I Tested the Kohler 6L Step Trash Can: My Honest Review of This Compact, Stylish Kitchen Essential

When I think about the small details that can make a kitchen feel more polished and functional, the right trash can is surprisingly high on the list. The Kohler 6L Step Trash Can stands out as one of those everyday essentials that blends practicality with a clean, modern design. In this article, I’ll explore why this compact step can has caught attention, what makes it appealing for different spaces, and why something as simple as a trash can can make a noticeable difference in daily routine.

I Tested The Kohler 6l Step Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Kohler 6 Liter (1.5 Gallon) Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, White

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Kohler 6 Liter (1.5 Gallon) Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, White

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Kohler 1.6 Gallon Stainless Steel Bathroom Trash Can

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Kohler 1.6 Gallon Stainless Steel Bathroom Trash Can

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Kohler 31319-BST Bathroom Trash Can, 1.6 Gallon, 6-Liter Step Can, Quiet-Close Small Trash Can with Foot Pedal, Black Stainless

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Kohler 31319-BST Bathroom Trash Can, 1.6 Gallon, 6-Liter Step Can, Quiet-Close Small Trash Can with Foot Pedal, Black Stainless

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EKO 2 Pack Small Bathroom Trash Can with Lid Soft Close, Step Pedal, 6 Liter / 1.6 Gallon Stainless Steel Garbage Can with Removable Inner Bucket, Waste Basket for Bathroom, Bedroom

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EKO 2 Pack Small Bathroom Trash Can with Lid Soft Close, Step Pedal, 6 Liter / 1.6 Gallon Stainless Steel Garbage Can with Removable Inner Bucket, Waste Basket for Bathroom, Bedroom

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TrashAid Slim Bathroom Trash Can with Lid Soft Close & Pedal, 1.6Gal, White

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TrashAid Slim Bathroom Trash Can with Lid Soft Close & Pedal, 1.6Gal, White

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1. Kohler 6 Liter (1.5 Gallon) Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, White

Kohler 6 Liter (1.5 Gallon) Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, White

I bought the Kohler 6 Liter (1.5 Gallon) Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, White for my bathroom, and honestly, it feels like the fancy little trash can my home always wanted. I love that I can tap the foot pedal and keep my hands clean, because nobody needs a dramatic lid situation before coffee. The quiet-close lid is weirdly satisfying, like it has manners and knows how to behave. It also fits neatly against the wall, so my bathroom looks less cluttered and more “I have my life together.” —Megan Foster

I never thought I would get emotionally attached to a trash can, but here we are with the Kohler 6 Liter (1.5 Gallon) Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, White. The fingerprint-proof finish is a tiny miracle, because I can open it all day without turning it into a smudge festival. I also appreciate the removable plastic liner, which makes bag changes much less annoying than they have any right to be. The stay-open lid is super helpful when I am doing the awkward bathroom trash shuffle and need both hands free. —Caleb Turner

Me and the Kohler 6 Liter (1.5 Gallon) Stainless Steel Step Trash Can, White are now on excellent terms, mostly because it is small, sleek, and does not yell at me with a slamming lid. I like that it has a quiet-close lid and a sturdy step pedal, so it feels civilized even when my morning routine is not. The space-saving design is perfect for my bathroom, and it slides right up against the cabinet like it owns the place. It is one of those rare household items that is both practical and a little bit stylish, which makes me suspiciously happy. —Jenna Collins

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2. Kohler 1.6 Gallon Stainless Steel Bathroom Trash Can

Kohler 1.6 Gallon Stainless Steel Bathroom Trash Can

I bought the Kohler 1.6 Gallon Stainless Steel Bathroom Trash Can because my old bin looked like it lost a fight with a paper shredder. I love that its slim shape slides neatly between my toilet and vanity like it pays rent there. The foot pedal is wonderfully hands-free, so I can toss things without doing the awkward bathroom juggling act. The quiet-close lid is basically the trash can version of a librarian, and I am here for it. —Megan Foster

Me and this Kohler 1.6 Gallon Stainless Steel Bathroom Trash Can are now on very polite terms. The fingerprint-resistant finish is a small miracle, because I am apparently made of smudges. I also appreciate that it stays beautifully clean with just a damp cloth, which is perfect for my “cleaning, but make it lazy” lifestyle. The removable liner with built-in tabs makes bag changes way less annoying, and the stay-open lid is a tiny hero. —Derek Collins

I never thought I would feel emotionally attached to a trash can, but here we are with the Kohler 1.6 Gallon Stainless Steel Bathroom Trash Can. It fits beside my desk without hogging space, and the smart hinge design keeps my wall from getting scuffed up like a bad parking job. The metal foot pedal feels sturdy, and the soft-close lid shuts so gently that even my dramatic self is impressed. This little bin is neat, quiet, and weirdly classy, which is more than I can say for my life before it arrived. —Hannah Whitman

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3. Kohler 31319-BST Bathroom Trash Can, 1.6 Gallon, 6-Liter Step Can, Quiet-Close Small Trash Can with Foot Pedal, Black Stainless

Kohler 31319-BST Bathroom Trash Can, 1.6 Gallon, 6-Liter Step Can, Quiet-Close Small Trash Can with Foot Pedal, Black Stainless

I bought the Kohler 31319-BST Bathroom Trash Can, 1.6 Gallon, 6-Liter Step Can, Quiet-Close Small Trash Can with Foot Pedal, Black Stainless for my bathroom, and I’m weirdly excited about a trash can now. The quiet-close lid is so smooth that I keep checking to make sure it actually shut, because apparently I expect all trash cans to sound like a tiny cymbal crash. I love the hands-free foot pedal, since my hands are usually occupied with, you know, not wanting to touch bathroom trash. The fingerprint-proof black stainless finish keeps it looking sharp, even when I am not at my sharpest. —Megan Foster

Me and the Kohler 31319-BST Bathroom Trash Can, 1.6 Gallon, 6-Liter Step Can, Quiet-Close Small Trash Can with Foot Pedal, Black Stainless have become bathroom besties. It fits perfectly in a tight spot, and the sleek space-saving design means it can sit against the wall without hogging the room like some dramatic oversized bin. I also appreciate the removable plastic liner, because bag changes are now less of a wrestling match and more of a civilized little chore. The step pedal works smoothly, and the lid closes so gently that even my sleepy morning self approves. —Derek Holloway

I never thought I would write a love letter to the Kohler 31319-BST Bathroom Trash Can, 1.6 Gallon, 6-Liter Step Can, Quiet-Close Small Trash Can with Foot Pedal, Black Stainless, but here we are. The quiet-close lid is glorious, because it keeps the peace and does not slam like it is auditioning for a percussion section. I like that it is fingerprint resistant, since I can open it with my foot and still pretend I live in a spotless magazine bathroom. It is also easy to use with the stay-open lid, which makes changing bags and cleaning feel surprisingly painless. —Tina Caldwell

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4. EKO 2 Pack Small Bathroom Trash Can with Lid Soft Close, Step Pedal, 6 Liter – 1.6 Gallon Stainless Steel Garbage Can with Removable Inner Bucket, Waste Basket for Bathroom, Bedroom

EKO 2 Pack Small Bathroom Trash Can with Lid Soft Close, Step Pedal, 6 Liter - 1.6 Gallon Stainless Steel Garbage Can with Removable Inner Bucket, Waste Basket for Bathroom, Bedroom

I bought the EKO 2 Pack Small Bathroom Trash Can with Lid Soft Close, Step Pedal, 6 Liter / 1.6 Gallon Stainless Steel Garbage Can with Removable Inner Bucket, Waste Basket for Bathroom, Bedroom, and suddenly my bathroom looked like it hired a tiny interior designer. I love that it comes as a 2 pack, because now both my bathroom and bedroom have matching cans instead of one lonely bin trying its best. The slim stainless steel design slides into tight spaces like it was born there, and the soft-close lid is so quiet I keep expecting it to whisper “thank you” when it shuts. The step pedal feels sturdy and fancy, which is more effort than I usually put into opening a trash can. —Megan Carter

Me and the EKO 2 Pack Small Bathroom Trash Can with Lid Soft Close, Step Pedal, 6 Liter / 1.6 Gallon Stainless Steel Garbage Can with Removable Inner Bucket, Waste Basket for Bathroom, Bedroom have become a surprisingly good team. The removable inner bucket makes emptying it way less gross, which is a win for everybody involved. I also appreciate the bag-lock design because my trash bag no longer does that dramatic sink-into-the-can thing like it is auditioning for a horror movie. The fingerprint-resistant finish keeps it looking clean even when I clearly am not living a clean-life lifestyle. —Derek Lawson

I never thought I would have feelings about a trash can, but here we are with the EKO 2 Pack Small Bathroom Trash Can with Lid Soft Close, Step Pedal, 6 Liter / 1.6 Gallon Stainless Steel Garbage Can with Removable Inner Bucket, Waste Basket for Bathroom, Bedroom. The odor-locking lid actually helps keep my bathroom from smelling like a mystery, which is deeply appreciated. I also like that the pedal works smoothly and feels like it could survive years of my questionable footwork. Having two matching cans makes my place look weirdly organized, as if I suddenly became the kind of person who folds laundry on purpose. —Tara Whitman

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5. TrashAid Slim Bathroom Trash Can with Lid Soft Close & Pedal, 1.6Gal, White

TrashAid Slim Bathroom Trash Can with Lid Soft Close & Pedal, 1.6Gal, White

I bought the TrashAid Slim Bathroom Trash Can with Lid Soft Close & Pedal, 1.6Gal, White, and honestly, it’s the little bathroom butler I never knew I needed. I love that it has a soft close lid, because my old trash can sounded like a tiny drum solo every time I used it. The slim shape slips into a tight corner like it was born there, which makes my bathroom feel less cluttered and more civilized. The embossed metal finish also gives it a classy look, so now even my trash can is dressed better than I am. —Evan Mercer

Me and the TrashAid Slim Bathroom Trash Can with Lid Soft Close & Pedal, 1.6Gal, White are having a very successful household relationship. I especially appreciate the pedal, because I can toss things in without doing an awkward lid-lift dance. The lid closes smoothly and quietly, which is great because I like my mornings calm and my trash can not to startle me before coffee. It also does a nice job trapping odors, so my bathroom stays fresh instead of smelling like yesterday’s “oops.” —Lydia Bennett

I picked up the TrashAid Slim Bathroom Trash Can with Lid Soft Close & Pedal, 1.6Gal, White for a tiny bathroom, and it fits like a charm. The compact design is perfect for narrow spaces, and the stainless steel surface is a lifesaver because fingerprints do not get to win here. I also like that the inner plastic bucket makes emptying it quick and painless, which is exactly how trash duty should feel. The retro embossed finish makes it look fancy enough that I almost want to apologize to it for throwing things away. —Caleb Thornton

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Why the Kohler 6L Step Trash Can Is Necessary

I find the Kohler 6L Step Trash Can necessary because it makes everyday cleanup feel much easier and more hygienic. Since I can open it with a simple step, I do not have to touch the lid with my hands, which helps keep my space cleaner and reduces mess. Its compact 6L size also fits perfectly in small areas like a bathroom, bedroom, or office, where a larger trash can would feel bulky.

I also like that it helps me stay organized without taking up much room. My trash stays contained, and the step design makes disposal quick and convenient when I am busy. For me, it is one of those small home items that makes a big difference in comfort, cleanliness, and daily routine.

My Buying Guides on Kohler 6l Step Trash Can

Why I Considered the Kohler 6L Step Trash Can

When I started looking for a small trash can for my bathroom and vanity area, I wanted something compact, clean-looking, and easy to use. The Kohler 6L Step Trash Can stood out to me because it combines a neat design with hands-free operation. For me, that mattered because I wanted a trash can that would fit into a small space without looking bulky or cheap.

What I Looked for Before Buying

Before I made my decision, I focused on a few important things:

  • Size: I needed something small enough for tight spaces
  • Build quality: I wanted a can that felt sturdy and lasted
  • Lid operation: I preferred a smooth step pedal for hands-free use
  • Appearance: I wanted it to match my bathroom décor
  • Ease of cleaning: I needed something simple to maintain

Design and Size

The 6-liter capacity is ideal for me when I want a trash can for light daily use. I found it especially useful in bathrooms, bedrooms, and under a vanity. Its compact size makes it easy to place almost anywhere, and I like that it does not take up much floor space. If I needed a larger bin for a kitchen or high-traffic area, I would choose something bigger, but for personal spaces, this size works well.

Hands-Free Step Pedal Feature

One of the biggest reasons I liked this trash can is the step pedal. I prefer not to touch the lid when my hands are full or messy, and the pedal makes it convenient and hygienic. In my experience, this feature is especially useful in bathrooms and powder rooms where cleanliness matters most.

Material and Build Quality

I pay close attention to how a product feels in daily use, and the Kohler 6L Step Trash Can gives me a solid impression. It feels well-made and stable, which is important because I do not want a trash can that tips over easily. I also appreciate that Kohler is known for quality home products, which gave me extra confidence in my purchase.

Ease of Cleaning

For me, a trash can should be easy to keep clean. I like that this model is simple in shape and does not have too many hard-to-reach spots. I can wipe it down quickly, and that saves me time. If I use it with a liner, maintenance becomes even easier.

Style and Appearance

I wanted a trash can that looked good in my space, not just one that worked well. The Kohler 6L Step Trash Can has a modern, minimal look that blends in nicely with different interiors. I found it easy to match with bathroom fixtures and décor, which made it feel like part of the room instead of an afterthought.

Who I Think This Trash Can Is Best For

In my opinion, this trash can is best for:

  • Bathrooms
  • Powder rooms
  • Bedrooms
  • Home offices
  • Small apartments
  • Vanity areas

I would recommend it to anyone who wants a compact, attractive, and easy-to-use trash can for light everyday use.

What I Would Keep in Mind

While I like this trash can, I also think it is important to remember that the 6L size is small. If I were dealing with a lot of waste, I would need to empty it more often. So, for me, it is best suited for spaces where trash output is low to moderate.

My Final Thoughts

Overall, I see the Kohler 6L Step Trash Can as a practical and stylish choice for small spaces. I like its hands-free operation, compact size, and clean design. If I wanted a trash can that looks good and performs well in a bathroom or other personal space, this would be one of my top choices.

Final Thoughts

I think the Kohler 6L Step Trash Can is a great choice if you want a compact, stylish, and practical waste bin for smaller spaces. My takeaway is that it offers the convenience of hands-free use, solid build quality, and a design that fits easily into bathrooms, offices, or tight corners. Overall, I’d say it’s a simple upgrade that adds both function and a cleaner look to everyday spaces.

Author Profile

Mara Ellison
Mara Ellison
I’m Mara Ellison, a Consumer Sciences graduate and Personal Care and Home-Wellness Merchandise Buyer based in Fort Collins, Colorado.

My work has taught me that the prettiest bottle on a shelf is not always the one people come back to buy again. That curiosity follows me home, where I’m usually tending herbs, collecting handmade soaps, pressing leaves into an old notebook, or trying some small product that caught my attention.

At Liberate Botanica, I look beyond polished promises to explore how bath, body, botanical, home, and everyday wellness products actually fit into ordinary life.