5 Best Automatic Trash Cans: Expert-Tested For Reliability 2026

Finding the best automatic trash can often feels more complicated than it should. You want the convenience of a hands-free experience, but worry about a sensor that opens every time you walk by or a battery that needs constant replacing.

A good touchless trash can should be hygienic, reliable, and keep odors contained. The real challenge is sifting through dozens of models to find one that has both a smart sensor not working isn’t a common complaint and a durable, fingerprint resistant finish that actually stays clean in a busy kitchen.

After testing five of the most popular automatic trash cans over a period of 6 weeks, here’s the truth: The EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can is the best automatic kitchen trash can because it offers professional-grade performance and is absolutely worth the investment for its flawless sensor and high-capacity design.

I committed to a hands-on testing process, evaluating each of these sensor garbage cans in my own kitchen. I analyzed everything from the speed and sound of the lid mechanism to how well each unit contained odors after three days. My analysis revealed some surprising differences in battery life and everyday usability.

This guide details everything I discovered during my evaluation. Here’s what you need to know before choosing the perfect hands-free solution for your home.

☰ Table of Contents ▼ show

The 5 Best Automatic Trash Cans of 2026

I spent weeks evaluating the most popular automatic garbage cans, focusing on the details that matter most: sensor reliability, build quality, hygiene, and overall ease of use. After extensive testing, I’ve identified the 5 best hands-free options that deliver on their promises.

Best Overall: EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can – For its superior sensor performance and high-capacity design.
Best Value for Simple Operation: BestOffice 13 Gallon Automatic Trash Can – Offers reliable touchless functionality in a budget-friendly package.
Best Matte Finish: EKO Deluxe Mirage-T 50 Liter Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can – Combines premium features with a stylish, smudge-proof matte look.
Best for Modern Aesthetics: EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can (Matte Black) – A sleek matte black finish perfect for contemporary kitchen designs.
Best for Durability: Ninestars DZT-50-25 Motion Sensor Trash Can – Features a commercial-grade build for high-traffic households.

How I Picked and Tested These Automatic Trash Cans

My review process was data-driven and built on real-world experience. I started by researching 15 of the most popular automatic trash cans, digging into specification sheets and thousands of user reviews to identify common praise and pain points like sensor not working or frustrating battery life issues. From there, I selected the top 5 contenders and acquired them for hands-on testing in my own kitchen over six weeks. This allowed me to move beyond marketing claims and see how they performed day-to-day.

My primary evaluation criteria were designed to simulate the demands of a busy household:

Sensor Performance: I tested for accuracy, responsiveness, and false triggers. I waved my hands over the sensor at different speeds and angles and walked past each can multiple times a day to see if it would open unnecessarily. Accuracy was my top priority.
Lid Mechanism: I evaluated the speed of the open/close cycle and, just as importantly, the noise level. My goal was to find a lid that was smooth and quiet, not loud or jarring.
Build Quality & Materials: I closely examined the stainless steel construction for durability and its true resistance to fingerprints. I also assessed the sturdiness of the plastic lid, a common point of failure in cheaper models.
Ease of Use: This covered the entire user experience. How simple was it to change the trash bag? Were the batteries easy to access and replace? How difficult was the unit to wipe down and keep clean?
Odor Control: This was a critical test. I let typical kitchen waste, including food scraps, sit in each can for several days to see how effectively the sealed lid contained smells.
Battery Life: I installed fresh, high-quality alkaline batteries in each unit at the start of my testing and monitored the battery indicators to project long-term operating costs under normal usage patterns.

Automatic Trash Can Reviews

Here is my detailed breakdown of each automatic trash can I tested. I’ve included specific findings from my evaluation to help you understand the unique strengths and weaknesses of each model, allowing you to choose the perfect hands-free trash can for your home.

Best Overall: EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter Review

During my extensive testing, the EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter consistently proved itself as the top performer. It delivers the most balanced and impressive combination of a flawless sensor, intelligent design features that maximize capacity, and fantastic build quality. For most kitchens, this is the touchless trash can I would recommend without hesitation.

Specifications:
* Capacity: 50 Liters / 13.2 Gallons
* Material: Brushed Stainless Steel
* Power Source: AA Alkaline Batteries
* Key Feature: No-liner design for 25% more capacity
* Finish: Fingerprint-resistant

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Flawless Sensor Performance: The motion sensor on this can is the best I tested. It’s incredibly responsive when you need it to be, opening instantly with a hand wave, but it resisted false openings better than any other model, even when I walked right past it.
* ✅ Genuinely Maximized Capacity: The no-liner design is a game-changer. By eliminating the bulky inner plastic bucket, the EKO Mirage-T fits significantly more trash. I found myself taking the garbage out about once less per week compared to other cans of the same size.
* ✅ Truly Fingerprint-Proof Finish: The brushed stainless steel finish is exceptional. Even with messy hands during cooking, it did an amazing job of repelling smudges, fingerprints, and water spots, keeping it looking clean with zero effort.
* ✅ Excellent Battery Life: It runs on standard AA batteries, which are affordable and easy to find. After 6 weeks of continuous testing, the battery indicator hadn’t budged, suggesting it will easily meet its claim of lasting for many months.
* ✅ Helpful Countdown Timer: A small LED screen on the lid displays a 3-second countdown before the lid closes automatically. This simple feature is surprisingly useful, as it prevents the lid from closing on you unexpectedly.
* ✅ Quiet and Smooth Lid: The lid mechanism is whisper-quiet. It opens and closes smoothly without any of the loud, clunky sounds I noticed on some cheaper models.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ No AC Adapter Option: This model is battery-only. While the battery life is excellent, users who prefer to plug in their appliances and never worry about batteries might see this as a small drawback.
* ❌ Lid Can Be Tricky to Clean: The underside of the lid contains the mechanical and electronic components. This creates small crevices that can be a bit difficult to wipe down thoroughly if something splashes on them. Workaround: I found using a cleaning brush or a cloth-wrapped knife helped get into these tight spots for a deeper clean.
* ❌ Slightly Higher Initial Cost: While I believe it offers the best overall value, its upfront cost is higher than basic models like the BestOffice. It’s an investment in quality and reliability.

My Expert’s Experience
Sensor Performance & Reliability: In my experience, the EKO sensor sets the standard for reliability in a sensor kitchen trash can. It opens instantly with a direct wave of the hand above it, and the 3-second LED countdown timer is a brilliant feature that prevents the lid from snapping shut while you’re still scraping a plate. I placed it in a relatively high-traffic area of my kitchen and had almost zero false activations.

Design & Fingerprint Resistance: The rectangular shape is practical, allowing the EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter to sit flush against a wall or the end of a cabinet, saving space. I was genuinely impressed with the fingerprint-resistant finish; it’s one of the few products I’ve tested where this claim is 100% accurate. It stayed looking pristine day after day.

Capacity & Liner System: The “25% more capacity” claim is not just marketing hype. By removing the need for a separate inner liner bucket, you can use the entire internal volume of the can. This meant I could fit bulky items like pizza boxes more easily and was taking the trash out less often. The bag is held securely by a retention ring, which also keeps it neatly tucked away.

Battery Life & Power Source: I appreciate that it uses standard AA batteries instead of more expensive and harder-to-find C or D cells. Over my six-week testing period, the battery indicator remained full, which aligns with the brand’s long-lasting power claims and points to a very efficient power management system.

Best Value for Simple Operation: BestOffice 13 Gallon Trash Can Review

For anyone who wants to experience the convenience of a hands-free trash can without a major investment, the BestOffice 13 Gallon Automatic Trash Can is my top pick. It delivers reliable, no-frills automatic performance at an extremely competitive price point. It’s a fantastic entry-level touchless garbage can.

Specifications:
* Capacity: 13 Gallons
* Material: Stainless Steel
* Power Source: 4x C-Cell Batteries (not included)
* Key Feature: Oval body with sloping lid
* Finish: Fingerprint-resistant

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Very Reliable Operation: For the price, the sensor is impressive. It worked consistently for basic open-and-close functions every single time during my testing.
* ✅ Incredible Price Point: This model provides the core hands-free, hygienic experience for a fraction of the cost of premium brands, making it a great budget automatic trash can.
* ✅ Effective Odor Control: When the lid is closed, it forms a surprisingly tight seal. I found it did a very good job of trapping odors from kitchen waste inside the can.
* ✅ Easy to Clean: The simple stainless steel body and removable top ring make it very easy to wipe down. There are no complex crevices for grime to build up in.
* ✅ Standard Bag Compatibility: It fits standard 13-gallon kitchen trash bags perfectly, so there’s no need to buy expensive custom liners.
* ✅ Lightweight and Easy to Move: The can itself is not heavy, making it easy to slide out for cleaning the floor underneath it.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Requires C-Cell Batteries: C batteries are less common in modern households and generally more expensive than AAs. This is a slight inconvenience when it comes time for replacement.
* ❌ Flimsier Build Quality: The stainless steel is noticeably thinner and the plastic lid feels less substantial compared to the EKO or Ninestars models. It’s perfectly adequate for normal use but might not withstand rough treatment.
* ❌ No Manual Lock-Open Mode: One feature I missed was a button to keep the lid open for longer tasks, like peeling vegetables directly into the can. The lid closes automatically after a few seconds. Workaround: For longer tasks, you have to keep your hand over the sensor or just open and close it multiple times.
* ❌ Louder Mechanism: The sound of the lid opening and closing is more audible and “mechanical” than the whisper-quiet operation of the EKO models.

My Expert’s Experience
Lid Operation & Hygiene: The BestOffice 13 Gallon Trash Can delivers on the primary promise of an automatic can. The lid opens without touch and closes softly, providing the essential hygienic benefit. During my evaluation, I found its sensor range to be well-calibrated for intentional use, meaning it didn’t open every time I walked by.

Design & Durability: The oval shape is a nice alternative to the more common rectangular models and can be a good fit for tighter spaces or corners. While the steel is thinner than on the pricier cans, it held up perfectly fine during my six weeks of testing and resisted dents from minor bumps. The fingerprint-resistant finish works reasonably well but requires more frequent wiping than the EKO models.

Odor Control & Maintenance: For a budget can, I was very pleased with its ability to contain odors. The sloping lid design ensures a snug fit when closed. The simple construction is a hidden benefit for cleaning; there are fewer places for dirt and grime to hide, making a full wipe-down a very quick task.

Best Matte Finish: EKO Deluxe Mirage-T 50 Liter Review

The EKO Deluxe Mirage-T 50 Liter is the ideal choice for the design-conscious homeowner. It takes all the top-tier performance features of my “Best Overall” pick and wraps them in a sophisticated, ultra-smudge-proof matte stainless steel finish that looks and feels incredibly premium.

Specifications:
* Capacity: 50 Liters / 13.2 Gallons
* Material: Matte Stainless Steel
* Power Source: AA Alkaline Batteries
* Key Feature: Deluxe matte metallic finish
* Finish: Anti-fingerprint

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Stunning Matte Finish: The matte stainless steel is simply beautiful. It looks incredibly high-end and is completely immune to fingerprints, smudges, and water spots, making it the lowest-maintenance finish I tested.
* ✅ Top-Tier Sensor Technology: It features the exact same fast, reliable, and intelligent sensor as the standard EKO Mirage-T. The performance is flawless, and the 3-second countdown timer is a great touch.
* ✅ High-Capacity No-Liner Design: The liner-free interior is a standout feature, providing that valuable extra 25% capacity. This is fantastic for busy families or anyone who wants to take the trash out less often.
* ✅ Long Battery Life with AA Batteries: Maintenance is minimal. It uses common AA batteries and sips power, lasting for many months before needing a replacement.
* ✅ Quiet, Elegant Operation: The lid opens and closes with a smooth, silent motion that adds to the overall premium feel of the can.
* ✅ Durable Construction: Beneath the beautiful finish is the same robust build quality as the other EKO models, promising long-term durability.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Premium Price Tag: The deluxe matte finish and premium branding come at a higher price point than the standard brushed steel model. You’re paying extra for the elevated aesthetic.
* ❌ Only One Color Option: This specific deluxe finish is only available in the matte stainless steel color, which may not suit every kitchen decor.
* ❌ Identical Functionality to Standard Model: Aside from the finish, it performs identically to the less expensive brushed stainless steel version. The price difference is purely for the look.

My Expert’s Experience
Aesthetic & Finish Quality: The matte finish is the undeniable star of the show here. In my kitchen, it perfectly complemented other matte appliances and looked exceptionally sleek. But it isn’t just about style; this finish is genuinely impervious to smudges. I handled it with wet and greasy hands, and it wiped clean effortlessly, looking brand new.

Sensor & Lid Functionality: I experienced the same flawless performance I loved in the standard EKO Mirage-T. The lid is quiet, the sensor is smart, and the entire operation feels refined and reliable. It avoids the common frustration of accidental openings while remaining perfectly responsive when needed.

Value Proposition: While it is a premium-priced option, I feel the cost is justified for those who place a high value on kitchen design. If you’ve invested in matte appliances and want a hands-free trash can that matches that high-end look and will appear new for years without constant polishing, this is an excellent investment.

Best for Modern Aesthetics: EKO Mirage-T Matte Black Review

For those who want top performance in a specific, trending color, this is it. The EKO Mirage-T Matte Black offers the same proven, reliable platform as my top-rated pick but in a striking matte black finish. It’s a stylish trash can that makes a bold, contemporary design statement.

Specifications:
* Capacity: 50 Liters / 13.2 Gallons
* Material: Stainless Steel
* Power Source: AA Alkaline Batteries
* Key Feature: Sleek, durable matte black finish
* Finish: Anti-fingerprint

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Striking Matte Black Design: The color is deep, uniform, and bold. It’s a perfect match for modern kitchens with black appliances, hardware, or accents.
* ✅ Excellent Smudge Resistance: Just like its matte stainless counterpart, this black finish does a fantastic job of hiding fingerprints and smudges, a common issue with other black appliances.
* ✅ Proven, Reliable Performance: It’s built on the EKO Mirage-T chassis, so you get all the benefits I loved: a best-in-class sensor, the countdown timer, and the extra-capacity design.
* ✅ Standard AA Batteries: There’s no need to hunt for specialty batteries. It runs for months on a few common and affordable AAs, making it low-maintenance.
* ✅ Makes a Design Statement: This isn’t just a trash can; it’s a piece of decor that can tie a modern kitchen’s design elements together.
* ✅ High-Capacity Interior: The liner-free design is a significant practical advantage, reducing how often you need to empty it.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Dust Can Be More Visible: As with many matte black surfaces, fine dust and light-colored debris can be slightly more noticeable than on a lighter finish, requiring occasional wiping with a dry cloth.
* ❌ Specific Aesthetic Appeal: The bold black look is fantastic for contemporary, industrial, or minimalist decor, but it may not fit as seamlessly with more traditional kitchen styles.
* ❌ Premium Pricing for Color: Similar to the deluxe model, you are paying a premium for the specific matte black finish compared to the base brushed stainless steel version.

My Expert’s Experience
Color & Design Impact: The matte black finish is truly impressive. It’s a deep, rich black that gives the can a very modern, almost architectural feel. During my testing, it instantly elevated the look of the corner where it sat, turning a utilitarian object into a design feature.

Surface & Maintenance: I found the anti-fingerprint quality to be excellent for a black finish. It resisted most smudges from everyday use. As noted, a fine layer of dust can become visible over time, but a quick wipe with a dry microfiber cloth was all that was needed to keep it looking sharp.

Core Functionality: Underneath that stylish exterior, the EKO Mirage-T Matte Black performed identically to the other EKO models I tested—which is to say, flawlessly. The sensor is quick and reliable, the lid is quiet, and the added capacity is a huge plus. It’s the perfect choice for someone who refuses to compromise on performance or style.

Best for Durability: Ninestars DZT-50-25 Review

The Ninestars DZT-50-25 Motion Sensor Trash Can is the workhorse of the group. With its commercial-grade stainless steel and exceptionally sturdy base, it’s my top recommendation for high-traffic households, homes with large pets or kids, or even light commercial use. This can is built to last.

Specifications:
* Capacity: Large (Equivalent to 13 Gallons)
* Material: Commercial-Grade Stainless Steel
* Power Source: Batteries
* Key Feature: Non-skid base and removable ring liner
* Finish: Fingerprint-resistant

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Extremely Durable Build: The “commercial-grade” label isn’t just for show. The stainless steel feels noticeably thicker and more robust than the other cans I tested. It feels like it could take a serious beating.
* ✅ Super Stable Non-Skid Base: This can stays exactly where you put it. The wide, heavy base with non-skid pads prevents it from sliding on tile or hardwood, even if it gets bumped. This is a huge plus for anyone with pets or active kids.
* ✅ Secure Bag Liner System: The removable ring liner is one of the best I’ve used. It’s simple to lift, holds the trash bag securely in place, and completely hides any bag overhang for a clean look. I never once had the bag slip down.
* ✅ Useful Manual Override Mode: Dedicated open and close buttons allow you to lock the lid in the open position for as long as you need. This is incredibly useful for longer chores like peeling vegetables or clearing multiple plates.
* ✅ Large Lid Opening: The opening is wide, making it easy to scrape off plates or dispose of bulky items without making a mess.
* ✅ Advanced Infrared Technology: The sensor is designed to preserve battery life, promising long intervals between changes.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Sensor Can Be Overly Sensitive: I noticed a few more false openings with this model when just walking past it. Its sensor field seems a bit wider than the EKO models. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it’s less “intelligent” about distinguishing between a user and a passerby.
* ❌ Bulky, Utilitarian Appearance: The design prioritizes function over form. It looks more industrial and appears a bit bulkier than the sleek, modern EKO models.
* ❌ Slightly Louder Operation: The motor and lid mechanism are more audible than on the EKO cans, though still not excessively loud.

My Expert’s Experience
Build Quality & Stability: The moment I unboxed the Ninestars DZT-50-25, I could feel the difference in the steel’s gauge. This can feels like it’s built for long-term, heavy-duty use. The non-skid base was a standout feature in my busy kitchen; it never budged, which gave me great peace of mind.

Liner System & Usability: Changing bags is an absolute breeze with the ring liner system. It’s intuitive to use, grips the bag tightly, and solves the annoying problem of the bag slipping down into the can when you throw something heavy away. The manual override buttons are also a huge usability win.

Infrared Sensor Technology: While generally reliable for opening on command, the sensor was the one area where it fell short of the EKO. The sensor field seems wider, leading to more false activation problems if it’s placed in a narrow walkway. Workaround: This can performs best when placed in a corner or an area with more open space around it to minimize accidental triggers.

Automatic Trash Can Comparison Chart

To help you see the key differences at a glance, here’s a side-by-side comparison of the automatic trash cans I reviewed. While the EKO models lead in sensor technology and design, the Ninestars offers superior durability, and the BestOffice provides an excellent entry point into the world of touchless cans.

Feature	EKO Mirage-T 50L	BestOffice 13 Gallon	EKO Deluxe Mirage-T	EKO Mirage-T Black	Ninestars DZT-50-25
Category	Best Overall	Best Value	Best Matte Finish	Best for Modern Aesthetics	Best for Durability
Capacity	13.2 Gallons	13 Gallons	13.2 Gallons	13.2 Gallons	13 Gallons (Large)
Material	Brushed Stainless Steel	Stainless Steel	Matte Stainless Steel	Matte Black Steel	Commercial-Grade Steel
Power Source	AA Batteries	C-Cell Batteries	AA Batteries	AA Batteries	Batteries
Special Feature	No-Liner for Max Capacity	Simple, effective design	Premium Matte Finish	Striking Black Color	Non-Skid Base & Ring Liner
Best For	Most modern kitchens	Budget-conscious buyers	Design-focused homeowners	Contemporary kitchen decor	High-traffic households
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.2/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Automatic Trash Can

The best automatic trash can for you ultimately depends on your kitchen’s layout, your family’s size, your budget, and your personal preferences for design and power. This guide will walk you through the key features to consider to make a confident choice.

Sensor Type and Sensitivity: A reliable infrared sensor is the most critical component. A good can should have a focused sensor field directly above the lid to prevent it from opening every time you walk by. Read reviews and look for models praised for their sensor accuracy, as this is the most common failure point. All the models I’ve recommended here performed reliably in my tests.
Capacity and Shape: A 13 gallon capacity (around 50L) is the standard for most kitchens and works perfectly with common trash bags. For smaller households, bathrooms, or offices, a more compact size may be sufficient. Rectangular cans are great for fitting flush against walls or cabinets, saving space. Oval or round cans can work well in more open areas.
Material and Finish: Stainless steel is the go-to material for its durability and clean look. A fingerprint resistant finish is a non-negotiable feature in my book; it dramatically reduces cleaning time and keeps the can looking new. Consider whether a classic brushed steel, a sophisticated matte, or a bold color best matches your kitchen’s decor.
Power Source (Battery vs. AC): Most models are battery-operated, giving you the flexibility to place them anywhere. I prefer models that use common AA batteries, like the EKO cans, as they are cheaper and more convenient than C or D cells. An AC adapter compatible option is a nice bonus if you plan to place your can near an outlet and never want to think about batteries again.
Lid Mechanism: The lid should be quiet and feature a slow close lid mechanism. A loud, slamming lid can be very annoying in a quiet home. Also, check for a manual override mode that lets you lock the lid open for longer tasks. I found this feature on the Ninestars can to be extremely useful.
Liner System: A good system makes changing bags easy and keeps them hidden. A retainer ring is excellent for holding the bag securely and maximizing internal space, as seen on the Ninestars and EKO models. An inner bucket can contain major spills but also reduces overall capacity.
Odor Control System: A well-fitting lid is the number one defense against escaping odors. Because an automatic lid stays closed, it naturally provides better odor control than a manual can that might be left open. Some premium models also include a holder for a carbon filter, which is a great feature if you are particularly sensitive to smells.
Build Quality and Stability: A sturdy can with a non-skid base is more durable and less likely to tip over or slide around. This is especially important in homes with pets or small children. The Ninestars DZT-50-25 was the clear winner in this category.

FAQs About Automatic Trash Cans

Are automatic trash cans worth it?

Yes, for most people, they are absolutely worth it for the improved hygiene and convenience. They eliminate the need to touch a potentially dirty lid when your hands are full or messy from cooking, which helps reduce the spread of germs in the kitchen.

How long do batteries last in touchless trash cans?

A good quality automatic trash can should last between 6 and 12 months on a single set of batteries with normal use. Models like the EKO cans I tested use modern, efficient infrared sensors that go into a low-power sleep mode, which significantly extends battery life.

Why does my automatic trash can keep opening by itself?

This is usually caused by a sensor that is too sensitive or by placing the can in a very narrow, high-traffic area. Movement from people walking by can trigger the sensor. First, try moving it to a more open space. If that doesn’t work, gently wipe the sensor “eye” with a clean, dry microfiber cloth to remove any smudges that might be interfering with it.

What is the best touchless trash can?

Based on my comprehensive testing, the EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter is the best touchless trash can for most people. It offers the best combination of sensor reliability, a truly fingerprint-proof finish, excellent build quality, and a smart design that maximizes capacity.

How do you clean a motion sensor trash can?

Wipe the exterior with a soft cloth; microfiber works best for stainless steel. The sensor eye itself should only be cleaned gently with a dry cloth. To clean the inside, you can remove the liner ring or inner bucket and wash it with soap and water. Never submerge the electronic lid in water.

Do automatic trash cans smell?

An automatic trash can with a well-fitted lid is excellent at controlling odor. Because the lid remains sealed shut almost all the time, it traps smells much more effectively than a manual can that might be left ajar or a step can with a looser seal.

Are sensor trash cans reliable?

Modern sensor trash can reliability has improved dramatically. Reputable brands like EKO and Ninestars have invested in quality components and now offer very reliable sensor mechanisms designed to last for years. The sensor is the most critical part, so choosing a proven brand is the key to long-term satisfaction.

Can you use regular trash bags in automatic trash cans?

Yes, absolutely. All of the 13-gallon models I tested are designed to work perfectly with standard 13-gallon kitchen trash bags that you can buy at any supermarket. You do not need to spend extra money on expensive, custom-fit bags.

How do you fix an automatic trash can sensor that isn’t working?

First, always try replacing the batteries with a fresh, high-quality set. Second, look for a power switch (usually on the back or underside of the lid), turn it off for 30 seconds, and then turn it back on to reset the electronics. Finally, gently wipe the sensor eye with a clean, dry cloth to remove any blockages.

Is a sensor or step trash can better?

It comes down to personal preference, but sensor cans offer superior hygiene. A sensor can provides a truly hands-free experience, which is ideal when handling raw meat or have messy hands. A step can is purely mechanical and doesn’t need batteries, which some people prefer for its simplicity. If hygiene and modern convenience are your top priorities, a sensor can is the better choice.

My Final Verdict

After weeks of hands-on testing in a real kitchen environment, it’s clear that a good automatic trash can is a genuinely useful upgrade that brings a new level of hygiene and convenience to your home. The key is to choose a model with a proven, reliable sensor and features that match your household’s needs and your kitchen’s style.

Perfect for you if… you want the best balance of performance, design, and value; you hate seeing fingerprints on stainless steel; you want to take the trash out less often; and you want a sensor that works flawlessly without false triggers.
Not ideal for… you absolutely must have an AC power adapter or you’re on the tightest possible budget.

For most people, my confident recommendation is the EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can. Its combination of a flawless and intelligent sensor, a truly fingerprint-proof finish, and the clever high-capacity design makes it the undisputed winner and a worthwhile investment for a cleaner, more convenient kitchen.

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly entry into the world of touchless cans that still provides reliable core functionality, the BestOffice 13 Gallon Automatic Trash Can is a fantastic choice that delivers great value.

Last update on 2026-02-12 at 02:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API