simplehuman
simplehuman 55L Rectangular Step Can with liner Pocket
A large-capacity kitchen step can from simplehuman, built around a 55-litre rectangular bin with a concealed liner pocket to keep bags tidy and out of sight.
Shopi's verdict
The simplehuman 55L Rectangular Step Can is a strong choice for busy kitchens that generate a lot of waste, offering generous capacity and a built-in liner pocket that makes bag changes genuinely less annoying. Brushed stainless steel looks sharp but will show fingerprints over time, and the price sits well above budget alternatives. Worth it for those who want a durable, well-engineered can they won't need to replace; overkill if you just need something basic.
### Overview
A premium-tier kitchen trash can built around two practical engineering choices: eliminating the inner bucket in favor of a steel liner rim, and storing replacement liners inside the can itself. simplehuman sizes the 55L for households of 3–5 people, with an expected emptying cadence of every 3–4 days. The brushed stainless steel finish is priced at $200, putting it firmly in the premium segment — a price that reflects build quality and a long warranty rather than just aesthetics.
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### Pros
- **Built-in liner storage:** The liner pocket stores and dispenses a full 20-pack of Code Q custom fit liners from inside the can, so you're never hunting through a cabinet mid-chore — a small convenience that adds up daily. - **More usable interior space:** The liner rim holds the liner in place, eliminating the need for an inner bucket — freeing up roughly 25% more room for trash compared to traditional step cans of the same footprint. - **Silent, slow-close lid:** The patented Lid Shox® technology controls the motion of the lid for a slow, silent close every time — a meaningful quality-of-life upgrade in open-plan kitchens or late-night use. - **Fingerprint-resistant finish:** The invisible fingerprint-proof coating is infused with Agion®, an EPA-registered antimicrobial agent proven to inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, mold, and mildew on the stainless steel surface — keeping the exterior looking clean with minimal wiping.
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### Cons
- **Ongoing liner cost:** The Code Q custom fit liners are tailored to fit this can perfectly, which means third-party bags may bunch or slip — effectively locking you into simplehuman's proprietary liner ecosystem at an added recurring expense. - **Premium price point:** At $200, this is one of the more expensive step cans on the market; buyers who don't need the liner pocket system or Lid Shox can find capable alternatives at a fraction of the cost. - **Lid mechanism requires maintenance:** The steel chrome rod at the rear of the unit may need periodic lubrication with WD-40 or a similar lubricant to keep the lid operating smoothly over time. - **Hands-on lid design:** Unlike simplehuman's sensor cans, this is a step-pedal model — it requires foot contact to open, which may be a limitation for users with mobility considerations.
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### Who It's For
This can is a strong fit for busy households that empty the trash frequently and want to streamline the whole process — from the quiet close to the quick liner swap. The lid stays open hands-free for longer chores like meal prep and unloading groceries, making it especially practical for active home cooks. It's backed by a 10-year warranty, so buyers who view it as a long-term kitchen investment rather than a disposable purchase will get the most value here.
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### Not Right For
Budget-conscious shoppers or anyone unwilling to commit to proprietary liners — the ongoing cost of Code Q bags makes the total cost of ownership meaningfully higher than it appears at checkout.
Researched across 8 sources: simplehuman.com, amazon.com, cmecorp.com, store.simplehuman.com, homedepot.com.
Key features
- 55L capacity
- liner pocket
- rectangular form
- brushed stainless steel
The liner pocket is a small detail that makes a genuine difference to everyday use.
What stands out
- 55-litre capacity suits busy households or larger kitchens where frequent emptying is a nuisance
- Liner pocket hides and secures the bin bag, preventing it from slipping or bunching
- Rectangular footprint makes efficient use of corner or cabinet-side space
- Brushed stainless steel finish resists fingerprints and holds up to daily kitchen wear
What to weigh
- Stainless steel construction puts it at a higher price point than basic plastic alternatives
- Large footprint may feel intrusive in smaller kitchens
- Replacement liner bags are a recurring cost if using simplehuman's own branded liners
Great fit if
- Households that generate a high volume of waste and want to empty the bin less often
- Anyone frustrated by bin bags that slip down inside the can
- Kitchens where a clean, minimal aesthetic matters
Skip it if
- Small kitchens or flats where floor space is tight
- Shoppers looking for the lowest possible upfront cost on a waste bin