Does the humble kitchen trash can ever make you sigh in frustration? You know the feeling: the lid jams, it smells funky, or it just doesn’t fit your space. It seems like such a small thing, but this everyday item can cause surprisingly big headaches in your kitchen routine. We toss things in it dozens of times a day, yet we rarely stop to think about how much a good—or bad—can impacts our daily lives.
Choosing the perfect bin seems easy until you face the reality of size, odor control, and opening mechanisms. Do you need motion sensors? Should you go stainless steel or plastic? These decisions pile up faster than the garbage itself. Finding a reliable can that works smoothly and looks decent in your kitchen shouldn’t feel like a major renovation project.
This post cuts through the confusion. We break down the essential features, compare the best types on the market, and give you the insider tips needed to select a trash can that perfectly matches your needs and budget. Get ready to say goodbye to clumsy can struggles forever. Let’s dive into how to find the ultimate kitchen companion for your waste management!
Top Kitchen Trash Can Recommendations
- CONVENIENT SIZE: 50 liter / 13.2 gallon trash can for home or office
- EVERYDAY USE: Stay-open lid, removable bucket, and carry handle ensure easy, convenient trash disposal
- DURABLE: Stainless steel, smudge-resistant exterior and heavy duty plastic inner bucket for reliable strength
- QUIET OPERATION: Manual foot lever and soft close lid for ultra-quiet opening and closing
- PRODUCT DIMENSIONS: 14.7 x 16.7 x 25.9 inches (LxWxH)
- AUTOMATIC & HYGIENIC – The touchless sensor lid opens and closes automatically, keeping your hands clean and ensuring a noiseless, sanitary trash experience.
- MODERN & DURABLE DESIGN – Made of premium stainless steel with a fingerprint-resistant finish. The sleek oval body and sloping lid design fit seamlessly into kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, and offices.
- POWERED BY 4 C BATTERIES (NOT INCLUDED) – Uses 4× C-cell batteries for long performance: Supports 40,000+ openings for long-lasting use. Alkaline batteries are recommended for best performance. For best results, install with correct polarity, switch ON before use, and place the can in a cool, dry, ventilated area to protect electronic components.
- ODOR CONTROL & EASY CARE – Keep the lid closed to minimize odor. The stainless steel surface is easy to maintain—just wipe with a dry towel for regular care.
- LARGE CAPACITY & CLEAR GUIDANCE – Fits standard 13-gallon trash bags from any supermarket. Accurate size dimensions and internal images reduce confusion. Includes usage tips on bag sealing, odor control, and proper placement.
- Hands-Free Motion Sensor Operation: Wave to open - no touching required! Our automatic trash can uses advanced motion sensor technology to open instantly when you approach, keeping germs away from hands and surfaces. Perfect for messy cooking tasks or when your hands are full in the kitchen or office.
- Large 60L/16Gal Capacity Design: Fewer trips to empty! This 16 gallon garbage can holds 4-5 days of family kitchen waste or full office day trash. The extra-large capacity means no constant emptying - ideal for high-traffic areas while maintaining sleek aesthetics.
- Smart Dual Compartment System: The dual compartment trash bin lets you separate recyclables from regular waste with built-in dividers. Makes eco-friendly living simple - just toss bottles in one side, food waste in the other.
- Silent Soft-Close Lid Technology: No more loud bangs! The soft-close lid descends quietly every time, preventing startling noises in quiet offices or late-night kitchen use. Protects the mechanism for longer lifespan than competitors.
- Premium Stainless Steel Build: Elevate your space instantly! Crafted from fingerprint-resistant stainless steel that wipes clean in seconds and resists scratches. Maintains its sophisticated look for years - the perfect blend of smart function and modern design for any decor.
- Home & Kitchen Trash Can: 13 gallon trashcan is perfect for any household, featuring a narrow rectangular shape and a matte black finish to coordinate with any decor
- Clorox Odor Protection: Waste bin lid is thoughtfully designed with Clorox Odor Protection to inhibit unwanted odors
- Hands Free for Easy Use: Simply step on the foot pedal for hands-free, touchless operation while the soft-close lid design shuts the bin gently
- Secure Bag Rings: Integrated bag rings keep your wastebasket neat and tidy, securing the trash bag in place so it doesn’t fall to the bottom of the container
- Fits Virtually Anywhere: Slim design of this dustbin allows for home or commercial use, measuring 18” wide, 14.7” deep, and 25” tall; 13 gal (50 liter) size garbage bin fits any kitchen and is great for an office, dorm room, or bathroom
- Premium Motion Sensor Technology - Experience the smoothest, most seamless lid opening and closing technology with this EKO hands-free automatic trash can.
- Ultimate Fingerprint Resistance - Say goodbye to smudges and hello to a clean flawless exterior that stays immaculate. The anti-fingerprint stainless steel finish keeps your space clean and stylish.
- Sleek and Durable Finish - Meticulously crafted with a stainless steel finish, this stylish touchless trash can offers a cool and smooth texture that’s durable and visually appealing for any home decor style.
- 25% More Capacity - No liner design maximizes capacity by offering 25% more room to dispose of the trash.
- Long-lasting Power - Use with AA alkaline batteries and can last up to 8 months of use, making our kitchen garbage can eco-friendly and your wallet happy.
- WASTE BIN WITH 13 GALLON CAPACITY - This 13 gallon trash can is perfect for any household and features a classic rectangular shape in a sleek matte black finish.
- CLOROX ODOR PROTECTION - Keep your household smelling fresh. This lidded trash can is formulated with Clorox Odor Protection of the lid to thoroughly protect from smells for the life of the can.
- KITCHEN TRASH CAN WITH UPGRADED STEP PEDAL - The Glad plastic trash can has been redesigned with a premium stainless steel foot pedal for exceptional strength and lasting use, while the hands-free operation allows you to throw your trash without having to lift the lid of the can.
- PLASTIC TRASH CAN WITH BAG RINGS - Interior bag rings secure the trash bag in place, keep it from falling in, and tuck away unsightly bag slack for a crisp, clean look.
- SUITABLE FOR HOME OR COMMERCIAL USE - Use this dustbin to keep any interior space clean. This 13G/50L garbage bin fits any kitchen and is great for families and office spaces. Rectangle trash can is 18” wide, 14.7” deep, and 25” high.
- TOP QUALITY - This trash cans is sturdily built with the highest quality plastic. Ideal for a heavily used tiny waste can or storage bin which is perfect sizes for countertops and floors
- EASY TO CLEAN: This mini waste can has no chance of rusting making it waterproof, hassle-free to maintain, and clean with water.
- LIGHTWEIGHT and COMPACT - This portable wastebasket is mini and very lightweight so it can easily be carried from your car to work and back home.
- SWING TOP LID- You don't have to work hard and open the cover of your trash can just use this easy swing lid which is practical and closes right away thus keeping all the trash out of sight.
- VERSATILE BIN: Use this trashcan to dispose of peels, dirt, lint, papers, and tea bags, or to store small stuff such as crafts, tools, cleaning supplies, and more…
- 【High Quality Construction】13 Gallon Garbage can made of sturdy stainless steel with brushed surface, anti-fingerprints and easy to clean. ABS handle and base, anti-slip design.Pedal tested 200,000 times, service life over 25 years.
- 【Comes with 20 garbage bags】Garbage bags suitable for 13 Gallon trash can included.Even if the garbage fills the entire garbage bag, our high-quality garbage bags can withstand it.The regular 13-gallon garbage bag in the supermarket can be used in our stainless steel trash can.
- 【Silence & Soft Closure】The built-in Bi-force damper ensures that the lid can be closed quietly every time prevents banging.Don’t worry about disturbing your family with the noise.You just have to stand the lid up 90° and it can stay open as long as you want,suitable for using the trash can multiple times without opening it multiple times when doing housework in the kitchen.
- 【Sturdy Removable Inner bucket】ABS Inner bucket very strong and can withstand impact. Even if it is accidentally hit, it will be difficult to break.There is a small hole in the inner bucket to fix the garbage bag.
- 【Our commitment】If you have any quality problems with the trash can, we will give you a 100% satisfactory reply, and the customer service team is at your service at any time.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Your Kitchen Trash Can
Finding the right kitchen trash can makes a big difference in keeping your cooking space clean and smelling fresh. It might seem simple, but there are many things to consider before you buy. This guide will help you pick the best one for your home.
1. Key Features to Look For
The best trash cans offer more than just a place to toss scraps. Think about how you use your kitchen every day.
Capacity and Size
- **Size Matters:** Measure the space where the can will sit. Don’t buy a huge can if it won’t fit!
- **Capacity (Gallons/Liters):** Families who cook a lot need larger cans (13 gallons or more). Smaller households can use medium-sized ones.
Opening Mechanism
How you open the can affects convenience and hygiene.
- **Step-On Pedal:** This is very popular. You push a pedal with your foot to open the lid. Your hands stay clean.
- **Motion Sensor (Touchless):** The lid opens automatically when it senses your hand. This is the cleanest option.
- **Manual Lift:** You lift the lid by hand. These are often the cheapest but the least convenient.
Lid and Sealing
A good seal stops bad smells from escaping. Look for tight-fitting lids.
2. Important Materials
The material impacts how long the can lasts and how easy it is to clean.
Stainless Steel
- **Pros:** Looks modern and sleek. It is very durable.
- **Cons:** Fingerprints show easily unless it has a special “smudge-proof” coating.
Plastic
- **Pros:** Usually less expensive. Plastic is lightweight and easy to wipe down.
- **Cons:** Can look cheap. It might crack over time, especially if it gets bumped often.
Other Considerations
Check if the can has an inner bucket. A removable inner bucket makes taking out the trash much easier.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality is often found in the small details. These features make a big difference in daily use.
Durability and Construction
Strong hinges and pedals mean the can lasts longer. Cheap plastic hinges break quickly. High-quality stainless steel resists dents.
Odor Control
- **Ventilation:** Some cans have special vents or charcoal filters built into the lid. These filters absorb odors.
- **Lid Fit:** A heavy, well-sealed lid keeps smells trapped inside.
Noise Level
A poorly made can makes a loud “clank” when the lid closes. Quality cans often have soft-close hinges that shut quietly.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how you will use the can.
Kitchen vs. Office Use
Kitchen trash cans need a large capacity for food waste. Office or bathroom cans need to be small and discreet.
Cleaning Routine
If you hate cleaning, choose a can with smooth surfaces and no complicated nooks where grime can hide. Plastic is often faster to clean than detailed stainless steel.
Bag Changes
Does the can hold the bag securely? Some models have rings or mechanisms that hide the ugly plastic bag edges, which improves the look.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Kitchen Trash Cans
Q: What is the best size trash can for an average family?
A: Most experts suggest a 13-gallon can for a family of four. This size usually matches standard kitchen trash bags.
Q: Are touchless trash cans worth the extra money?
A: Yes, many users find them worth it. They offer great hygiene because you never touch the lid, which reduces germ spread.
Q: How do I stop my stainless steel trash can from showing fingerprints?
A: Look for cans specifically labeled as “fingerprint-resistant” or “smudge-proof.” You can also wipe standard steel with a microfiber cloth and a little vinegar and water solution.
Q: What if my trash can smells bad even after I empty it?
A: Clean the inside thoroughly with soap and water. Then, place baking soda or a charcoal filter pad in the bottom of the can, underneath the trash bag.
Q: Should I buy a can with an inner bucket?
A: Yes, an inner bucket significantly improves the user experience. You lift out the bucket instead of wrestling with a heavy, floppy trash bag.
Q: What is a “soft-close” lid?
A: A soft-close lid closes slowly and quietly on its own. This feature prevents loud banging noises when the lid shuts.
Q: Are round or rectangular trash cans better?
A: Rectangular cans usually save more floor space because they sit flush against a wall or cabinet. Round cans fit better in corners.
Q: Can I use any brand of trash bags?
A: If your can has a specific liner system (like some step-on models), you might need that brand’s custom bags. For standard cans, you can use any bag that matches the gallon size.
Q: How often should I clean my kitchen trash can?
A: You should empty it daily or whenever it gets full. A deep clean (washing the inside and outside) should happen at least once a month.
Q: Do motion sensor cans use a lot of batteries?
A: Modern motion sensor cans are very efficient. Most people only need to change the batteries every few months, depending on how often the lid is opened.