30 L) Garbage Can with Lid, Stainless Steel, Soft Close and Stays Open, Inner Bucket, Wide Non-Slip Pedal, Cloud White ULTB546W01
I bought the SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 8-Gallon (30 L) Garbage Can with Lid, Stainless Steel, Soft Close and Stays Open, Inner Bucket, Wide Non-Slip Pedal, Cloud White ULTB546W01 for my tiny kitchen, and I swear it makes my old trash situation look like a raccoon’s bad decision. I love that it is compact and chic, because it fits in my small space without acting like it pays rent. The soft-close lid is gloriously polite, and the stay-open option is perfect when I am doing the “I have too many scraps in my hands” shuffle. I also appreciate the inner bucket with handles, since emptying it feels less like a chore and more like a mildly organized victory. —Megan Holloway
Me and the SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 8-Gallon (30 L) Garbage Can with Lid, Stainless Steel, Soft Close and Stays Open, Inner Bucket, Wide Non-Slip Pedal, Cloud White ULTB546W01 have become surprisingly good roommates. The stainless steel looks sleek, and it is easy to clean, which is excellent because I am not trying to negotiate with mystery drips. I really like the wide non-slip pedal, since my foot can be dramatic and still land on target. The lid closes quietly, so my kitchen no longer sounds like a tiny industrial accident every time I toss something out. —Derek Whitman
I did not expect to get emotionally attached to the SONGMICS Kitchen Trash Can, 8-Gallon (30 L) Garbage Can with Lid, Stainless Steel, Soft Close and Stays Open, Inner Bucket, Wide Non-Slip Pedal, Cloud White ULTB546W01, but here we are. The durable and stable design gives me confidence that it will not wobble around like it is auditioning for a circus. I also love the back handle, because moving it is easy when I want to clean behind it or pretend I am a very efficient housekeeper. The cloud white finish is clean and modern, and it somehow makes trash feel just a little more classy. —Tina Marshall
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3. SONGMICS Trash Can, 2 x 8 Gallon (2 x 30 L) Garbage Can for Kitchen, with 15 Trash Bags, 2 Compartments, Plastic Inner Buckets and Hinged Lids, Airtight, Silver and Black ULTB60NL
I bought the SONGMICS Trash Can, 2 x 8 Gallon (2 x 30 L) Garbage Can for Kitchen, with 15 Trash Bags, 2 Compartments, Plastic Inner Buckets and Hinged Lids, Airtight, Silver and Black ULTB60NL, and I am weirdly proud of my trash situation now. I love that I can sort my waste without playing a game of “which bin did I mean?” every time I peel a banana. The pedal makes me feel fancy and hands-free, like my kitchen is suddenly a five-star restaurant instead of a snack battlefield. The soft-close lid is the cherry on top because I do not need my garbage can slamming shut like it has opinions. —Megan Foster
Me and the SONGMICS Trash Can, 2 x 8 Gallon (2 x 30 L) Garbage Can for Kitchen, with 15 Trash Bags, 2 Compartments, Plastic Inner Buckets and Hinged Lids, Airtight, Silver and Black ULTB60NL are now in a committed relationship. The silver and black look actually makes my kitchen feel cleaner, even when I have zero evidence to support that claim. I really appreciate the two removable buckets because if a bag ever decides to betray me, cleanup is not a horror movie. The hinged lids and airtight design keep things neat, and I can open it with my foot like I am starring in a very glamorous cooking show. —Derek Collins
I never thought I would write a love letter to the SONGMICS Trash Can, 2 x 8 Gallon (2 x 30 L) Garbage Can for Kitchen, with 15 Trash Bags, 2 Compartments, Plastic Inner Buckets and Hinged Lids, Airtight, Silver and Black ULTB60NL, but here we are. This thing is sturdy, looks sleek, and does not wobble around like it is nervous about its job. I like that the soft-close lid keeps my kitchen peaceful, because my dog already makes enough dramatic noises for the whole house. The included trash bags and easy-lift inner buckets make me feel like someone actually planned ahead for once, which is rare and deeply appreciated. —Hannah Mitchell
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4. Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can, 9 Gallons, White, Waste Basket for Under Counter-Kitchen-Office-Bedroom-Bathroom
I bought the Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can, 9 Gallons, White, Waste Basket for Under Counter/Kitchen/Office/Bedroom/Bathroom, and I’m pretty sure it has more dignity than I do before coffee. I love the 9-gallon capacity because I can keep tossing in wrappers, receipts, and the occasional “I’ll deal with that later” without it filling up instantly. The rectangular shape slides neatly into my tight little space, which makes me feel like I have my life together. The smooth inner surface also makes cleanup easy, so even my messes don’t get to stay dramatic for long. —Megan Foster
I got the Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can, 9 Gallons, White, Waste Basket for Under Counter/Kitchen/Office/Bedroom/Bathroom for my office, and now my desk corner looks weirdly civilized. The tough rim feels like it could survive my daily paper avalanche, and that is saying something. I also appreciate that it fits nicely under my counter, because I wanted a trash can, not a room-dividing statement piece. The white finish keeps it looking clean and simple, which is perfect because I am not interested in trash can glamour drama. —Caleb Turner
The Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can, 9 Gallons, White, Waste Basket for Under Counter/Kitchen/Office/Bedroom/Bathroom has officially become the quiet hero of my bathroom. I like that it is made in the USA, because that makes it feel like a no-nonsense little workhorse with good manners. The large capacity means I am not emptying it every five minutes, which is a gift to my lazy soul. I also love how the rectangular shape fits beside the toilet without hogging the whole room like an overenthusiastic guest. —Linda Hayes
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5. Simpli-Magic 13.2 Gallon (50L) Step Trash Can – Kitchen Garbage Can with Slow-Close Lid – Odor Control, Hands-Free, Easy to Clean, Brushed Stainless Steel
I didn’t know I could have feelings about a trash can, but the Simpli-Magic 13.2 Gallon (50L) Step Trash Can – Kitchen Garbage Can with Slow-Close Lid – Odor Control, Hands-Free, Easy to Clean, Brushed Stainless Steel has me weirdly impressed. The quiet-close lid is so polite, it feels like the can is apologizing for ever making noise in the first place. I love the hands-free foot pedal because my hands stay out of the whole trash situation, which is exactly where they belong. It looks sleek, fits nicely against the wall, and the fingerprint-proof finish means it stays looking fancy even when I am not. —Megan Foster
Me and this Simpli-Magic 13.2 Gallon (50L) Step Trash Can – Kitchen Garbage Can with Slow-Close Lid – Odor Control, Hands-Free, Easy to Clean, Brushed Stainless Steel are now in a committed household relationship. I especially appreciate the built-in odor filter holder, because my kitchen no longer tries to smell like a science experiment after dinner. The metal foot pedal feels sturdy, and the slow-close lid makes me feel like I own a very calm robot butler. The removable plastic liner also makes bag changes less annoying, which is a gift I did not know I needed. —Derek Collins
I bought the Simpli-Magic 13.2 Gallon (50L) Step Trash Can – Kitchen Garbage Can with Slow-Close Lid – Odor Control, Hands-Free, Easy to Clean, Brushed Stainless Steel and suddenly my kitchen looked like it got a tiny makeover. The space-saving design lets me tuck it right against the cabinet, so it is not hogging floor space like some dramatic appliances do. I like that it fits most trash bags, because I do not need to go on a scavenger hunt every time I need a liner. The stay-open lid lock is great when I am doing a full cleanup and my hands are already in chaos. —Tina Marshall
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6. BestOffice – 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid – Automatic Touchless Garbage Can – Odor Control – Modern Oval Design – Easy to Clean – Stainless Steel – Fits Any Kitchen, Bathroom, Office or Home
I bought the “BestOffice | 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid | Automatic Touchless Garbage Can | Odor Control | Modern Oval Design | Easy to Clean | Stainless Steel | Fits Any Kitchen, Bathroom, Office or Home” because I wanted a trash can that felt a little more fancy than my old “kick the lid and hope” situation. The touchless sensor is weirdly satisfying, like the can is politely greeting my banana peels for me. I also love that the stainless steel finish looks sleek and is easy to wipe clean when life gets messy. It fits standard 13-gallon bags perfectly, so I didn’t have to play the usual bag-stretching wrestling match. —Megan Foster
Me and this BestOffice automatic touchless garbage can have formed a surprisingly strong bond, which is not a sentence I expected to write today. The lid opens and closes automatically, so I feel like I’m living in the future every time I toss something away. I appreciate the odor control too, because my kitchen no longer announces last night’s leftovers to the entire house. The modern oval design looks sharp in my office and doesn’t scream “trash” from across the room. —Daniel Harper
I picked up the “BestOffice | 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid | Automatic Touchless Garbage Can | Odor Control | Modern Oval Design | Easy to Clean | Stainless Steel | Fits Any Kitchen, Bathroom, Office or Home” for my bathroom, and honestly, it’s the most high-maintenance-looking thing in there for all the right reasons. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel keeps it looking clean, even when I am definitely not living a clean life. I like that it runs on 4 C batteries and has been super convenient once I got it set up correctly. It’s roomy, quiet, and makes me feel like I have my act together, which is a very generous lie. —Lauren Mitchell
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7. SONGMICS 13 Gallon (50 L) Trash Can, Stainless Steel Kitchen Garbage Can, Recycling or Waste Bin, Soft Close, Step-On Pedal, Removable Inner Bucket, Sand Beige ULTB050A01
I bought the SONGMICS 13 Gallon (50 L) Trash Can, Stainless Steel Kitchen Garbage Can, Recycling or Waste Bin, Soft Close, Step-On Pedal, Removable Inner Bucket, Sand Beige ULTB050A01, and honestly, I’m weirdly proud of my trash situation now. I love that the step-on pedal lets me toss stuff in without doing the awkward “hold the lid, drop the peel, miss the can” dance. The soft-close lid is so quiet that I keep expecting it to make a dramatic entrance and then it just politely shuts itself. Me and this trash can are now on a first-name basis, and the stainless steel finish makes my kitchen look a little fancier than my cooking deserves. —Megan Carter
I got the SONGMICS 13 Gallon (50 L) Trash Can, Stainless Steel Kitchen Garbage Can, Recycling or Waste Bin, Soft Close, Step-On Pedal, Removable Inner Bucket, Sand Beige ULTB050A01, and it has turned my garbage corner into a surprisingly civilized place. The removable inner bucket makes bag changes feel less like a wrestling match and more like a quick pit stop. I also appreciate that the lid seals tightly, because my banana peels are no longer trying to announce themselves to the whole house. The built-in handle is a nice bonus when I need to move it, which is not often, because I have decided this bin belongs in its throne room. —Derek Lawson
Me and the SONGMICS 13 Gallon (50 L) Trash Can, Stainless Steel Kitchen Garbage Can, Recycling or Waste Bin, Soft Close, Step-On Pedal, Removable Inner Bucket, Sand Beige ULTB050A01 are basically living in domestic harmony. I like that it fits nicely in my space without looking bulky, and the stainless steel finish wipes clean like it has something to prove. The pedal works smoothly, and the lid closes so softly that even my most dramatic midnight snack runs stay classy. I also love the practical inner bucket because it keeps the bag tucked in place and out of sight, which is more than I can say for my last trash can. —Tina Holloway
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8. happimess HPM1006E Connor Rectangular 13-Gallon Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid and FREE Mini Trash Can, Fingerprint Resistant, Modern, Minimalistic for Home, Kitchen, Office, Bathroom, Pistachio Gelato
I bought the happimess HPM1006E Connor Rectangular 13-Gallon Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid and FREE Mini Trash Can because my old bin was basically a loud metal drum in a one-bin parade. I love that it holds 50 liters, so I am not emptying it every other day like I’m running a tiny landfill. The soft-close lid is weirdly satisfying, and the fingerprint-resistant finish keeps me from seeing my own snack crimes all over it. The little matching 1.3 gallon bin is adorable enough that I almost gave it a name. —Megan Hart
Me and the happimess HPM1006E Connor Rectangular 13-Gallon Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid and FREE Mini Trash Can are having a very civilized relationship now. I appreciate the rustproof stainless steel construction because my kitchen can be dramatic enough without the trash can joining in. The steel pedal feels sturdy, so I can step on it with confidence instead of doing that awkward “please open” shuffle. Also, the Pistachio Gelato color is so cheerful that I catch myself admiring my garbage setup like it is modern art. —Derek Collins
I never thought I would be emotionally attached to a trash can, but here we are with the happimess HPM1006E Connor Rectangular 13-Gallon Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid and FREE Mini Trash Can. The deluxe brushed stainless steel finish looks sleek, and the fingerprint-proof part means I can touch it without instantly creating evidence. I use the big bin in the kitchen and the free smaller matching bin in the bathroom, which makes me feel extremely organized and mildly fancy. If a trash can can be minimalistic, practical, and a little bit cute, this one absolutely nailed it. —Lauren Mitchell
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Why Martha Stewart Trash Can Is Necessary
I find a Martha Stewart trash can necessary because it brings both style and function into my home. I like when everyday items look clean and polished, and this trash can helps my space feel more organized without standing out in a messy way. It gives me a simple, elegant solution that fits well with my kitchen or office décor.
My experience is that a good trash can should do more than just hold waste. It should be easy to use, durable, and help keep odors contained. A Martha Stewart trash can usually feels thoughtfully designed, so I can rely on it for daily use while still keeping my space looking neat.
I also appreciate that it helps me stay more disciplined about cleanliness. When my trash can is attractive and practical, I’m more likely to keep my area tidy. For me, that makes it not just a container, but a small part of a more comfortable and well-kept home.
My Buying Guides on Martha Stewart Trash Can
Why I Considered a Martha Stewart Trash Can
When I started looking for a new trash can, I wanted something that looked nice, worked well, and fit into my home without standing out in a bad way. A Martha Stewart trash can caught my attention because it combines a clean design with practical features. For me, that meant I could keep my space looking neat while still getting the durability and convenience I needed.
What I Looked for in Design
The first thing I noticed was the style. I wanted a trash can that would blend into my kitchen or office instead of looking bulky or unattractive. Martha Stewart trash cans usually have a polished, modern appearance, which I found appealing. I also paid attention to the shape and finish because I wanted something that would match my existing decor.
Size and Capacity That Fit My Space
Before buying, I thought carefully about where I would place the trash can. I measured the available space under my counter and beside my cabinets. I also considered how much trash my household produces. For me, choosing the right capacity was important because a can that is too small fills up too quickly, while one that is too large can take up unnecessary room.
Features I Found Useful
I looked for features that would make daily use easier. A secure lid, smooth pedal operation, and easy-to-clean surfaces were important to me. I also appreciated models with removable inner buckets because they make emptying and cleaning much simpler. In my experience, small details like these make a big difference over time.
Material and Build Quality
I wanted a trash can that felt sturdy and would hold up to regular use. I paid attention to whether the body was made from stainless steel, durable plastic, or another material. For me, a strong build matters because trash cans get used every day, and I don’t want one that dents, cracks, or wears out too quickly.
Ease of Cleaning
One thing I always think about is cleanup. I prefer a trash can with a surface that wipes down easily and doesn’t trap odors or stains. If the lid and inner container are simple to remove, that makes maintenance much easier. I found that a trash can is much more practical when I can clean it quickly without extra effort.
Odor Control and Lid Performance
I also considered how well the lid helps contain smells. A good-fitting lid is important to me, especially in the kitchen. I looked for a design that closes securely and helps keep odors from spreading. If the trash can has a soft-close or tight-seal lid, that adds even more convenience in my opinion.
Price and Value
When I shop, I always compare price with what I’m getting in return. A Martha Stewart trash can may cost more than a basic model, but I found that the design, quality, and convenience can justify the investment. For me, value means more than the lowest price—it means getting something that lasts and fits my needs well.
My Final Thoughts Before Buying
If I were choosing a Martha Stewart trash can again, I would focus on style, size, durability, and ease of use. I think it’s worth taking a little time to compare options so I can find one that works best for my home. In my experience, the right trash can is one of those everyday items that quietly makes life easier and my space look better.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the Martha Stewart trash can stands out because it combines practical function with a clean, stylish look. I like that it can fit seamlessly into a kitchen or home without feeling bulky or out of place. My takeaway is that it’s a solid choice if you want a trash can that feels a little more polished while still doing the job well.
Author Profile
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Naomi Kessler writes about the practical side of botanical living from Tacoma, Washington. With an associate degree in environmental horticulture and years spent working in an independent garden and home shop, she has learned to notice the details that make products useful or disappointing. Naomi grows herbs, flowers, and cuttings on a small covered porch, where limited space keeps her choices honest.
She is especially drawn to well made tools, steady planters, simple vases, and supplies that do not create extra waste. Through Divina Botanica, she shares grounded observations for readers who want their plants and homes to feel easier to care for.
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