5 Best Kitchen Trash Cans in 2026: Tested for Odor Control

Finding the best garbage can for kitchen use might seem simple, but the right choice can genuinely make your kitchen cleaner, more hygienic, and completely free of unpleasant odors. A poorly designed bin can lead to slipping bags, smelly messes, and constant frustration.

The challenge is navigating a market filled with options. How do you choose between stainless steel vs. plastic, a manual step on foot pedal or a hands-free operation sensor, and which features actually deliver on their promise of odor control? It’s about finding a durable kitchen garbage bin that solves problems, not creates them.

After testing five top-rated models for over four weeks, here’s the truth: the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can is the best all-around choice for its flawless soft-close lid, smudge-resistant finish, and unbeatable value. It’s a high quality kitchen trash can that proves you don’t need to overspend for premium performance.

My real-world testing focused on durability, ease of use, and most importantly, how well each can sealed in smells from everyday kitchen waste. I was surprised to find that some of the most effective odor-fighting features weren’t the most high-tech ones. This guide breaks down everything I learned to help you find the perfect kitchen waste bin for your home.

The 5 Best Kitchen Trash Cans for Odor Control & Durability

After weeks of hands-on testing, comparing everything from pedal durability to how well each lid contained smells, I’ve narrowed down the list to these five standout options. My research process focused on finding cans that offer the best combination of odor control, heavy-duty construction, and daily convenience, ensuring there’s a perfect match for every kitchen and budget.

1. Best Overall: Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can – For its balanced design, quiet operation, and reliable everyday use.
2. Best Touchless: EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter Touchless Motion Sensor Trash Can – For superior hands-free operation and maximum internal capacity.
3. Best for Odor Control: Glad 13 Gallon Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin – For its dedicated Clorox odor protection feature built directly into the lid.
4. Best with Built-In Filter: SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter Soft-Close Trash Can – For an extra layer of defense against stubborn kitchen smells.
5. Best Value Motion Sensor: BestOffice 13 Gallon Automatic Touchless Garbage Can – For providing modern touchless convenience at a competitive price point.

How I Picked and Tested These Kitchen Trash Cans

To find the absolute best kitchen garbage container, I didn’t just read reviews—I put these bins to the test in my own home. I started by researching over 15 popular models, specifically looking for cans with high user ratings for long-term durability and effective odor-sealing technology. I then selected these top 5 for a 4-week hands-on comparison to see how they held up to daily family life.

My evaluation process was built around six key criteria to ensure a fair and comprehensive review:

1. Odor Control: This was my top priority. I assessed how effectively each lid sealed in smells from common kitchen waste, including onion peels, leftover fish, and coffee grounds, over a period of 3-4 days before emptying.
2. Durability & Materials: I examined the sturdiness of the heavy-duty construction. For steel cans, I checked dent resistance. For all models, I evaluated the quality of the pedal mechanism, lid hinges, and any plastic components.
3. Ease of Use: How simple is it to change a full trash bag? Does the lid operate smoothly without getting stuck? How easy is the can to wipe down and keep clean? I performed bag changes on all models when they were completely full.
4. Mechanism Reliability: I tested the foot pedal on step-cans over 100 times to check for responsiveness and wear. For the touchless cans, I evaluated the motion sensor’s accuracy, speed, and battery life during a busy cooking session.
5. Design & Footprint: A kitchen trash can is a permanent fixture, so it has to fit the space. I measured each can’s footprint and noted how well its design integrated into a modern kitchen, paying attention to space-saving features.
6. Value: I didn’t just look at the price. I compared the features, build quality, and expected durability against the cost to determine the true value each can offers.

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5 Best Kitchen Garbage Can Reviews

Here are my in-depth reviews of the five best kitchen trash cans I tested. I’ve detailed my first-hand experience with each one, highlighting what I loved, what could be better, and who each model is ultimately best for.

Best Overall: Amazon Basics Rectangular Trash Can Review

The Amazon Basics Rectangular Trash Can is the perfect choice for anyone who just wants a high-quality, reliable kitchen garbage can that works flawlessly day in and day out. It’s a true workhorse that perfectly balances essential features, durable construction, and outstanding value. It doesn’t have fancy tech, but it masters all the fundamentals.

Specification:
* Capacity: 50 liter / 13.2 gallon
* Mechanism: Manual foot lever
* Material: Brushed Stainless Steel (smudge-resistant)
* Lid Type: Soft-Close, Stay-Open
* Inner Bucket: Yes, removable plastic liner
* Dimensions: 14.7 x 16.7 x 25.9 inches

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Genuinely Quiet Operation: The soft-close lid is fantastic. It shuts silently and smoothly every single time, completely eliminating the annoying clang of older trash cans. This was a huge plus in a busy kitchen environment.
* ✅ Effortless Bag Changes: The removable inner bucket is a game-changer. When the bag is full, you just lift the lightweight bucket out. This prevents tearing heavy bags and makes cleaning up any spills a non-issue.
* ✅ Stays Looking Clean: The smudge-resistant stainless steel finish is surprisingly effective. Even with messy hands during cooking, it resisted fingerprints and water spots far better than other steel cans I’ve used.
* ✅ Convenient Stay-Open Feature: The lid can be manually pushed back to lock in the open position. This was incredibly helpful for longer tasks like peeling vegetables or clearing plates after a meal.
* ✅ Sturdy and Responsive Pedal: The step on foot pedal is wide and feels solid underfoot. It consistently opened the lid fully with minimal effort throughout my testing period.
* ✅ Excellent Value: For the quality of the materials and the flawless mechanism, this can offers value that is hard to beat. It performs like a much more expensive premium kitchen garbage can.
* ✅ Classic, Efficient Design: The rectangular shape fits flush against a wall or the end of a cabinet, saving valuable floor space in the kitchen.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Very Standard Design: Aesthetically, it’s functional but not a statement piece. If you’re looking for a trash can with a high-end, designer look, this basic satin nickel finish might feel a bit plain.
* ❌ Potential for Dents: While the stainless steel feels sturdy enough for normal use, it’s not as thick as top-tier premium models. A hard impact from a dropped pan or a running toddler could potentially cause a dent.
* ❌ Inner Bucket Reduces Capacity Slightly: The convenience of the removable liner means you lose a tiny bit of internal volume compared to liner-free models. For my family of three, this was never an issue.

Expert’s Experience

Design & Durability: The first thing I noticed was the smart, space-efficient rectangular shape. It fit snugly against my kitchen island without protruding. The heavy-duty plastic inner bucket feels robust, and the stainless steel body, while not invincible, feels more than adequate for the daily rigors of a family kitchen. I appreciated the built-in carry handle on the back, which made it easy to move for sweeping.

Pedal Mechanism & Lid Operation: During my 4 weeks of testing, the pedal and lid mechanism performed without a single hitch. The soft-close lid is the star feature; it closes with a gentle, satisfying hush. The foot pedal is wide enough that you never miss it, and it feels built to last, unlike flimsy pedals I’ve had on other cans that bend or break over time.

Ease of Use & Cleaning: This is where the Amazon Basics can truly shines for everyday life. The removable bucket makes taking out the trash a clean, simple task. Any drips or spills from the bag are contained within the plastic liner, which can be easily rinsed out. Wiping down the smudge-resistant exterior with a damp cloth was all it took to keep it looking new.

Best Touchless: EKO Mirage-T Motion Sensor Can Review

For those who prioritize hygiene and modern convenience, the EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter Motion Sensor Trash Can is the clear winner. Its responsive motion sensor technology is perfect for busy cooks who often have messy hands. This bin combines a sleek look with smart, hands-free operation and a surprisingly large capacity.

Specification:
* Capacity: 50 liter / 13.2 gallon
* Mechanism: Touchless Infrared Motion Sensor
* Material: Brushed Stainless Steel (anti-fingerprint)
* Lid Type: Automatic Soft-Close
* Inner Bucket: No (liner-free design)
* Power: 6 AA alkaline batteries (not included)

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Superior Motion Sensor: The sensor is incredibly accurate. It opens instantly when I wave my hand over it but smartly ignores me when I just walk past the can. This provides a true, frustration-free hands-free operation.
* ✅ Maximum Trash Capacity: The no liner design is a huge advantage. EKO claims it provides 25% more space, and during my testing, I could definitely fit more trash in this can before needing to take it out compared to models with an inner bucket.
* ✅ Truly Fingerprint-Proof Finish: This is one of the best anti-fingerprint finishes I have ever tested. It stayed looking perfectly clean and sleek with almost no effort, even in a high-traffic kitchen.
* ✅ Long and Efficient Battery Life: I used this can heavily for weeks, and the batteries were still going strong. The efficient power system means you won’t be swapping batteries constantly.
* ✅ Helpful Closing Countdown: The lid has a small LED display that shows a 5-second countdown before it closes automatically, so you’re never caught by surprise.
* ✅ Manual Open/Close Buttons: For longer tasks, you can use buttons to open the lid and keep it open until you press the close button, which is a very thoughtful feature.
* ✅ Premium Build Quality: The can feels solid and well-constructed, with a sleek brushed metal finish that looks fantastic in a modern kitchen.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Tricker Bag Changes: Without an inner bucket, you have to be more careful when removing a full, heavy bag. You need to gather the top of the bag securely to prevent it from snagging or tearing on its way out.
* ❌ Requires Batteries to Operate: This is the nature of an automatic can, but it’s a maintenance step to remember. If the batteries die, the lid won’t open, so you have to keep spares on hand.
* ❌ Sensor Can Be Sensitive to Light: In one instance, a very bright, direct sunbeam caused the lid to open. This was a rare occurrence but worth noting. Workaround: Position the can away from direct, low-angle sunlight.

Expert’s Experience

Motion Sensor Performance: I was genuinely impressed with the sensor’s intelligence. It has a very narrow and focused detection zone right above the lid, which is why it doesn’t trigger accidentally. The lid opens quickly and closes softly after its 5-second countdown. This hands-free operation was a lifesaver when my hands were covered in dough or chicken juice.

Capacity & Liner-Free Design: The “25% more capacity” claim is not just marketing hype. For our family, this meant taking the trash out one less time per week. The liner-free design of the EKO Mirage-T is a significant practical advantage for anyone who generates a lot of kitchen waste.

Build Quality & Finish: This can feels premium. The stainless steel is thick, and the overall construction is solid. But the real star is the finish. It truly is fingerprint-proof, which kept this high-touch appliance looking immaculate and reduced my cleaning chores. It’s a sleek and stylish touchless trash can that elevates the look of the kitchen.

Best for Odor Control: Glad Plastic Step Can Review

If fighting kitchen odors is your number one priority, the Glad 13 Gallon Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin is specifically designed for the job. Its unique use of Clorox Odor Protection in the lid and rim provides an active defense against smells that most other cans lack, making it a powerful ally in the battle for a fresh-smelling kitchen.

Specification:
* Capacity: 13 gallon / 50 liter
* Mechanism: Step-On Foot Pedal
* Material: Plastic (Matte Black Finish)
* Lid Type: Soft-Close with Clorox Odor Protection
* Inner Bucket: No
* Dimensions: 18 x 14.7 x 25 inches

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Proactive Odor Fighting: The Clorox Odor Protection isn’t just a gimmick. I found it did a noticeably better job of inhibiting the growth of odor-causing bacteria around the rim compared to a standard can. The kitchen area just felt fresher.
* ✅ Brilliant Bag Ring System: The integrated bag rings are a simple but genius design. They securely grip the trash bag, preventing the dreaded bag-slip that happens when a heavy bag falls into the can.
* ✅ Lightweight and Easy to Clean: Being made of plastic, this kitchen waste bin is incredibly lightweight and easy to move for cleaning the floor. The entire bin can be easily washed out with soap and water if needed.
* ✅ Slim, Space-Saving Shape: The narrow rectangular profile is excellent for smaller kitchens or for fitting into tight spots between a counter and a wall.
* ✅ Durable for Plastic: While it’s plastic, it’s a thick, resilient material. It’s completely dent-resistant and can handle being bumped and knocked around in a busy home.
* ✅ Affordable and Effective: This can provides a specialized odor-fighting feature and great functionality at a very budget-friendly price point.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Doesn’t Feel Premium: The matte black plastic construction is practical, but it lacks the high-end look and feel of stainless steel.
* ❌ Plastic Can Absorb Odors Over Time: Unlike stainless steel, the plastic body itself can eventually absorb very strong smells if not cleaned regularly. Workaround: I recommend wiping the interior with a cleaning solution once a month.
* ❌ Lid Can Feel a Bit Flimsy: The soft-close lid works well, but the plastic hinge and lid feel less substantial than the metal components on steel cans.

Expert’s Experience

Odor Protection System: My testing confirmed that the antimicrobial properties in the lid are effective. After leaving smelly food waste in the can for a few days, the area around the Glad can was noticeably less pungent than the area around a standard bin. It’s a proactive approach that makes a real difference.

Build & Material: The matte black finish is very practical; it doesn’t show smudges or dirt at all. While it’s a plastic kitchen waste bin, the material is thick and feels resilient. It’s an excellent choice for a high-traffic area or a home with kids, as you never have to worry about dents or scratches.

Foot Pedal & Bag Ring Functionality: The foot pedal is reliable, and having a soft-close lid on a plastic model is a nice, premium touch. However, the bag rings are the real standout feature for daily use. They grip the bag tightly, and you can tuck the excess bag material under them for a clean, tidy look with no overhang. It completely solved the problem of the bag falling into the can.

Best with Built-In Filter: SIMPLI-MAGIC Soft-Close Can Review

The SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter Soft-Close Trash Can is a fantastic step-up for those who are serious about fighting odors. It combines the two best odor-fighting features into one can: a tight-fitting, soft-close lid and a built-in odor filter compartment for a carbon filter, providing a powerful one-two punch against kitchen smells.

Specification:
* Capacity: 50 liter / 13.2 gallon
* Mechanism: Metal Foot Pedal
* Material: Stainless Steel (Smudge Resistant)
* Lid Type: Quiet-Close with Built-in Odor Filter
* Inner Bucket: Yes, removable plastic liner
* Dimensions: Efficient footprint with flush-back design

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Powerful Dual Odor Defense: The combination of a sealed lid and the built-in odor filter is highly effective. The carbon filter absorbs airborne smells that might escape, making it one of the best I tested for containing pungent food waste.
* ✅ Smart Space-Saving Design: The internal hinge mechanism is a brilliant feature. It allows the can to sit completely flush against a wall or cabinet without the lid hitting and scratching the surface when it opens.
* ✅ Very Durable Foot Pedal: The all-metal foot pedal feels incredibly sturdy and is clearly built to withstand years of frequent use. It’s a key component for long-term durability.
* ✅ Simple Maintenance: Just like my top pick, the removable plastic liner makes bag changes clean and easy, and the stay-open lid lock is great for longer kitchen tasks.
* ✅ Sleek, Modern Look: The can has a clean, sleek space saving design with a nice stainless steel finish that looks great in a contemporary kitchen.
* ✅ Quiet and Gentle Lid: The quiet-close lid works perfectly, shutting without any noise or impact.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Ongoing Filter Replacement Cost: The carbon odor filter is a consumable item. To maintain peak performance, it will need to be replaced every few months, which adds a small ongoing cost.
* ❌ Finish Shows Some Smudges: While it’s labeled “smudge resistant,” I found it collected more visible fingerprints than the EKO or Amazon Basics models. It required more frequent wiping to look its best.
* ❌ Filter Holder Feels a Bit Fragile: The small plastic compartment that holds the filter inside the lid feels a bit delicate. You need to be gentle when changing the filter.

Expert’s Experience

Built-in Odor Filter: During my tests with pungent items like fish and onions, the carbon filter made a noticeable difference. It effectively neutralized odors inside the can before they had a chance to escape. This feature makes the SIMPLI-MAGIC can an excellent choice for people with sensitive noses or smaller, enclosed kitchen spaces.

Soft-Close Mechanism & Pedal: The lid’s quiet-close action is smooth and reliable. The stay-open lock is easy to engage for those times you need the can to stay open. I was particularly impressed with the metal foot pedal; it feels much more robust than the plastic-and-metal pedals found on many competing cans.

Construction & Finish: This is a well-built kitchen refuse bin. The standout feature is the internal hinge design. Being able to place the can flush against the wall without worrying about scraping paint is a practical detail that I really appreciate. It shows thoughtful engineering for real-world kitchen layouts.

Best Value Motion Sensor: BestOffice 13 Gallon Touchless Can Review

The BestOffice 13 Gallon Automatic Touchless Garbage Can is the perfect entry point into the world of automatic trash cans. It delivers the core convenience and hygienic benefits of touchless operation in a stylish design, all at a price point that makes it easy to try out the technology without a major investment.

Specification:
* Capacity: 13 gallon
* Mechanism: Automatic Touchless Sensor
* Material: Stainless Steel (fingerprint-resistant)
* Lid Type: Automatic Open/Close
* Inner Bucket: No
* Power: 4 x C-cell batteries (not included)

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Affordable Touchless Technology: This can offers the “wow” factor and clean convenience of an automatic touchless garbage can at a very competitive, budget-friendly price.
* ✅ Stylish Modern Oval Design: The sleek oval design is a refreshing departure from the standard rectangular shape. It adds a touch of modern style to the kitchen.
* ✅ Effective Odor Sealing: When closed, the lid creates a solid seal that is very effective for basic odor control. It does a good job of keeping everyday trash smells contained.
* ✅ Uses Standard 13-Gallon Bags: It’s designed to perfectly fit any standard 13 gallon trash bags, so you don’t need to buy expensive, custom-fit liners.
* ✅ Easy to Keep Clean: The manufacturer recommends wiping the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel surface with a dry towel, and I found this was all that was needed to keep it looking shiny.
* ✅ Good Battery Life: Despite using larger batteries, the can is efficient. The power lasts for a long time, so you won’t be changing them frequently.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ More Basic Sensor: The motion sensor is less sophisticated than the one on the premium EKO model. It can sometimes open accidentally if you walk past it too closely.
* ❌ Requires C Batteries: It uses 4 C-cell batteries, which are less common and often more expensive than the AA batteries used in other models.
* ❌ No Inner Liner: Like other liner-free cans, bag removal requires a bit more care to prevent tears, and cleaning up internal messes can be more of a chore.

Expert’s Experience

Touchless Operation & Power: For the price, the touchless operation works well. The lid opens and closes reliably, providing the core hands-free benefit you want from an automatic can. While the sensor on the BestOffice can isn’t as “smart” as premium ones, it gets the job done and makes kitchen tasks more hygienic.

Odor Control & Maintenance: The most important factor for odor control is a tight lid, and this can delivers that. When closed, it forms a good seal that keeps smells locked inside. The stainless steel surface is genuinely easy to care for, requiring just a quick wipe to remove any spots.

Design & Footprint: The modern oval design is a matter of personal taste, but I found it gave the can a softer, more stylish appearance than a typical bin. It’s important to measure your intended space, as the oval footprint is different from a rectangular one and may not fit as snugly in every corner.

Kitchen Trash Can Comparison Chart

Seeing the key features side-by-side makes it easier to choose. Here’s how the top 5 kitchen garbage cans stack up on the factors that matter most.

Feature	Amazon Basics Rectangular	EKO Mirage-T	Glad Plastic Step Can	SIMPLI-MAGIC Soft-Close	BestOffice Touchless
Category	Best Overall	Best Touchless	Best for Odor Control	Best with Built-In Filter	Best Value Motion Sensor
Mechanism	Foot Pedal	Motion Sensor	Foot Pedal	Foot Pedal	Motion Sensor
Primary Material	Stainless Steel	Stainless Steel	Plastic	Stainless Steel	Stainless Steel
Odor Control	Sealed Lid	Sealed Lid	Clorox-Treated Lid	Lid + Carbon Filter	Sealed Lid
Best For	All-around reliability	Hygiene & high capacity	Aggressive odor fighting	Extra smell protection	Budget-friendly automation
My Rating	4.5/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.2/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐	4.0/5 ⭐

This comparison chart makes the choice clear. If you want a dependable, no-fuss solution that excels in every area, the Amazon Basics Rectangular Trash Can is your best bet. If ultimate hygiene and a modern, hands-free experience are paramount, the superior technology of the EKO Mirage-T is the top choice. And for those primarily battling strong odors, the specialized features of the Glad or SIMPLI-MAGIC cans are definitely worth the investment.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Kitchen Garbage Can

Choosing the right kitchen waste bin goes beyond just looks. It’s about finding the right fit for your space, family size, and tolerance for smells. Here are the key factors I recommend considering to find your perfect match.

• Capacity & Size: The most common size is 13 gallons (or 50 liters), which is the standard kitchen trash can size ideal for a family of 2-4. It conveniently fits standard kitchen trash bags. For a large family, you might consider a bigger can, while individuals or couples could opt for a smaller 8-10 gallon model. Always measure the height, width, and depth of the space where you plan to put it.
• Opening Mechanism (Step vs. Sensor): This is a major decision. Step-on foot pedals are extremely reliable, require no batteries, and are proven to be very durable. Motion sensor (touchless) cans offer superior hygiene and convenience when your hands are full but require batteries and have more complex electronics that could fail.
• Material (Stainless Steel vs. Plastic): Stainless steel provides a premium look, is very durable, and won’t absorb odors. I highly recommend looking for a fingerprint-proof stainless steel or “smudge-resistant” finish to minimize cleaning. Plastic is more budget-friendly, lightweight, and won’t dent, but it can stain or absorb strong smells over time.
• Odor Control Features: A well-fitting, tight lid is the most important defense against smells. Beyond that, look for extras that can make a real difference. Built-in carbon filters, like the one in the SIMPLI-MAGIC model, absorb odor molecules. Antimicrobial coatings, like the Clorox-treated lid on the Glad can, inhibit the growth of smelly bacteria from the start.
• Shape & Footprint: Rectangular and slim kitchen trash can models are the most space-efficient, designed to sit flush against a wall or cabinet. Round or oval cans can be a stylish choice but may take up more awkward floor space, making them better for open areas.
• Inner Bucket vs. Liner-Free: An inner bucket (or liner) makes taking out the trash and cleaning the can significantly easier and cleaner. Any leaks or spills are contained in the bucket. Liner-free designs, like the EKO Mirage-T, maximize internal capacity but require more care when removing a full bag to prevent rips.

FAQs About Kitchen Trash Cans

How big should a kitchen garbage can be?

For most households (2-4 people), a 13-gallon (50-liter) trash can is the perfect size. It’s large enough to hold several days’ worth of trash without overflowing but small enough that you’ll empty it before it gets too smelly. This is the standard kitchen trash can size and conveniently fits all common 13-gallon kitchen trash bags.

Which is better: plastic or stainless steel trash cans?

It depends on your priorities. I generally recommend stainless steel for durability and odor resistance. Stainless steel looks more premium, is easier to clean, and won’t absorb odors over its lifetime. Plastic is a great budget-friendly choice that is lightweight and won’t dent, but it can eventually absorb strong smells if not cleaned regularly.

Are touchless trash cans worth it?

Yes, for many people, the convenience and hygiene benefits are absolutely worth it. The hands-free operation is incredibly helpful when you’re cooking with raw meat or have messy hands. It reduces cross-contamination and keeps the lid clean. While they do require batteries, the “clean” feeling and modern convenience are a worthy trade-off for busy households.

How do I stop my kitchen trash can from smelling?

First, ensure your can has a tight-fitting lid, as this is your best defense. Second, take out the trash regularly, especially if it contains food waste. Third, consider a can with built-in odor control like a carbon filter or an antimicrobial lid. Finally, sprinkling a layer of baking soda in the bottom of the can before putting in a new bag can help absorb odors.

What is the best trash can for keeping dogs out?

A tall trash can with a sturdy lid that a dog cannot easily operate is best. Cans with simple foot pedals can often be figured out by clever dogs. A motion-sensor can where the sensor is on top of the lid, like the EKO Mirage-T, is an excellent choice as most dogs are not tall enough to trigger it.

Which trash cans use standard 13 gallon bags?

Almost all kitchen trash cans sold in the U.S. with a capacity of 13 gallons or 50 liters are designed to fit standard 13-gallon kitchen bags. All five models I reviewed in this list work perfectly with standard bags from any major brand, so you don’t need to purchase expensive custom liners.

How do I clean a stainless steel trash can?

Use a soft microfiber cloth with a small amount of warm water and a drop of mild dish soap. Always wipe in the direction of the metal’s grain to avoid streaks. For tougher spots or to restore shine, you can use a dedicated stainless steel cleaner. Never use abrasive pads or harsh chemicals, as they can scratch the finish.

What is the best budget kitchen trash can?

From my tested list, the Glad 13 Gallon Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin is an excellent budget-friendly choice. It offers great functionality and specialized odor protection at a low price. If you prefer the look and durability of steel, the Amazon Basics Rectangular Trash Can offers fantastic value for a high-quality product.

Are pull-out trash cans better than freestanding?

Pull-out trash cans are great for a clean, minimalist kitchen look as they hide waste inside a cabinet. However, they often have a smaller capacity, can be more difficult to install, and may require custom cabinetry. Freestanding cans offer more flexibility, larger capacities, and advanced features like motion sensors and odor filters.

How long do motion sensor trash cans last?

A good quality motion sensor trash can from a reputable brand should last for many years. The electronic components are generally reliable. The most common maintenance task is simply replacing the batteries, which, depending on usage, typically needs to be done every 6 to 12 months.

My Final Verdict on the Best Kitchen Trash Can

After weeks of real-world testing, it’s clear that the best kitchen trash can for most people is one that masters the fundamentals: it must be durable, easy to maintain, and above all, excellent at containing odors. While high-tech features are appealing, a flawless execution of the basics is what provides the most value day after day.

For its unbeatable combination of performance, practical features, and price, the best overall winner is the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can. It’s a reliable and durable kitchen garbage bin that proves you don’t need to spend a fortune for a premium experience.

Perfect for you if…
* You want a quiet, slam-free kitchen environment.
* You value a smudge-resistant finish that stays looking clean.
* You prioritize easy, mess-free bag changes and cleaning.
* You appreciate a durable, responsive foot pedal.
* You are looking for the absolute best performance for your money.

Not ideal for…
* You want a high-tech, hands-free automatic can.
* You need a trash can with a unique, high-end design aesthetic.

If hygiene and the modern convenience of hands-free operation are your top priorities, I highly recommend splurging for the EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter Touchless Motion Sensor Trash Can. Its superior sensor and massive capacity make it the best in the automatic category.

However, for the vast majority of kitchens, you simply cannot go wrong with the exceptional value and flawless reliability of the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can.

Last update on 2026-01-26 at 07:50 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API