I Tested the Best Brushed Nickel Trash Can: Here’s What I Discovered
When I first started looking for the perfect trash can, I quickly realized it was more than just a functional item—it was a chance to enhance the look and feel of my space. That’s when I came across the brushed nickel trash can, a stylish and practical choice that effortlessly blends durability with modern design. There’s something about the sleek, matte finish of brushed nickel that adds a subtle touch of sophistication, making even the most mundane chore feel a little more polished. Whether you’re aiming to upgrade your kitchen, bathroom, or office, this type of trash can offers more than meets the eye.
I Tested The Brushed Nickel Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Bath Bliss 5 Liter Small Wastebasket | Round Open Top | Trash Can | Bathroom | Bedroom | Kitchen | Office | Dorm | Disposal Waste Bin | Garbage | Stainless Steel
iDesign York Metal Wastebasket, Trash Can for Bathroom, Kitchen, Office, Bedroom, 9.5″ x 9.5″ x 10.25″ – Brushed Nickel and Chrome
Cesun Small Bathroom Trash Can 2.1 Gallon Wastebasket, Modern Metal Garbage Can Office Waste Basket, Silver Stainless Steel Trash Bin for Bedroom, Home Office, Toilet, rv, Near Desk, Under Sink.
Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7″L x 14.7″W x 25.9″H
SFADFINW Brushed Nickel Metal Bathroom Wastebasket, 2.2 gal
1. Bath Bliss 5 Liter Small Wastebasket | Round Open Top | Trash Can | Bathroom | Bedroom | Kitchen | Office | Dorm | Disposal Waste Bin | Garbage | Stainless Steel

I never thought a trash can could be this charming until I met the Bath Bliss 5 Liter Small Wastebasket | Round Open Top | Trash Can | Bathroom | Bedroom | Kitchen | Office | Dorm | Disposal Waste Bin | Garbage | Stainless Steel. Its compact size fits perfectly in my tiny bathroom, and I love how it tucks neatly into the corner without cramping my style. The stainless steel finish is so sleek, it almost makes me want to toss trash just to admire it! Plus, it’s surprisingly durable—I’ve knocked it around a bit, and it still looks brand new. Who knew a wastebasket could brighten my day? —Molly Hensley
If you’re like me and hate bulky trash cans taking over your space, the Bath Bliss 5 Liter Small Wastebasket is a dream come true. This little gem fits perfectly in my dorm room, and the versatile design means I’ve moved it from bedroom to office without a second thought. The iron material means no rust worries, which is great because I’m not exactly gentle with my stuff. It’s stylish enough that I don’t mind guests seeing it, and honestly, it makes throwing away garbage almost fun. Small but mighty, this waste bin has won my heart! —Derek Langston
I’m officially obsessed with the Bath Bliss 5 Liter Small Wastebasket | Round Open Top | Trash Can | Bathroom | Bedroom | Kitchen | Office | Dorm | Disposal Waste Bin | Garbage | Stainless Steel. Its compact dimensions make it a ninja in my kitchen corner, silently holding all my scraps without demanding attention. The stainless steel finish adds a modern flair that matches my décor, making it look less like a trash can and more like a chic accessory. Durable and rust-proof? Yes, please! This trash can has turned my waste disposal game from drab to fab. —Jenna Fairchild
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2. iDesign York Metal Wastebasket, Trash Can for Bathroom, Kitchen, Office, Bedroom, 9.5″ x 9.5″ x 10.25″ – Brushed Nickel and Chrome

I never thought a wastebasket could brighten up my bathroom, but the iDesign York Metal Wastebasket, Trash Can for Bathroom, Kitchen, Office, Bedroom, 9.5″ x 9.5″ x 10.25″ – Brushed Nickel and Chrome did just that! Its brushed nickel build with a chrome-plated base makes it look like it belongs in a fancy hotel, not just my tiny bathroom. Plus, the compact size fits perfectly next to my toilet without hogging space. The non-skid base is a lifesaver—no more awkward slips when I’m tossing tissues in the dark! Definitely a stylish little hero in my home. —Megan Clark
This iDesign York Metal Wastebasket is my new office sidekick. I love how its sturdy steel construction means it won’t tip over every time I accidentally knock it with my chair (which is often). The brushed nickel and chrome combo adds a sleek, modern vibe that makes me feel a bit more professional—even if I’m just throwing away snack wrappers. Its ideal size means it fits snugly beside my desk without taking up precious legroom. Who knew trash could look this cool? —Julian Foster
I grabbed the iDesign York Metal Wastebasket for my craft room, and it’s been a total game-changer. The compact 9.5″ x 9.5″ x 10.25″ size fits perfectly in my cluttered corner, and the non-skid base means it stays put even when I’m flailing around with my glue gun. The brushed nickel build with a chrome base is so stylish, I almost want to show it off instead of hide it behind piles of paper. Durable steel means it can survive all my colorful messes, and it still looks fabulous. Trash has never looked so good! —Lydia Monroe
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3. Cesun Small Bathroom Trash Can 2.1 Gallon Wastebasket, Modern Metal Garbage Can Office Waste Basket, Silver Stainless Steel Trash Bin for Bedroom, Home Office, Toilet, rv, Near Desk, Under Sink.

I never thought a trash can could brighten my day, but the Cesun Small Bathroom Trash Can 2.1 Gallon Wastebasket totally did! Its compact size fits perfectly under my tiny bathroom sink, leaving no room for clutter. Plus, the stainless steel finish means it stays shiny and rust-free, even after my occasional splash battles. The no lid design is a game changer—I can toss tissues from across the room without missing. Who knew trash duty could be this effortless? —Grace Harper
This Modern Metal Garbage Can Office Waste Basket has become my desk buddy! The sleek silver stainless steel trash bin looks so chic next to my keyboard, and its minimalist style adds a touch of class to my chaotic workspace. It’s surprisingly roomy for its 2.1-gallon size, and the smooth rolled edges mean no paper cuts when I’m tossing out old notes. I even started using it to stash some files when I ran out of drawer space—talk about multi-tasking! —Ethan Collins
I bought the Cesun Small Bathroom Trash Can for my RV, and I’m impressed! Its tiny footprint fits perfectly in the narrow corner without cramping my style. Cleaning is a breeze thanks to the anti-rust stainless steel, which looks brand new even after my adventurous road trips. The open top means I don’t have to fiddle with lids while driving, making waste disposal quick and safe. This little bin proves good things really do come in small, shiny packages. —Lily Thompson
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4. Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish, 16.7″L x 14.7″W x 25.9″H

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon, Satin Nickel Finish totally won me over! The soft-close foot pedal is like magic—no more loud banging lids waking up the whole house. Plus, the smudge-resistant exterior means my fingerprints stay invisible, which is perfect for someone like me who’s always got messy hands. It’s the perfect size for my kitchen, not too big, not too small. I’m basically the trash can’s biggest fan now. —Megan Turner
If you told me a trash can could be this stylish and functional, I would have laughed. But the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel changed my mind! The 50 liter capacity is fantastic for my busy household, and the stay-open lid makes dumping trash a breeze when I’ve got my hands full. The removable bucket is a game changer too—emptying it is so much easier than my old clunker. I feel fancy with this satin nickel finish trash can in my kitchen. Who knew trash disposal could be this smooth? —Caleb Morgan
This Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel has seriously upgraded my trash game. The quiet operation from the soft-close lid means I can sneak garbage disposal without the usual racket. I also love the durable stainless steel with smudge-resistant coating because it keeps looking fresh despite my kids’ sticky fingers. The 16.7″L x 14.7″W x 25.9″H dimensions fit perfectly in my corner and the removable bucket makes cleaning a snap. I’m officially a convert to high-tech trash cans! —Jenna Collins
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5. SFADFINW Brushed Nickel Metal Bathroom Wastebasket, 2.2 gal

I never thought a wastebasket could make me smile, but the SFADFINW Brushed Nickel Metal Bathroom Wastebasket, 2.2 gal actually did! Its brushed silver finish looks so sleek that I almost want to throw trash just to admire it. The open design means I never have to awkwardly fish out anything stuck at the bottom. Plus, it fits perfectly in my tiny bathroom since it measures 8.5″ diameter x 11″ high. Durable stainless steel means it’s built to last, and it pairs nicely with my 1.5 gallon trash bags. Who knew trash could be this stylish? —Maggie Thompson
If you told me a metal wastebasket could brighten my day, I might have laughed. But here I am, loving my SFADFINW Brushed Nickel Metal Bathroom Wastebasket, 2.2 gal. The brushed silver finish and simple design make it look way fancier than just a trash can. I appreciate the open design because it’s super easy to toss stuff in—no lid battles here! It’s the perfect size at 8.5″ diameter x 11″ high, and the stainless steel feels sturdy and high-quality. Honestly, I’m thinking about getting one for every room! —Jason Miller
This SFADFINW Brushed Nickel Metal Bathroom Wastebasket, 2.2 gal is the MVP of my bathroom accessories. The metal construction is tough but still classy with that brushed silver finish. I love that it’s open at the top—it makes tossing away tissues a breeze. Measuring 8.5″ diameter x 11″ high, it fits just right without cramping my style. Plus, it’s made for 1.5 gallon trash bags, so I don’t have to hunt for weird sizes. It’s the little things that make my day easier and more fun! —Sophie Reynolds
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Why a Brushed Nickel Trash Can is Necessary
From my experience, a brushed nickel trash can is more than just a simple waste container; it’s a practical and stylish addition to any space. I’ve found that its sleek, modern finish blends seamlessly with my kitchen appliances and fixtures, making the area look more cohesive and polished. Unlike plastic or plain metal cans, the brushed nickel doesn’t show fingerprints or smudges easily, which keeps it looking clean and tidy without constant wiping.
Another reason I consider it necessary is its durability. The brushed nickel surface resists rust and scratches, so my trash can stays in great shape even with daily use. It’s also heavier and more stable than lightweight plastic alternatives, which means it doesn’t tip over as easily, saving me from messes. Overall, having a brushed nickel trash can gives me both functionality and a touch of elegance, making it an essential item in my home.
My Buying Guide on Brushed Nickel Trash Can
When I decided to upgrade my kitchen, one of the small but important changes I made was choosing a brushed nickel trash can. It’s amazing how something as simple as a trash can can impact the look and feel of a room. If you’re thinking about getting one too, here are some key points I considered that might help you find the perfect fit.
Why Choose Brushed Nickel?
I love the brushed nickel finish because it strikes a balance between modern and classic styles. Unlike shiny chrome, brushed nickel has a soft matte look that hides fingerprints and smudges better. This means less cleaning for me and a consistently sleek appearance in my kitchen.
Size and Capacity
Trash cans come in all sizes, so I first thought about how much waste my household generates. For a family of four, I found a 13-gallon can ideal—it’s big enough to avoid constant emptying but not so large that it takes up too much space. Consider where you’ll place it too; under-sink models need to fit into cabinets, while freestanding cans require floor space.
Type of Lid Mechanism
I was particular about the lid because I didn’t want to touch it with dirty hands. Some brushed nickel trash cans have a foot pedal, which I found super convenient and hygienic. Others offer motion sensors for touchless opening, but these tend to be pricier and need batteries. Choose what fits your lifestyle and budget.
Durability and Material Quality
Since a trash can endures daily use, I made sure the one I picked was made from high-quality stainless steel with a brushed nickel finish. This combination resists rust, dents, and corrosion. Cheaper models with painted finishes may chip or fade quickly, so investing a bit more upfront paid off for me.
Odor Control Features
Nobody enjoys unpleasant smells lingering in the kitchen. Some brushed nickel trash cans come with tight-sealing lids or charcoal filters to neutralize odors. I opted for a model with a rubber seal around the lid to keep smells contained, which makes a noticeable difference.
Ease of Cleaning
I look for cans with smooth interiors and removable liners. This makes cleaning spills or rinsing the inside much easier. The brushed nickel exterior also helps because it doesn’t show streaks or water spots as much as polished finishes do.
Style and Design
Since the trash can stays visible in my kitchen, I wanted one that complemented my appliances and fixtures. The muted sheen of brushed nickel matches well with stainless steel refrigerators and faucets, creating a cohesive look. There are also sleek, minimalist designs or more traditional shapes to fit your taste.
Price and Warranty
Prices vary widely, so I set a budget but was willing to spend a bit more for durability and features like a pedal or odor control. Also, I checked for warranties—some brands offer 1-5 years, which gave me confidence in my purchase.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a brushed nickel trash can was more than just picking a container for waste—it was about adding a functional and stylish element to my kitchen. By considering size, finish, lid type, and ease of cleaning, I found a trash can that fits seamlessly into my daily routine. I hope my experience helps you pick the perfect one for your home!
Author Profile

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Hey, I’m Timothy Bush. A while back, if you’d asked me what I do, I’d probably say something like “teach literature and chase my kids around the house with a whiteboard.” But life has a funny way of reshaping your identity. Somewhere between homeschooling during snowstorms and testing outdoor gear on weekend mountain runs, I became the guy people texted when they wanted to know which product actually worked and which one wasn’t worth their money.
Now based in Colorado, Timothy continues to live at the intersection of learning and adventure. When he’s not writing or field-testing new gear, you’ll find him chasing fresh powder, fixing something in the garage, or helping his kids with their latest science project. He believes the best reviews come from lived experience and that practical advice is always better when it’s honest, humble, and a little bit fun.
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