Simplehuman 50 Liter Rectangular Kitchen Step Trash Can Review in Brushed Stainless Steel
Why This Product Is Worth a Look
A kitchen trash can is used many times a day, so small design choices can make a noticeable difference. The simplehuman 50 Liter Rectangular Kitchen Step Trash Can focuses on practical mechanical features, including hands-free opening, a slow-closing lid, a removable inner bucket, and a shape that can sit close to a wall. It does not rely on batteries, sensors, or app controls, making it worth considering for shoppers who prefer a straightforward design.
Product Overview
The simplehuman 50 Liter 13.0 Gallon Rectangular Kitchen Step Trash Can is a full-size waste bin intended primarily for kitchen use. Model CW1816 has a brushed stainless steel exterior, a steel foot pedal, an internal hinge, a removable plastic bucket, and built-in rear wheels.
Its listed dimensions are 19.8 inches wide, 12.8 inches deep, and 25.7 inches high with the lid closed. The empty can weighs approximately 16.5 pounds. Its 50-liter capacity is suitable for routine cooking, meal preparation, and household cleanup without moving into oversized commercial-bin territory.
This model is designed to work with simplehuman Code Q liners. Standard 13-gallon bags may also work, but their dimensions can vary, and some may require stretching around the inner bucket. The product includes a 10-year warranty, although buyers should review the warranty terms to understand what types of defects or damage are covered.
Design, Build, and Everyday Feel
The rectangular shape gives this trash can a clean, space-conscious appearance. Its straight sides, minimal seams, and brushed stainless steel finish should coordinate easily with many modern kitchen appliances. The liner is installed around the inner bucket rather than folded over the outside shell, helping the can maintain an orderly appearance.
The internal hinge is especially useful for placement. Because the hinge stays within the can’s footprint, the back can sit directly against a wall or cabinet without needing a large gap for the lid. However, the can still requires sufficient clearance above the lid and enough room in front to operate the pedal comfortably.
At nearly 26 inches tall and about 20 inches wide, this is not a compact bin. Measuring the intended location is important, especially if it will sit under a countertop overhang or in a narrow recess. Space is also needed to lift the inner bucket and remove a full bag.
The brushed finish is described as fingerprint resistant. This should help reduce the visibility of ordinary smudges, but it does not make the surface maintenance-free. Grease, food residue, scratches, and dents are still possible. The steel pedal and approximately 16.5-pound weight give the can a more substantial construction than a lightweight plastic model.
Key Features
The first key feature is the steel step pedal. Pressing the pedal activates a metal linkage that raises the lid without requiring hand contact. Simplehuman states that the pedal is engineered to withstand more than 150,000 steps. The main benefit is convenient hands-free opening while cooking or cleaning. As with any mechanical system, the claim describes the pedal’s design target rather than guaranteeing that every component will last for a specific number of years.
The second feature is the Lid Shox closing system. This mechanism controls the lid’s downward motion after the pedal is released, allowing it to close slowly instead of dropping with a loud metallic slam. The lid itself should be noticeably quieter, although the pedal, liner, and contents can still make some noise during use.
The third feature is the removable inner bucket with a raised resting position. The plastic bucket provides another layer of containment if a liner leaks and can be removed for separate cleaning. During bag changes, it can rest partially above the outer shell, giving the user better access to the rim. A possible limitation is that generic 13-gallon liners may fit more tightly than the dedicated Code Q liners.
The fourth feature is the combination of an internal hinge, stay-open function, non-skid base, and rear wheels. The hinge allows wall placement, while the manual stay-open tab keeps the lid raised during longer cleaning tasks. Rubber pads help stabilize the can and protect the floor, and the rear wheels assist with repositioning. The stay-open tab may require a firm push, and the wheel arrangement works best when there is enough space to tilt the can backward.
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What It May Be Like to Use
Based on the available product information, daily operation should be simple. Pressing the pedal opens the lid immediately, allowing scraps to be discarded without touching the top of the can. Releasing the pedal lets the damped mechanism lower the lid in a controlled motion.
During longer food preparation or cleanup sessions, the lid can be locked open manually. This may be convenient when clearing several plates or transferring scraps from a cutting board. Because the lock is located near the hinge, activating it requires hand contact and may take more pressure than some users expect.
For liner changes, the inner bucket can be lifted slightly and placed in its elevated resting position. This avoids holding the bucket in midair while securing a new bag. Once the liner is installed and excess material is tucked around the bucket, the bucket drops back into the steel housing and hides the liner edge.
The rear wheels should make short moves easier when sweeping or mopping. The user will still need to tilt the can, so pulling it out of a tight under-counter area may feel awkward if there is limited side or front access. Although the non-skid base helps resist movement during pedal use, placement against a wall may provide additional stability in homes with large, active pets.
What Works Well
Hands-free operation is a clear advantage. The pedal lets users open the can while holding a cutting board, dishes, or food waste, and there are no batteries to replace.
The controlled lid reduces slamming. This is useful in open kitchens, shared living spaces, and households where a freely falling metal lid would be disruptive.
The internal hinge makes efficient use of floor space. The can can sit close to a flat wall without the lid scraping the surface as it opens.
The removable bucket improves cleanup and spill containment. If a liner leaks, the mess is more likely to remain inside a washable plastic bucket rather than contacting the stainless steel shell.
The flush lid and concealed liner create a tidy appearance. The lid also offers fewer exposed edges for a pet to lift with its nose, although the can should not be considered fully pet-proof.
The steel pedal and metal linkage are designed for repeated use. Combined with the non-skid base, they should provide a stable, solid action during normal operation.
Things to Consider
Standard 13-gallon bags may not fit as easily as simplehuman Code Q liners. Some generic bags may need to be stretched around the bucket rim, and thin liners could tear if pulled too firmly.
The stay-open function is manual. The hinge-area tab can require deliberate pressure, so it may not be ideal for someone with limited hand strength or mobility.
The built-in wheels are located at the rear. They are helpful for tilt-and-roll movement but less convenient when the can is positioned in a narrow recess where tilting is difficult.
The stainless steel body is durable but not damage-proof. Large flat panels may dent during rough handling, and the brushed finish can still develop scratches or show food residue.
The 50-liter capacity and 16.5-pound empty weight may be more than some households need. A smaller or lighter model could be easier to manage in an apartment, kitchenette, or other restricted space.
The close-fitting lid can discourage casual pet access, but it does not lock. A determined animal may still interfere with the can, and a large pet could potentially knock it over if it stands unsupported away from a wall.
Who Is This Product For?
This trash can is a good match for households that want a full-size kitchen bin with durable mechanical controls rather than electronic sensors. It is particularly relevant for people who value quiet closing, hands-free opening, concealed liner edges, and a removable bucket for easier cleaning.
It may also suit kitchens where the bin needs to sit directly against a wall. The rectangular footprint and internal hinge make it more space-efficient in that specific placement than cans with external rear hinges.
It may be less suitable for very small kitchens, low-clearance locations, or households that want a lightweight bin. Buyers who strongly prefer inexpensive generic bags should also consider the potential fit difference. Anyone needing a locking or fully pet-resistant lid may want a model designed specifically for that purpose.
Helpful Tips Before You Buy
Measure the full placement area, not just the floor footprint. Check the 19.8-inch width, 12.8-inch depth, and 25.7-inch closed height, then allow additional clearance above for the open lid and bag removal.
Make sure there is enough room in front of the can to press the pedal naturally. If the bin will sit under a counter or in a recess, confirm that it can be tilted backward to use the rear wheels.
Decide which liners you plan to use before purchasing a large supply. Code Q liners are designed for the bucket, while standard 13-gallon bags may vary in width, height, and stretch.
Clean the stainless steel with a soft microfiber cloth, warm water, and mild detergent. Wipe in the direction of the brushed grain and avoid abrasive pads, harsh polishes, bleach, or acidic cleaners that could affect the finish.
Remove and wash the plastic inner bucket if a bag leaks. Allow it to dry before inserting a new liner. Food waste should still be emptied as needed rather than left until the bag reaches maximum capacity.
Inspect the can soon after delivery. Stainless steel panels can be cosmetically dented during rough transit, and identifying damage early makes it easier to address.
Common Questions
Does it require batteries?
No. The lid is operated mechanically through the foot pedal, and the stay-open function is manual.
Can it sit directly against a wall?
Yes. The internal hinge is designed to let the can sit close to a wall without requiring extra space behind it for lid movement. It still needs clearance above.
Do regular 13-gallon trash bags fit?
Some standard 13-gallon liners may fit, but the shape can vary by brand. They may need to be stretched around the bucket rim. Simplehuman Code Q liners are designed specifically for this model.
Is the lid completely silent?
The Lid Shox mechanism slows the closing motion and helps prevent slamming. Other sounds from the pedal, liner, or trash are still possible.
Is it pet-proof?
The flush lid gives pets fewer exposed edges to lift, but the can does not have a locking lid. It should not be treated as fully pet-proof.
Can the inner bucket be removed?
Yes. The plastic bucket is removable for cleaning and includes an elevated resting position intended to make liner changes easier.
Final Thoughts
The simplehuman 50 Liter Rectangular Kitchen Step Trash Can combines a durable steel pedal, controlled lid movement, an internal hinge, and a removable bucket in a clean brushed stainless steel body. Its strongest qualities are practical rather than technological: it opens without hand contact, closes without a sharp slam, sits close to a wall, and provides better access during liner changes.
The main compromises are the potentially tight fit of generic liners, the firm manual stay-open tab, and rear-wheel mobility that can be awkward in confined spaces. It is also a relatively large and substantial trash can, so careful measuring is essential.
Overall, this model is a sensible option for households seeking a full-size, mechanically operated kitchen trash can with a quiet lid and organized appearance. It is best suited to buyers who prioritize build quality and everyday convenience and who are comfortable using fitted liners or checking generic bag dimensions before purchase.
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