Image: MomJunction Design Team
Properly managing your daily garbage disposal properly is essential to keep your house clean and maintain hygiene. So, we have brought a list of the best kitchen trash cans to help you choose the right one. Trash cans make tossing garbage easy and encourage easy cleaning of the kitchen. They also keep the odor in check to prevent it from spreading throughout the house.
So, choosing a good-quality trash can with a practical design can help keep your kitchen organized and clean. Available in multiple designs, sizes, and colors, choosing the right one for your kitchen can be tricky. So, you can check out the available options and features to ensure the trash can suits your requirements and fits your kitchen’s aesthetic.
Top Picks
15 Best Kitchen Trash Cans That Actually Look Good, 2024
1. Best Battery Life:iTouchless Stainless Steel Garbage Can
Image: Itouchless 
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The whopping 59,927 positive reviews on Amazon reflect the superior quality of this product.
With carbon filters that absorb odor and prevent trash from making your kitchen unbearable to stay in, this trash can also provides a 100% touch-free option. It has a 49-liter capacity that is more than enough room for trash, so you are not compelled to constantly empty it more times than you need. Powered by 4D batteries or an AC adapter depending on your choice, this kitchen trash has a long-lasting plastic lid, is fingerprint-proof, smudge-resistant, and has a reflex technology that stops it from closing once it senses your hand movements. Click here to check out a detailed personal review of this step can for trash.
Pros
- Odor control with AbsorbX technology
- Space-saving
- 2 power options
- Lid status alert
- Energy-efficient
- Long battery life
Cons
- Batteries and adapter not included
2. Best Silent Lid:Simple Human Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can
Image: Simple Human This kitchen trash can has improved trash bags that keep the trash can clean. It comes with a lock-the-lid feature that shuts the trash can to keep children and pets from accessing the contents inside. Designed with cutting-edge technology, the lid of this trash can closes silently. Taking up just a little space in the kitchen, it is made to last 20 steps a day for about 20 years with its strong steel pedal. This product review cum testing video can help you know more about this plastic bin.
Pros
- Slim shape
- Durable pedal
- Slide lock
- Patented silent lid
Cons
- Some may find the capacity inadequate
"The best thing about this trash can is the pedal on the bottom, which allows me to use it hand-free. Besides, its wheels make it easy to take out the trash, and the side locks keep my pets from digging into it."
Quick tip3. Best Space-Saving:Rubbermaid Step On Lid Trash Can
Image: The Home Demo Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The 10,140 positive customer reviews on Amazon are a testament to its quality and reliability.
This plastic trash can is equipped with a pedal, which makes it easy for you to dispose of garbage without having to touch the bin with your hands. The trademarked Linerlock technology ensures that the trash bag is secured to the rim and doesn’t slip off. It is also easy to clean, and it has a durable steel pedal. The affordable trash can has a sturdy look and can be placed in any room in the house.
Pros
- Long-lasting pedal
- Strong resin make
- Space-saving
- Can fit small spaces
Cons
- The customer may have to assemble the trash can themselves.
iTouchless Stainless Steel Garbage Can Best Battery Life | Simple Human Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can Best Silent Lid | Rubbermaid Step On Lid Trash Can Best Space-Saving | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shape | Rectangular | Rectangular | Oval |
| Color | 13 Gallon Black / Stainless Steel | Black | Black |
| Material | Stainless Steel | Plastic | Plastic |
| Batteries | 4 D batteries required | - | - |
| Dimensions | 12.7 x 10.8 x 27.2 inches | 18.6"L x 10.1"W x 24.9"H | 17.6"L x 14.7"W x 24.8"H |
| Weight | 8 Pounds | - | - |
| Weight | - | 16 Ounces | 4.66 pounds |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 59,927 | 25,384 | 10,140 |
| Price | $89.99 | $49.99 | $39.99 |
4. Best Non-Skid Base:NineStars Automatic Touchless Trash Can
Image: Ninestars Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 12,605 reviews on Amazon, this product is a winner.
This kitchen trash can hits this list because of its great features, like water resistance and a stainless steel finish. It is equipped with an infrared motion sensor that helps to prevent moisture. It also boasts an impressive battery life, and the delayed sensing technology ensures that pets and children don’t get into the contents of the bin. This stainless steel bin requires 2C and 3C batteries and prevents odors, while the removable ring liner keeps the trash bag secure. This review video showcasing a tester’s experience can help you make an informed decision.
Pros
- Non-skid base
- Removable bucket liner
- Fingerprint-resistant
- Motor sensor lid
Cons
- Batteries not included
"I use the larger can for my kitchen waste and the smaller one for my room. Both of these are durable and serve the purpose well. There has been the occasional sensory issue, but those have been too few and far between to seem like a drawback."
Quick tip5. Best Anti-Scratch Design:Best Office Garbage Can Automatic Trash Can
Image: Best Office This durable waste bin is made of stainless steel and is equipped with touchless technology that ensures you open the lid and throw your trash in with little or no sound, and in the most hygienic manner. With a capacity of 13.2 gallons, this metal trash can is sure to take in all your trash without stressing you over where to keep the trash before disposing of it while also preventing odors from spreading out.
Pros
- Fingerprint-resistant
- Infrared technology
- Anti-scratch
- Motion sensor opens lid in 0.3 seconds
Cons
- It may not be energy-efficient.
"I have been using this can for a few months and am very impressed with its stainless steel build. Its sensor is also pretty responsive and has sustained the rough handling of my little family members. It looked small in the picture but has easily accommodated everyday trash."
6. Best Capacity:Glad Stainless Steel Trash Can
Equipped with a 20-gallon trash capacity, this outdoor and indoor trash can from Glad outranks traditional trash cans, giving you a chance to fit in more trash. The Cloroxtm lid protection helps to prevent odor and keeps the lid from gathering dirt, waste, grime, and mold. You can also store extra bags behind the can in the rear compartment. Made with high-quality stainless steel, the can is fingerprint-resistant and the lid shuts softly.
Pros
- Odor protection
- Durable foot pedal
- ABS lid
- Large capacity
- Has a rectangular step
Cons
- Slightly heavy
"This trash bin accommodates a large amount of waste; hence, I don't have to empty it frequently. Its compatibility with different bags is also much appreciated. While its build is top-notch, I do have to be careful when cleaning its top as it has some grooves."
7. Best Easy-To-Install:Rev-A-Shelf Sliding Pull-Out Kitchen Cabinet Waste Bin
Image: Image: Rev-a-shelf This waste bin comes with a 35-quart pull-out waste container that gives the option to either keep it hidden or keep it out in the open, especially since it is installed under the cabinet. It is also easily installable, and you can decide to put a lid on it. Made with a chrome-plated and wired construction frame, it effortlessly slides in and out and can be used as an indoor or outdoor pull-out bin for garbage.
Pros
- Ball bearing on the plate
- 4-screw installation
- 2 trash cans
- 70-quart capacity
Cons
- May not be space-saving
"I recently installed these under my kitchen cabinet, and they have fit snugly. Their sliding mechanism is also pretty smooth and allows me to use the bin even when it's filled with heavy trash items."
8. Best Sleek Design:Amazon Basics Trash Can
Image: Amazon This trash can has a modern, easily accessible design and is made to fit into tight spaces while complementing the room. The trash can is smudge-resistant, has a stainless steel exterior, a removable interior bucket, steel foot pedal, and finally, rubber pads on the bottom. It boasts a 4-gallon capacity and also comes with a soft-close lid.
Pros
- Step open mechanism
- Heavy-duty plastic container
- Stay-open mode
- Sleek design
Cons
- The capacity may not be enough for larger families.
"This compact trash bin has been perfect for my small kitchen as it does not take up too much space yet is sturdy enough to keep the odors from leaking. Its stay-open lid even makes it easy to remove the liners. It has also proven durable enough to withstand the swipes from my pets."
9. Best Smudge-Proof:Home Zone Living Trash Can
Image: Home Zone Living If you are environmentally conscious and believe in sustainable living, this trash is designed just for you. It comes with a 5-gallon recyclable compartment, and an 8-gallon waste compartment. The cantilever pedal ensures a hands-free, mess-free, and easy disposal of garbage. Featuring a functional trash can design and a trash bag tucking liner, you can rest assured that the bag stays in place without much hassle.
Pros
- Non-skid base
- Stay open option
- Metal pedal
- Dual-compartment
- Smudge-proof
Cons
- It may not close softly.
10. Best Easy-To-Hold Handles:Hembor Dual Trash Can
Image: Hembor This trash can opens slowly and silently. The trash can comes with 2 compartments divided into 30 liters each, that help to segregate waste. Rectangular in shape and sporting a modern design, this stylish trash can stands at 26 inches. It features an anti-skid base, an anti-fingerprint design, individual step pedals, and removable plastic inner buckets.
Pros
- Prevents garbage leakage
- Easy-to-hold handles
- Rectangular step-on pedal
- Stainless steel make
Cons
- Some may find it bulky and heavy
"Owing to the two-basket design, I have been able to segregate my trash efficiently. I also find it easy to access its foot pedal, and the noise-free closing mechanism is a bonus. Moreover, the built-in handles have made moving it around the house a breeze."
11. Best Dual Compartments:EKO Ecocasa Trash Can
Image: Eko This trash can is equipped with 2 compartments that holds your trash in one, and your recyclables in another. It is fingerprint-resistant, and can be easily cleaned if smeared with dirt. With this tried-and-tested trash can, you also get the option to leave it open, and if you decide to close it, the soft-close feature makes closing noiseless. The smart-looking step-on trash has additional features such as trash bag holders, side handles for easy carrying, an in-built deodorizer compartment, a cantilever step pedal, and inner liners to make cleaning easier.
Pros
- Dual compartments
- Side handles
- Stay-open lid
- Smudge-resistant
Cons
- Some may find it too short.
"The different colored trash bins have made it easy for everyone in my family to separate wet and dry waste. It's quite spacious, yet the handles help me move them effortlessly. Also, it does not hold onto fingerprints; therefore, I only have to wipe it occasionally."
Do remember12. Best Classic Swing Lid:Umbra Venti Swing-Top Kitchen Trash
Image: Umbra Unique to this trash can is the swing-top lid that helps to keep garbage away from sight as the neck hides the garbage bag. The swing top also makes it easy to use, unlike trash cans with foot pedals. Made of black polypropylene, it makes for a long-lasting and easy-to-maintain waste management solution. This plastic trash can is 35 inches tall with a 62-liter capacity, and it can accommodate 20 and 30-gallon trash bags.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Classic swing lid
- Integrated neck ring
- Large capacity
- Brushed metallic accents
Cons
- It may not have an anti-slip base.
13. Best Fingerprint-Proof:Home Zone Living Kitchen Trash Can
Image: Home Zone Living A sleek and well-designed trash can can not only serve the purpose of keeping all your garbage and waste in one place while preventing foul odors, it can also can a sense of neatness to any kitchen or room. This trash can does just that. It’s semi-circular shape allows it to be space-saving, and the silent motion option allows you to open and close the can hands-free. The durable step pedal also helps you quickly access the bin, and as it is fingerprint-proof, it’s easy to wipe clean as well.
Pros
- Clear-coated finish
- Bag tuck band
- Collared ring frame
- Easy handle cut-outs
Cons
- Some may find the capacity inadequate.
"Features like the sleek build and sturdy pedal have made it a functional yet aesthetically pleasing find for my kitchen. Its concealed trash bag system was a pleasant surprise. Although I am yet to see how it performs in the long run, the start has been excellent."
14. Best With Removable Bucket: Songmics Stainless Steel Kitchen Garbage Can
Image: Songmics Made of high-quality stainless steel, the Songmics garbage can is durable and rust- and fingerprint-resistant. It features a detachable PP plastic bucket with a built-in handle for easy cleaning. This step can also has an odor-sealing lid and is equipped with a built-in buffer for noiseless and soft closure. In addition, the rear side of the trash bin has a handle that allows you to move it comfortably. Moreover, this hygienic garbage bin has a bottom pedal, allowing one-step and hands-free operation.
Pros
- Holds up to 13 gallons of trash
- Inner bucket has a bag hole
- Lid can stay open at 90 degrees
- Sleek and effective design
Cons
- May not be dent-resistant
"Unlike my old trash can, this one does not release any odors, even when I fill it with soiled diapers. The slot for the bag also conceals the edges of the bag, keeping my curious tot and pet from fiddling with it. Its capacity is satisfactory, too, and I love that the lid shuts without a clang."
15. Best Waterproof:Best Office Automatic Trash Can
Image: Best Office Once you open this trash can, you have a 7-second window to drop in the trash before the lid closes after the infrared switch is triggered. The infrared sensor, a special feature, can also help you open the lid without having to touch it. It is airtight and contains bad odors. It also has a power button through which you can power off the can when not in use.
Pros
- Non-skid base
- Waterproof
- Easy installation
- Easy to use
- Suitable for small spaces
Cons
- The 7-second window may feel short for some.
"The sensor and self-bagging system have made this trash can a smart buy. It's sleek, too, and seamlessly fits my under-cabinet storage area. While I have to keep its exteriors dry for the sensor to work without glitching, I consider it a minor hassle compared to its benefits."
Now that we have looked at the 15 best trash cans you can buy in 2024, here are a few things to keep in mind before buying one.
How To Choose The Right Kitchen Trash Cans
- Volume
In choosing the right kitchen trash can that will suit your taste, you have to look for the volume of the trash can. Because they vary from about 60 liters to about 30 liters in capacity, you will have to look out for the one that fits your needs. If you want just a portable one, you can get small ones like the Tuyafiro Kitchen Compost Bin. If you want a bigger one, you can opt for something like the Umbra-Venti Swing-Top Bin.
- Odor
Different trash cans have different mechanisms to deal with odor. If you want to get the best trash can, you should look out for the one with the best odor-cancelation mechanism in place.
- Ease in handling
Trash cans vary in handling largely due to their size or different features. For convenience, you should look out for expert-recommended ones that will be easy to handle. Look for ones that come with a foot pedal, a movement sensor, and one with easy-to-lift handles.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What size is suitable for a trash can?
The standard size of trash cans varies from 10 to 20 gallons. However, keep in mind the under-sink space dimensions and the number of members in the household to choose the appropriate size.
2. Where should I put a trash can in my kitchen?
The kitchen trash can should be placed away from the edibles. Therefore, you can place it under or beside the sink, under the kitchen counter, or in a low-level closet.
3. How do I clean a kitchen trash can?
Most plastic-based or rustproof kitchen trash cans can be wiped or scrubbed with soapy water. However, always clean the outside first and then the inside. Then, wipe with a wet paper towel to remove the soap and let it sun dry.
4. How do I hide a trash can in a kitchen?
Placing the kitchen trash can in the low-lying cabinet or the kitchen sink vanity can keep it concealed.
5. How do I keep a kitchen trash can from sliding on the floor?
Placing the kitchen trash can on a rubber mat or a pull-out rack can prevent it from sliding on the floor.
6. What’s the best way to keep pets out of my trash?
One of the best ways to keep pets away from the trash can is to place it in a closed cabinet. If it needs to be placed in the open, it’s better to opt for a bin with a lock mechanism-enabled lid.
7. Are steel trash cans better?
Steel trash cans offer durability, provided they have built-in plastic containers or are properly lined with a garbage bag. They reduce the need to clean frequently with water as they are rust-resistant but not rustproof.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Sakshi John, our in-house writer and reviewer, writes extensively about kitchen and household items that can make your tasks easier. She brings you this list of the best kitchen trash cans after reviewing and comparing several products and their user reviews on several e-commerce websites. The products on this list are sleek, compact, durable, and easy to clean. Furthermore, she has mentioned the pros and cons of each product and included a trash can buying guide to help you pick the right product.
The Bottom Line
Buying a kitchen trash can is an excellent way to keep your kitchen clean while keeping the trash ready for disposal. Trash cans for kitchens come with various impressive features, such as odor filters, lids, foot pedals, handles, and movement sensors. It allows you to handpick a trash can that meets your requirements and needs. Investing in a good-quality, sturdy kitchen trash can is recommended, as it can save you from the hassle of replacing it with a new one too soon. We recommend the Glad Stainless Steel Trash Can for optimal odor protection and the SimpleHuman Slim Kitchen Step Trash Can with a silent locking lid. You may also consider the Umbra Venti Swing-Top Kitchen Trash for its extra-large capacity. Once you pick the right trash can for your kitchen, waste management and keeping your kitchen hygienic becomes a cinch.
Infographic: How To Keep Bugs And Pests Away From Trash Cans?
The smell of old and rotting vegetable peels, spoilt food, diapers, and other organic and inorganic trash can attract a lot of pests and insects. These little creatures can make family members sick as they can be carriers of multiple diseases. Read the infographic to learn some tricks to keep them away from your trash bins.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
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