4 Best Kitchen Trash Cans for 2026 (Keep Your Kitchen Tidy)

Keeping your kitchen tidy in 2026 means choosing the right trash can—something that balances convenience, durability, and sanitation. From touchless sensors that activate lids with a wave, to steel models with soft-close lids, the options now cater to every need, with capacities ranging from 2.4 gallons for small spaces to 13 gallons for larger families. Wondering which features truly matter and how to avoid the clutter of discarded models? The key insights ahead might just change how you manage waste.

BestOffice 13 Gallon Touchless Trash Can

If you want a trash can that is clean and easy to use, the BestOffice 13 Gallon Touchless Trash Can is a great choice. It’s made of strong stainless steel and has a finish that hides fingerprints. Its shape is smooth and oval, so it fits well in many rooms.

The trash can uses a special infrared sensor. When your hand comes within 6 inches, the lid opens smoothly and quietly. You don’t have to touch it, which helps keep things sanitary. It holds about 13 gallons of trash, so you won’t need to empty it often. The lid helps stop bad smells from escaping, so your space stays fresh.

This trash can is good for families, busy homes, and workplaces that want a modern, clean way to throw away trash.

Pros:

• Hands-free operation with a sensor
• Large size for frequent use
• Made of sturdy stainless steel that resists fingerprints

Cons:

• Needs four C batteries (not included) which need changing
• Bigger footprint, so it might not fit in small spaces
• Has a manual open/close button, which might not always work smoothly

This trash can makes trash easy and clean. It uses sensors to open the lid, so you don’t have to touch it. It’s big enough for busy use and keeps smells inside. Just remember to replace the batteries when needed. It’s a simple, modern way to keep your home or office tidy.

PayLessHere 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can

The PayLessHere 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can is a good choice for your kitchen, office, or outdoor space. It can hold about 50 liters of trash, so it’s great for everyday use. The trash can is made of strong stainless steel. Its brushed surface keeps water, scratches, and bacteria away, and it doesn’t show fingerprints easily.

It has a soft-close lid that shuts quietly. The foot pedal lets you open the lid without using your hands. The shape is rectangular, so it fits well into tight spaces. The inner bucket is removable, making it simple to empty and clean.

This trash can is reliable and looks nice. It helps keep your space tidy and hygienic.

Best for: homes, offices, and outdoor areas that need a sturdy and clean trash solution.

Pros:

• Made of tough stainless steel that resists water, scratches, and germs.
• Has a soft-close lid and foot pedal for quiet, hands-free use.
• The inside bucket can be taken out easily for emptying and cleaning.

Cons:

• Weighs 13 pounds, so it might be a bit heavy to move often.
• Its rectangular shape might not fit larger or odd-shaped trash bags.
• The brushed finish is durable but may show fingerprints if not cleaned regularly.

This trash can combines function and style. It makes waste disposal simple, clean, and quiet.

Small Motion Sensor Trash Can, Stainless Steel, 2.4 Gal

Looking for a trash can that fits small spaces? The Small Motion Sensor Trash Can by CEDARRA INC is a good pick. It holds 2.4 gallons of trash and has a sleek stainless steel look. Its small, slim shape means it can slide easily under desks, beds, or in bathrooms.

The best part is the touchless lid. Just wave your hand, and the lid opens. It closes quietly, so you won’t wake anyone. No need to touch the can, which makes it more hygienic and easier to use. It runs on 2 AA batteries, so there are no cords to worry about. You just put in the batteries and place it where you want.

The stainless steel finish resists fingerprints, so it stays clean-looking. Its modern style fits into any room nicely.

Ideal Use: Perfect for small spaces like bedrooms, bathrooms, or offices. It’s good for places where you want a neat and convenient trash solution.

Pros:

• You don’t have to touch it. Just wave your hand.
• Small size fits in tight spots.
• Looks nice with fingerprint-resistant stainless steel.

Cons:

• Needs 2 AA batteries (not included).
• With 2.4 gallons, you may need to empty it often in busy areas.
• It is meant for indoor use only. Not for outside.

This trash can makes trash disposal quick, clean, and simple. It helps keep your space tidy and is easy to use every day.

Glad 13 Gallon Step-On Trash Can with Lid

The Glad 13 Gallon Step-On Trash Can with Lid is a smart choice for keeping your home or business clean. It has a rectangular shape that is 18 inches wide, 14.7 inches deep, and 25 inches tall. This shape helps it fit in tight spaces, but it still holds a big 13 gallons of trash.

The lid has Clorox Odor Protection. This feature helps stop bad smells from escaping. The lid closes gently and quietly with a soft-close feature. To toss trash, just step on the foot pedal. No need to touch the lid, which makes it more hygienic.

The trash can has secure rings that hold the trash bag in place. This keeps the bag from slipping and keeps your space tidy. The trash can is made from sturdy plastic, so it can stand up to regular use. It has a clean, simple look that fits well in any kitchen or commercial area.

This trash can works well for families or businesses that want a big, odor-free, and easy-to-use trash solution.

Pros:

• Smells stay inside with Clorox Odor Protection
• Hands-free use with a foot pedal
• Bag rings keep trash bags secure and tidy

Cons:

• Made of plastic, so it might not last forever
• Narrow shape might limit where you can put it
• Slightly heavier than smaller trash cans, so it’s a little harder to move

This trash can makes cleaning easier and more hygienic. It is a simple, reliable way to manage trash in your home or business.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Kitchen Trash Can

When choosing a kitchen trash can, you’ll want to think about its capacity—whether it’s a compact 5-gallon model or a spacious 13-gallon can that handles daily waste without overflowing. Touchless operation can offer convenience and reduce mess, but you’ll need to weigh that against durability and maintenance, especially in high-traffic areas. And don’t forget to consider odor control and whether the can fits neatly into your available space; after all, no one wants a starved kitchen for room or smells.

Capacity Needs

Knowing how much trash you make helps you pick the right trash can. If you throw away a lot each day, pick a bigger can—like 13 gallons or more. It will mean fewer trips to empty it. If you only throw away a little trash, a small can—2 to 5 gallons—works fine. This is good for bathrooms or small offices.

Think about special days when trash piles up. A bigger can can help then too. But remember, bigger cans take up more space. To save space and make it easier, match your trash can size with the trash bags you use. For example, a 13-gallon bag fits well in a 13-gallon can.

Choosing the right size saves you time, space, and hassle. It makes garbage cleanup easier and quicker.

Touchless Operation

Choosing a touchless trash can is not just about picking the newest gadget. You should think about how well it responds to your daily routine. These trash cans use sensors like infrared or motion detectors. When you walk near, the lid opens automatically, and when you’re done, it closes by itself.

Look for models with a sensor range of about 2 to 4 inches. This makes sure the lid opens when you’re close by but doesn’t open by accident. Battery-powered cans are easy to place anywhere because they don’t need an outlet. This makes them flexible for different parts of your kitchen.

Responsiveness is important. If the lid takes more than a second to open, it can be annoying. Some trash cans let you adjust the sensor’s sensitivity. This helps you set it so it works just right for your space and habits.

A good sensor system makes trash easy and clean. It helps keep your hands free and makes cleanup quick. A well-chosen touchless trash can is worth the small price for a more convenient kitchen.

Material Durability

Material strength helps your kitchen trash can last longer. Picking cans made from stainless steel or good-quality plastic can keep them looking nice and working well for years. Stainless steel cans are tough. They don’t rust, scratch easily, or get damaged if you drop them. They are also simple to clean and resist moisture and bacteria. That makes them good for busy kitchens where hygiene matters. Plastic cans are lighter and less expensive. They resist chipping and cracking over time. The key is choosing thick, well-made materials. Thicker walls and strong seams make the can tough enough to handle bumps and drops. Finishes that resist fingerprints or rust keep the can looking nice and help it stay working smooth longer. Remember, a strong, well-made trash can does more than just look good. It can handle daily use and keep working well everywhere in your kitchen.

Odor Control

When you want to keep your kitchen smelling fresh, some simple features help a lot. Sealed lids are really important because they trap smells inside and stop them from escaping. Using materials like stainless steel or special plastics can also cut down on bad odors and make cleaning easier and more hygienic. It’s a good idea to add activated carbon filters or deodorizer inserts inside the lid or trash can liner. These help soak up smells before they spread.

Cleaning the inside of the trash can often and changing the bags on time also stops bad smells from building up. Features like tight lids, smell-proof seals, and odor-neutralizing treatments aren’t just nice extras. They are key for controlling odors. After all, nobody wants their trash can to keep making the kitchen smell bad.

Space Compatibility

Have you ever tried pushing a big trash can into a small kitchen corner? Maybe it’s just a little too wide or tall. To avoid this, you should check the space first. Measure the height, width, and depth of the spot where you want to put the trash can. This helps you find a can that fits well and doesn’t block doors or walkways.

Think about the shape of the trash can too. A rectangular can might slide into a narrow space easier. An oval or round can could fit better along curved walls or corners. Also, leave some room so the trash can lid can open easily. This is especially important if you have a step-on or sensor trash can that needs extra space to open.

Make sure the trash bag is easy to put in and take out. You don’t want to struggle with it or block nearby cabinets. Planning your space carefully keeps your kitchen neat and prevents you from buying a trash can that’s too big or awkward.

Easy Maintenance

Picking a trash can that’s easy to clean up can save you time and keep your kitchen looking nice. Look for ones made of stainless steel or good plastic. These materials are simple to wipe with a cloth and don’t stain easily. Choose models with smooth surfaces and few little cracks. These spots can catch dirt and make cleaning hard. Some trash cans have removable inside buckets or liners. These make throwing away trash cleaner and easier. Fingerprint-resistant finishes help keep the surface looking shiny even after using it many times. Features like touchless openings or lids that close softly also help. They keep dirt away and make cleaning less needed. By choosing the right trash can, your kitchen stays tidy and clean without a lot of extra work.

Budget Considerations

Having a clear budget helps you pick the right kitchen trash can. It makes it easier to find options that fit your price and stops you from spending too much. Think about whether fancy features, like touchless opening or smell control, are worth extra money. Sometimes, simple trash cans work just fine.

Cheap trash cans usually hold about 10 to 13 gallons. They are good for small families but might not be enough for bigger households. It’s smart to choose a trash can that is strong and easy to clean. Metal ones made of stainless steel or sturdy plastic last longer and won’t rust. Spending a little more now on a good trash can can save you money later because you won’t need to replace it as often.

Compare prices from different brands and materials. This helps you get the best trash can for your money. Picking the right one means you get a good mix of price, quality, and features.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Touchless Trash Cans More Hygienic Than Traditional Bins?

Touchless trash cans are generally more hygienic than traditional bins because they reduce direct contact, lowering the risk of spreading germs and bacteria. You just wave your hand, making cleanup quicker and safer.

What Are the Best Materials for Odor Control?

You should choose materials like activated carbon filters, stainless steel, or odor-absorbing polymers for odor control. These materials trap smells, reduce bacteria, and keep your kitchen smelling fresh, making your trash experience more hygienic and pleasant.

How Often Should I Clean My Kitchen Trash Can?

You should clean your kitchen trash can at least once a week to prevent odors and bacteria buildup. If you notice bad smells or spills, clean it more often. Regular cleaning keeps your kitchen fresh and hygienic.

Do Motion Sensor Trash Cans Work Well in Low Light?

Motion sensor trash cans still work well in low light because many use infrared sensors that detect motion based on heat or body movement, not just light. You’ll find them reliable, even during nighttime or dimly lit conditions.

Can I Use a Kitchen Trash Can Outdoors?

You can use a kitchen trash can outdoors, but choose one made of durable, weather-resistant materials like stainless steel or heavy-duty plastic. Make sure it has secure lids to prevent pests and withstand elements, maintaining cleanliness and longevity outside.