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We often have to make tough decisions when purchasing furniture and equipment; sofas, ovens, grills, etc. However, it never occurs to us that we have to make the same decision when buying trash cans, a bin you literally throw the trash into!
So why are some trash cans, especially from SimpleHuman, so expensive?
SimpleHuman trash cans are primarily expensive because they are generally durable. They use superior materials such as brushed stainless steel and hard plastic, making them indestructible. The cans are also innovative and solve problems you didn’t think you had.
This article looks at some of the reasons that make SimpleHuman trash cans so expensive. Keep reading to find out if an expensive trash can is worth the hype.
What Are SimpleHuman Trash Cans?
SimpleHuman is a home equipment company that makes bathroom and kitchen products such as dish racks, sensor-enabled soap dispensers, and trash cans.
SimpleHuman trash cans are made of brushed stainless steel and have two plastic bins, one for trash and another for recycling. They have a long pedal that lifts the lid effortlessly and almost silently.
Their rectangular shape makes them seem in place even in small kitchens while blending seamlessly in larger spaces.
The trash cans also have a nonskid base, which keeps them upright regardless of how many times you step on the pedal. You can also flip a switch to keep the lid open, making them easier to use during meal preparation.
SimpleHuman trash cans also use proprietary liners that fit right into the bins, making cleanup easy. If a mess happens, the bins also slide out effortlessly.
Although one bin is meant for recycling while the other is for trash, there’s no harm in switching between them. For instance, if you throw less trash than you recycle, you can use the bigger bin for recycling.
What Makes SimpleHuman Trash Cans Expensive?
SimpleHuman trash cans can be really expensive, sometimes over the $200 mark! So, what sets them apart from other trash cans to justify these price tags?
They Are Durable
All SimpleHuman trash cans are tested to last through 150,000 steps (20 steps a day for two decades.) While their warranty covers 10 years, they’ve been found to last much longer.
Most people cycle through their phones, clothes, and even cars in less than 5 years. Therefore, when SimpleHuman prices their trash cans, they reflect their durability.
They Use Superior Materials
Still, on durability, both their designs and components used give the trash cans such resilience. The exterior is made of brushed stainless steel instead of cheap materials like plastic. As a result, they don’t absorb odors, degrade or stain quickly.
On the inside, the manufacturers use a metal rod instead of a plastic tube or a wire to connect the lid to the pedal. While this costs more, it is more reliable and less likely to fail.
They Solve Problems You Didn’t Think You Had
Some consider SimpleHuman “the Apple of trash cans.” They try to anticipate users’ needs and offer technologies to solve them. They realize that taking the trash out is not fun, so they strive to make it easier.
For instance, they got rid of the bin when they realized it cost 20 percent of fillable space. They also drilled perfectly sized holes to stop bags from being suctioned when you try to take them out of the can.
Since people were having problems keeping the lid open while peeling potatoes, they made it possible with the flick of a switch.
Modern SimpleHuman trash cans also have pockets to hold the liners, making it easy for you to search through the trash bags.
They’re Innovative
SimpleHuman has dozens of patents throughout its line of products. Ideas such as slow-close dampers, strong pedals, and steel housing were first seen on SimpleHuman trash cans.
The company took it further and made the fingerprint coating antimicrobial, which was handy during the pandemic.
SimpleHuman also invested a lot of time and resources to improve the motion sensor cans and reduce false triggers. Modern SimpleHuman cans only open when you lean towards them from a certain distance.
Are SimpleHuman Stylish Trash Cans?
SimpleHuman trash cans are definitely stylish. Their rectangular shape allows them to blend into both small and large spaces.
The brushed stainless-steel finish also gives them a premium look while safeguarding them from staining.
Types of SimpleHuman Trash Cans With Prices
1. SimpleHuman Rectangular Dual Compartment Recycling Kitchen Step Trash Can
This dual-compartment trash can comes in four capacities: 30 liters, 38 liters, 46 liters, and 50 liters.
It has a strong steel pedal, tested to last through 150,000 steps. It also has a nonskid base to keep it steady even when you step on the pedal and a fingerprint-proof finish to keep it looking neat.
This can is ideal for kitchens, dining, and living rooms. It is also great for offices and other places of work.
2. SimpleHuman 6 Liter Compact Plastic Round Bathroom Step Trash Can
This is a sturdy and durable bathroom trash can. It has a robust pedal designed for a smooth and easy step. It also has a removable inner bucket for easier disposal.
Due to its small capacity, this can is suitable for small places such as bathrooms and offices.
3. SimpleHuman Semi-round Automatic Sensor Trash Can
The SimpleHuman semi-round automatic sensor trash can is a smart can with a 45-liter capacity. It has motion sensors that scan the areas in front of and behind the can so that it opens with just the wave of your hand.
It is also energy efficient and can last up to 1 year with 4 AA batteries. This can is ideal for kitchens and other wide spaces.
4. SimpleHuman Under Counter Kitchen Cabinet Pull-Out Trash Can
This unique trash can comes with two variations according to capacity: 30 and 35 liters. It has an easy-to-install preassembled track for easier pull-out. It also has a strong integrated steel handle, making it easier to remove and replace the can.
This can is suitable for medium to large spaces, including offices and kitchens.
5. SimpleHuman 10 Liter Butterfly Lid Bathroom Step Trash
This is a tiny trash can ideal for bathrooms and small offices. It has a butterfly lid (open from the center for lower clearance) and a strong steel pedal. It also has a removable inner bucket and a fingerprint-proof finish.
How Expensive is Too Expensive for a Trash Can?
It depends on how often you use the trash can and how you use it. For instance, a $200 trash can might not be a bad investment if you run a busy restaurant.
However, if you just need a trash can for your home kitchen, there’s no need to break the bank. A $50 SimpleHuman trash can should be good enough.
Are Expensive Trash Cans Worth It?
A good trash can that does not hit the wall when you step on the pedal or squeak as the lid opens might seem like a small quality of life improvement.
However, since it’s a product you use every day (or several times a day), you’ll be surprised by how relaxing it can be.
An expensive trash can might not make the chore of trash disappear, but it makes it more bearable.
