Kraus WasteGuard 13.2 Gallon / Review: Who It Fits and Who Should Skip It
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
This kraus wasteguard 13 2 gallon review focuses on a single-compartment kitchen trash can designed for hands-free use. It holds 13.2 gallons of waste, which equals 50 liters. The unit measures 18 inches long, 14.9 inches wide, and 25.1 inches tall. It weighs 14.6 pounds. The body is made of stainless steel with a spot-free finish. A foot pedal opens the lid, allowing you to dispose of trash without touching the surface. This design helps reduce germ transfer during daily kitchen tasks.
What stands out
- 13.2-gallon capacity fits standard large trash bags
- Soft-close lid prevents slamming and noise
- Foot pedal enables hands-free operation
- Spot-free stainless steel resists fingerprints
Who it fits
Good fit for
This trash can suits households that prioritize hygiene and ease of use in the kitchen. The foot pedal is ideal for cooks who have full hands. The 13.2-gallon size works well for families generating moderate waste. The slim rectangular profile fits neatly in tight spaces under counters. The soft-close lid is good for open-plan homes where noise matters. The durable stainless steel construction resists corrosion and daily wear.
Who should skip it
You should look elsewhere if you need to separate recyclables from trash. This model has only a single compartment, so you cannot sort waste without multiple bins. If you prefer motion-sensor activation, this manual pedal option will not meet your needs. The step-on mechanism requires you to keep your feet clear of the base. It is also not suitable for bathrooms if you need a smaller, more discreet unit.
Verdict: The Kraus WasteGuard offers a practical, hygienic solution for kitchen waste disposal. Its soft-close lid and hands-free pedal make daily chores easier.
Key specs explained
Capacity: 13.2 Gallon / 50 L
This volume holds roughly 50 liters of waste. You can fit standard kitchen bags without frequent emptying. The size suits average households with moderate cooking habits. Larger families might prefer higher capacities. Smaller units require more frequent disposal. This capacity balances space efficiency with utility for daily meal prep cleanup.
Primary Material: Stainless steel
Stainless steel resists corrosion and rust. It wipes clean easily and maintains a sleek look. The spot-free finish reduces visible smudges. This material is durable and long-lasting. It fits modern kitchen aesthetics. Unlike plastic, it does not retain odors. It withstands daily use without degrading over time.
Opening Mechanism: Foot pedal
A foot pedal allows hands-free operation. You keep hands clean while disposing of waste. This is useful when handling dirty dishes or food scraps. The mechanism reduces germ transfer. It offers convenience during busy cooking times. You do not need to touch the lid with potentially contaminated hands.
Soft Close: Soft close lid
The lid closes gently and quietly. It prevents slamming noises and protects hinges. This feature extends the product lifespan. It is useful in open-plan kitchens. You avoid disturbing others with loud closures. The smooth motion is safer for children and pets. It adds a premium feel to daily use.
Compartment Count: Single Compartment
A single compartment holds one type of waste. You cannot sort recycling from trash simultaneously. This simplifies use but limits sorting options. You need separate bins for recycling. It is ideal for basic waste disposal. If you need to separate materials, this model may not suit your needs compared to dual-compartment units.
Design and build details
The listing describes the Kraus WasteGuard as a single-compartment unit made from stainless steel. It offers a spot-free finish to resist fingerprints, according to the listing. This material choice helps the can handle daily kitchen use while resisting corrosion. The construction includes reinforced hinges and non-skid silicone feet for stability. You get a heavy-duty feel without the bulk of plastic bins.
Its footprint is rectangular, measuring 18 inches long and 14.9 inches wide. The height reaches 25.1 inches, and the total weight is 14.6 pounds. This slim profile allows it to fit neatly into tight spaces under counters or in cabinets. The wide opening accommodates bulky items, making disposal easier. You do not need to struggle with small openings when tossing large waste.
Operation relies on a step-on pedal mechanism for hands-free use. This design reduces germ transfer when handling food scraps. The lid features a soft-close mechanism with internal hinges. This ensures quiet operation and protects walls or nearby objects from scuffs. A built-in bag securing system keeps trash bags in place. The removable bucket inside simplifies cleaning. You can lift the inner bin out for thorough washing without moving the entire heavy unit.
Setup and daily operation details
Setting up this Kraus WasteGuard begins with unpacking the single-compartment unit. The listing notes it weighs 14.6 pounds, so you should place it on a flat, stable surface in your kitchen. The rectangular footprint measures 18 inches long and 14.9 inches wide. This slim profile allows it to fit neatly into tight spaces or under counters without taking up excessive floor area. You will need to insert a standard trash bag into the removable inner bucket. The design includes a built-in bag securing system with a hole to keep the liner in place. This ensures the bag does not slip down when you load waste. Daily use relies on the foot pedal mechanism. You press the stainless steel pedal to open the lid hands-free. This feature helps reduce germ transfer when handling food scraps. The internal hinges allow the lid to close smoothly. The soft-close action prevents the lid from slamming shut or hitting nearby walls. This protects your cabinetry from scuffs and reduces noise. The wide opening accommodates bulky items, making disposal easier. You can remove the inner bucket for hassle-free cleaning. The non-skid silicone feet keep the unit stationary during use. The spot-free stainless steel finish resists fingerprints, maintaining a clean look with minimal effort. This trash can is designed for moderate to heavy kitchen use, fitting standard bags and handling daily waste disposal efficiently.
Before you buy this trash can
You need standard kitchen trash bags that fit a 13.2-gallon opening. The listing confirms the can holds these bags securely using a built-in hole system. You should verify your bag size before purchasing to ensure a proper fit. Cleaning is straightforward because the inner bucket is removable. Wipe the stainless steel exterior with a soft cloth to maintain the spot-free finish. This unit operates via a foot pedal, so keep the area around the base clear for easy access. It is a single-compartment bin, meaning you cannot sort recycling from waste in this specific model. If you need separation, look for dual-compartment variations listed in the options. The slim rectangular design fits into tight kitchen corners. Ensure your floor is flat, as the silicone feet provide stability but require a level surface. This trash can complements your kitchen workflow by keeping waste disposal hands-free and quiet.
Check before you buy
- Check if standard 13-gallon bags fit the opening.
- Ensure floor space is flat and clear for the pedal.
- Verify you do not need dual-compartment recycling separation.
- Confirm the rectangular footprint fits your kitchen corner.
The product at a glance
Kraus WasteGuard 13.2-Gallon Step Trash Can
Best for: tight kitchen spaces needing hands-free use
- Capacity
- 13.2 Gallon / 50 L
- Opening Mechanism
- Foot pedal
- Compartment Count
- Single Compartment
- Primary Material
- Stainless steel
- Soft Close
- Soft close lid
- Target Space
- Kitchen
View on Amazon: Kraus WasteGuard 13.2-Gallon Step Trash Can Affiliate link
The Kraus WasteGuard is a 13.2-gallon single-compartment trash can designed for kitchen use. It features a stainless steel body with a fingerprint-resistant finish and a step pedal for hands-free operation. The soft-close lid reduces noise and prevents slamming. Its slim rectangular profile measures 18 by 14.9 inches, allowing it to fit in tight spaces. This model is built for durability with reinforced hinges and non-skid feet.
Pros
- 13.2-gallon capacity holds standard bags
- Foot pedal enables hands-free opening
- Soft-close lid prevents slamming noise
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish
Cons
- Single compartment limits sorting options
- Foot pedal mechanism adds mechanical complexity
- Manual operation lacks motion sensor convenience
Good fit if
- You need a hands-free kitchen bin
- You want a slim rectangular footprint
- You prefer a durable stainless steel build
Skip if
- You require dual compartments for recycling
- You want automatic motion sensor activation
- You need a larger than 13-gallon capacity
Verdict: Kraus WasteGuard 13.2 Gal Step Pedal fits kitchens where space is tight and hands-free hygiene matters, provided you do not need automatic sensor activation or dual sorting bins.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Kraus WasteGuard 13.2-Gallon Step Trash Can |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 13.2 Gallon / 50 L |
| Opening Mechanism | Foot pedal |
| Compartment Count | Single Compartment |
| Primary Material | Stainless steel |
| Soft Close | Soft close lid |
| Target Space | Kitchen |
| Features | Soft-Close, Step Pedal, Inner Bucket |
| Dimensions | 18 × 14.9 × 25.1 inches |
| Weight | 14.6 pounds |
| Size | Single Compartment 13.2 Gallon |
| Color | Spot Free Stainless |
| Model | KTCP-100SFS |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Kraus WasteGuard suitable for small kitchens?
Yes, it fits tight spaces well. The unit measures 14.9 inches wide and 18 inches long. This rectangular footprint allows it to slide into narrow gaps between cabinets. You can place it in compact kitchens without taking up excessive floor area.
Does this trash can have a sensor?
No, it does not have an automatic sensor. It uses a manual step pedal for hands-free operation. You must press the pedal to open the lid. This design avoids the need for batteries or electrical outlets near your sink.
How much waste does the 13.2-gallon capacity hold?
It holds 13.2 gallons, which equals 50 liters. This volume suits average households with moderate cooking habits. You can fit standard kitchen bags without frequent emptying. Larger families might find this size requires more regular disposal of trash.
Is the stainless steel finish resistant to fingerprints?
Yes, it features a spot-free stainless steel finish. This coating helps resist fingerprints and smudges during daily use. You will not need to wipe the exterior as often to maintain a clean appearance in your kitchen.
Can I sort recyclables with this model?
No, it has a single compartment. You cannot separate trash from recycling in one unit. You will need additional bins if you want to sort waste. This model is best for general waste disposal only.
How heavy is the Kraus WasteGuard?
It weighs 14.6 pounds. This weight provides stability so the can does not tip easily. You should place it on a flat, stable surface. The weight also helps keep the unit secure while you step on the pedal.
Does the lid close slowly to prevent noise?
Yes, it includes a soft-close feature. The lid descends gently rather than slamming shut. This mechanism reduces noise and prevents pinching your fingers. It helps maintain a quiet environment in your kitchen during evening hours.