simplehuman 45 Liter Rectangular Hands-Free Step Trash Can

In this review of the simplehuman 45 Liter rectangular step can, the bottom line is clear: this is a well-made kitchen can for buyers who want a tidy, low-maintenance bin with a reliably quiet lid. The can's biggest selling point is the silent close lid mechanism, which really minimizes kitchen noise and feels durable in daily use. Reviewers who value cleaner presentation, easy bag changes and a pedal that lasts will find this can worth considering; those needing a heavy-duty metal lid or a built-in inner bucket should look at alternatives.

Key Features

• Stainless steel liner rim: The rim flips up to secure a liner quickly and keeps the bag hidden from sight for a neater appearance.
• Liner pocket: Internal storage dispenses liners one by one so refills are fast and there is no unraveling inside the can.
• Strong steel pedal: The pedal is engineered for longevity and is rated for many thousands of steps, so daily use is unlikely to wear it out quickly.
• Silent close lid: Patented Lid Shox technology controls lid motion for a slow, quiet close that prevents slams and reduces noise in the kitchen.
• Dent-proof plastic lid: The plastic lid resists dents and does not show fingerprints easily, keeping the unit looking cleaner over time.

Who It's For

This can is aimed at homeowners and renters who want a kitchen trash can that looks tidy and is simple to maintain; the liner pocket and stainless steel rim make bag changes quicker and more discreet, which suits busy kitchens. The quiet lid is a strong match for open-plan homes where slamming lids can be disruptive.

It is less suited to buyers who need an inner metal bucket for frequent heavy-duty cleaning or those who prefer a fully metal lid. Some reviewers noted occasional concerns about lid durability, so anyone expecting industrial-level abuse might want to consider heavier commercial options.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Well-designed liner management with a pocket and rim that simplify bag changes and keep liners hidden.
• Soft, controlled lid movement thanks to patented silent close technology, reducing noise.
• Durable-feeling pedal built from steel for long service life under regular household use.
• Plastic lid resists dents and hides fingerprints better than many metal lids.

Cons

• Some customers report occasional durability issues with the lid mechanism over long periods of heavy use.
• The lack of an inner bucket may be a drawback for those who prefer removable liners or easier deep cleaning.

Specifications

Capacity	45 Liter / 12 Gallon
Shape	Rectangular
Operation	Hands-free step pedal
Lid	Soft-close dent-proof plastic lid with Lid Shox
Liner system	Stainless steel liner rim and internal liner pocket
Construction	Brushed stainless steel body with plastic lid

Our Verdict

The simplehuman 45 Liter step can is a practical, well-engineered choice for kitchens where appearance, quiet operation and easy bag changes matter. It represents good value for household use because of the durable pedal and convenient liner storage, though buyers seeking an inner bucket or all-metal lid should compare other models.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does it hold standard kitchen trash bags?
Yes, the 45 Liter / 12 Gallon size accommodates regular kitchen trash bags and many customers report it fits common bag sizes.

Is the lid noisy or does it slam?
No, the patented Lid Shox provides a silent close that prevents slamming and offers a slow, controlled motion.

Are liners stored inside the can?
Yes, there is an internal liner pocket that stores and dispenses liners one at a time for easier refills.