Why you should trust this review
I purchased the simplehuman 58L Rectangular Step Can at retail in mid-September 2025 to replace a $40 plastic step can that had failed at the lid hinge. simplehuman did not provide a sample. The can has been in busy kitchen daily use across 8 months including holiday hosting.
This review reflects simplehuman’s published specifications, Amazon’s aggregate of 4,280 owner reviews (averaging 4.7 of 5), and 8 months of direct use.
How we tested the simplehuman 58L
See /methodology for the standardized trash can evaluation protocol.
- Lid mechanism: Tracked silent-close performance over 8 months.
- Foot pedal: Verified consistent action across thousands of steps.
- Capacity: Used in busy family kitchen.
Who should buy the simplehuman 58L?
Buy this if:
- You want a primary kitchen trash can that lasts 10+ years.
- You appreciate silent-close mechanisms.
- You can budget more than basic plastic alternatives.
Skip this if:
- You have narrow kitchen space. The 45L slim version saves footprint.
- You are on a tight budget. Brabantia NewIcon at $149 is the European alternative.
Lid and foot pedal
The Lid Shox dampening makes silent close real, not marketing. The foot pedal feel is consistent across 8 months with no slop or stickiness.
Value
At $200 the simplehuman 58L Rectangular is the right premium kitchen trash can in 2026. For long-term family use, simplehuman is the answer.
simplehuman 58L Rectangular Step Trash Can vs. the competition
| Product | Our rating | Capacity | Lid | Origin | Price | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| simplehuman 58L Rectangular | ★★★★★ 4.7 | 58 L | Silent close | USA-design | $199 | Editor's Choice |
| simplehuman 45L Slim | ★★★★★ 4.7 | 45 L | Silent close | USA-design | $159 | Best Slim |
| Brabantia NewIcon Step 30L | ★★★★★ 4.6 | 30 L | Soft close | Netherlands | $149 | Best European |
| Generic plastic step can | ★★★★☆ 3.6 | Variable | Plastic hinge | Variable | $39 | Skip |
Full specifications
| Capacity | 58 L (15.3 gal) |
| Style | Rectangular step |
| Material | Fingerprint-proof brushed stainless steel |
| Lid | Lid Shox silent-close dampening |
| Pedal rating | 150,000 steps |
| Liner pocket | Built-in for spare bags |
| Liner code | Code N (custom-fit) |
| Dimensions | 16.7 x 13 x 25.6 in |
| Weight (empty) | 12 lb (5.4 kg) |
| Warranty | 10 year limited |
Should you buy the simplehuman 58L Rectangular Step Trash Can?
The simplehuman 58L rectangular step trash can is the kitchen trash can that justifies the premium price every time you open it. The lid closes silently with no slam, the foot pedal is rated for 150,000 steps without failure, the fingerprint-proof brushed steel resists smudges, and the 58L capacity holds a full week of family kitchen waste. After 8 months of busy kitchen use, the lid mechanism feels exactly as smooth as day one.
Frequently asked questions
Is the simplehuman 58L worth $200 in 2026?+
Yes for a primary kitchen trash can in a busy household. The silent-close lid, durable foot pedal, and 10-year warranty justify the premium. Cheap step cans break within 18 months and become annoying with slamming lids.
simplehuman vs Brabantia NewIcon: which should I get?+
Different priorities. The simplehuman has larger capacity (58 vs 30L) and silent-close. The Brabantia is more compact and uses regular trash bags (no proprietary liner).
Do I have to use simplehuman bags?+
No, but they fit perfectly. Standard 13-gallon kitchen bags fit but with extra material flopping over the rim. Code N custom-fit liners ($25 for 60 = ~$0.42 per bag) are pricier but cleaner.
Will the foot pedal really last 150,000 steps?+
On 5-10 daily uses (typical family), 150,000 steps is roughly 40-80 years of use. Realistically the can will outlast the kitchen renovation cycle.
📅 Update log
- May 9, 2026Added 8-month long-term observations.
- Sep 15, 2025Initial review published.
