Caraway has quickly grown as a leader in kitchen products, becoming an increasingly recognizable brand in the last couple of years. After trying (and falling in love with) other Caraway products, I was super excited to hear about the release of their Trash and Recycling Collection.
Just launched this month, I got a first look at Caraway’s first-ever kitchen trash can, the Caraway 45L Rectangular Step Trash Can. Like all Caraway’s products, this stylish new kitchen trash can has a slim, streamlined design that blends into modern kitchens.
Is the Caraway step trash can worth the $245 price point? I gave this kitchen trash can a whirl to find out.
Caraway 45L Rectangular Step Trash Can
Appearance and Style
Caraway’s 45L step trash can comes in five finishes, which include stone, Cream, Midnight, Clay or Emerald. If you know anything about Caraway’s kitchen products, you know that they always come in fun, bold colors to make a statement in your kitchen.
Personally, I can’t seem to break away from my love for neutrals, so I chose the stone color (an off-white). It’s kind of a light grey and white blend which is a true neutral that will look great in any kitchen. Other colors like Clay or Emerald can add a pop of color in neutral kitchens. While comparable 13-gallon kitchen trash cans can be found at a much cheaper price point, you won’t find a color selection like Caraway offers.
Pros
- Available in trash, trash and recycling, or recycling only configurations.
- Smooth opening system and quiet-close lid.
- Fits normal 13 gallon trash bags.
- 5 colorways.
- Step access for easy-opening.
- Doesn't show fingerprints.
Cons
- High price point.
- No smaller options than the 13-gallon size currently.
- Available online only.
- Not available in black.
Caraway Rectangular Step Trash Can: Functionality and Sizing
All Caraway kitchen products are thoughtfully designed, and this trash can option is no exception. The interior bin has easy handles to lift out, which makes cleaning this bin super easy. While the exterior is pretty hefty and sturdy, the interior basket is lightweight, a nice touch when lifting out trash.
Specifications
- Size: 45 L.
- Type of Trash Bag: Universal 13 Gallon Bags.
- Colors: Stone, Cream, Midnight, Clay or Emerald.
- Interior: Removable interior bin.
- Cleaning: Warm, soapy water and microfiber cloth.
- Finish: Matte.
After having this trash can in my kitchen for just one day, I was instantly impressed with the soft-open and close lid. The step on the bottom allows the lid to open smoothly and stay open long enough to get your trash in.
When it’s time to close, it falls so without making a single noise. Even after using for a few days, I didn’t notice any fingerprints on this trash can. In the past, I’ve found it very difficult to keep stainless steel trash cans in my home free of smudges and fingerprints (especially as someone who cooks everyday).
I opted for the trash-only version as I do not need a recycling bin in my home. However, the duo seems like a great option for homes that have more floorspace in their kitchen. The recycling and trash duo (priced at $445) includes a 2-drawer recycling bin that encourages recycling in your home. This matches the brands eco-friendly mission.
Caraway 45L Rectangular Step Trash Can
In My Expert Opinion
The Caraway 45L rectangular step trash can marks an important shift in what today’s consumers want. While stainless steel will always be a universal classic in kitchens, modern homeowners are seeking finishes that are easier to keep clean. The fingerprint-proof matte finish of these trash and recycling bins offer a great option for homes with kids.
Unlike some trash cans by other companies like Simplehuman, I really like that this trash can take a universal 13-gallon trash bag. Having to buy speciality bags not only adds up, but becomes a hassle and another thing to do on your to-do list.
Purchasing a trash can like the Caraway step trash can means you can buy standard trash cans in bulk (at places like Costco or BJ’s). While you may pay a higher up-front cost for this kitchen trash can, you’ll save in the long run on buying trash bags.
Given that this Trash and Recycling collection by Caraway just launched this month, I hope that more colors and sizes will become available in the future. This can requires a good amount of floor space in your kitchen. An 8-gallon option would be great for apartments or homes with smaller kitchens.
Overall, I think this Caraway step kitchen can is a worthwhile investment for a durable, made-to-last can for your kitchen. I think this can will look great in newer, more modern homes but may not blend well in homes with traditional-style kitchens.
