5 Best Kitchen Trash Cans: Expert Tested in 2026

Finding the best kitchen trash can might seem simple, but the right choice can genuinely make your kitchen cleaner, more hygienic, and less smelly. A bad one, however, becomes a daily source of frustration.

The challenge is navigating the endless options. You need a kitchen garbage can with excellent odor control, a durable foot pedal or a reliable motion sensor, and a design that doesn’t become an eyesore covered in fingerprints after two days. It’s tough to know which features are just marketing hype and which ones actually matter.

After testing five of the most popular models for a full 45 days, here’s the truth: the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can is the best all-around choice for most kitchens, offering a durable build and high-end features like a soft-close lid at an incredible value.

My evaluation over the past six weeks involved filling bags, testing lid seals with potent food scraps, and performing hundreds of open/close cycles on each mechanism. I discovered that a simple, well-sealed lid often outperforms cans with complex, filter-based systems for everyday use.

This guide breaks down everything I learned. Here is my detailed analysis of the top options to help you choose the perfect kitchen waste bin for your home.

Top 5 Best Kitchen Trash Cans

After analyzing over 15 popular models, I narrowed the list down to the top 5. I focused my hands-on testing on the most critical performance factors for a kitchen environment: durability, real-world odor control, and overall ease of use. Each of these cans excels in a specific area, ensuring there’s a perfect match for every type of household.

1. Best Overall: Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can – The perfect balance of features, durability, and value for most homes.
2. Best Touchless: EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter Motion Sensor Trash Can – Offers a superior, hygienic hands-free experience with a flawless sensor.
3. Best for Odor Control: SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter Soft-Close Trash Can – Actively fights smells with a built-in carbon filter system.
4. Best for Odor-Fighting Power: Glad Premium 13 Gallon Trash Can – A lightweight plastic option with powerful, built-in Clorox odor protection.
5. Best Touchless for Standard Bags: BestOffice 13 Gallon Automatic Touchless Garbage Can – A compact touchless can perfectly sized for standard 13-gallon kitchen bags.

How I Picked and Tested

To find the best kitchen garbage can, I went beyond just reading product descriptions. My selection process combined hands-on evaluation over 45 days with a deep analysis of long-term user reviews to identify what truly matters in a kitchen setting. My goal was to simulate real-world family use to see how each can held up.

Here are the key criteria I used to rate and rank each kitchen waste bin:

1. Odor Control: This was my top priority. I tested how effectively each lid sealed in smells from common pungent food waste like onion peels and coffee grounds. I also evaluated the performance of special features like the built-in filter on the SIMPLI-MAGIC and the Clorox odor protection on the Glad can.
2. Durability & Materials: I assessed the sturdiness of the can body, focusing on the gauge of the stainless steel and its resistance to dents and smudges. I also rigorously tested the build quality of the foot pedal or motion sensor mechanism, as this is the most common point of failure.
3. Ease of Use: This covered the entire experience, from setup to daily operation. I considered how simple it was to change the bag, the convenience of the hands-free operation, and how easy the interior and exterior were to wipe clean. The presence of a removable inner bucket was a huge plus here.
4. Lid Operation: I evaluated the lid mechanism on its own merits. For soft-close lids, I looked for a smooth, silent, and consistent closing action. For motion sensors, I tested responsiveness, range, and whether they were prone to accidental openings.
5. Design & Capacity: I assessed how well the can’s footprint fit into a standard kitchen layout. I also checked if the stated capacity (e.g., 13 gallon or 50 liter) matched real-world use with standard-sized trash bags without tearing or excessive overhang.

I started with a list of 15 popular and highly-rated models and selected these final 5 because they consistently excelled across all of these critical benchmarks.

5 Kitchen Garbage Can Reviews

Here’s my in-depth breakdown of each of the top five kitchen trash cans. I lived with each of these for over a week, using them as my primary kitchen bin to understand their true strengths and weaknesses.

Best Overall: Amazon Basics 50L Trash Can Review

The Amazon Basics 50L Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can earns my top spot as the best overall choice because it perfectly balances essential features, quality construction, and an accessible price point. It’s the ideal kitchen trash can for most households, delivering a premium user experience without the premium cost. It feels solid, looks great, and just works exactly as you’d hope.

During my testing, I found its combination of a large capacity, a reliable foot pedal, and a genuinely quiet soft-close lid made it a joy to use. This is the can I would recommend to friends and family without hesitation.

Specifications:
* Capacity: 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon
* Lid Mechanism: Manual Foot Pedal with Soft-Close
* Material: Brushed Stainless Steel (Smudge-Resistant)
* Interior: Removable Heavy-Duty Plastic Bucket
* Dimensions: 16.7″ W x 14.7″ D x 25.9″ H
* Special Feature: Stay-Open Lid

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Flawless Soft-Close Lid: The lid closes in complete silence every single time. It’s a small luxury that makes a big difference, preventing any loud slamming noises that can startle you or wake up a sleeping baby.
* ✅ Sturdy and Responsive Foot Pedal: The steel foot pedal feels incredibly durable underfoot. It’s wide enough to be easily accessible and responds with just the right amount of pressure, offering reliable hands-free access.
* ✅ Removable Inner Bucket is a Game-Changer: This is a huge win for cleanliness. The heavy-duty plastic inner bucket lifts out easily, making it simple to carry the trash out. More importantly, if a bag leaks, the mess is contained in the bucket, not the can itself.
* ✅ Truly Smudge-Resistant Finish: The brushed stainless steel finish lives up to its name. Even with messy hands in the kitchen, it resisted fingerprints and smudges remarkably well, keeping the can looking clean with minimal effort.
* ✅ Convenient Stay-Open Lid: A simple flick of a switch on the back locks the lid in the open position. This was surprisingly useful for longer tasks like peeling vegetables or cleaning out the fridge.
* ✅ Generous Family-Sized Capacity: The 50L (13.2 Gallon) capacity is perfect for a family, holding several days’ worth of trash. This meant I was taking the garbage out less frequently.
* ✅ Excellent Value for Money: This can delivers features—like the soft-close lid and removable liner—that are often found on models costing twice as much. It’s a fantastic investment.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ A Bit Bulky for Small Kitchens: While the rectangular shape is efficient, the 50L capacity gives it a significant footprint. In a very compact kitchen or apartment, it might feel a bit oversized.
* ❌ No Dedicated Odor Filter: The lid seals tightly, which does a great job of containing everyday odors. However, it lacks a dedicated carbon filter compartment for neutralizing particularly strong smells over time. Workaround: A simple stick-on deodorizer or a sprinkle of baking soda in the bottom of the can easily solves this.
* ❌ Inner Bucket Reduces Some Capacity: While the removable bucket is a huge pro for cleaning, it does mean the internal capacity is slightly less than a no-liner can of the same external dimensions. This is a standard trade-off I feel is well worth it.

Expert’s Experience
* Build Quality & Design: My first impression was how solid the Amazon Basics 50L Trash Can felt. The stainless steel body isn’t flimsy and has a satisfying weight to it. The smudge-resistant satin nickel finish is a major plus, as I found I only needed to wipe it down once during a week of heavy use.
* Lid Operation & Seal: I performed over 100 pedal presses during my focused testing period, and the soft-close mechanism remained perfectly smooth and silent. The lid closes gently and forms a firm seal around the rim, which I found was highly effective at trapping kitchen odors from leftover food.
* Bag Changing & Maintenance: The removable inner bucket is the standout feature for practicality. Changing the bag was effortless. The liner has a handle, so you just lift it out. I simulated a “leak” with some water, and cleanup was as simple as rinsing the bucket in the sink. This feature alone protects your investment and prevents the can itself from ever getting grimy.

Best Touchless: EKO Mirage-T 50L Sensor Can Review

For the ultimate hygienic kitchen experience, the EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter Motion Sensor Trash Can is my top touchless pick. It brings a bit of high-tech magic to a mundane task, completely eliminating the need to touch the can. This is the perfect upgrade for serious home cooks, families with small children, or anyone who prioritizes a germ-free environment.

The motion sensor is exceptionally well-engineered—it’s fast, reliable, and “just works.” The sleek design and impressive capacity make it a fantastic modern addition to any kitchen.

Specifications:
* Capacity: 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon
* Lid Mechanism: Touchless Motion Sensor (Battery Powered)
* Material: Brushed Stainless Steel (Anti-Fingerprint)
* Interior: No-Liner Design (Maximizes Capacity)
* Power: AA Alkaline Batteries
* Special Feature: 25% More Capacity due to No-Liner Design

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Flawless and Fast Motion Sensor: The sensor is the star of the show. It opens the lid instantly with a simple wave of the hand. I found it to be incredibly responsive and reliable, without the frustrating delays I’ve seen on cheaper models.
* ✅ Completely Hygienic Operation: This is the biggest benefit. When you’re handling raw meat or have hands covered in dough, not having to touch the trash can is a game-changer for preventing cross-contamination.
* ✅ Maximum Interior Capacity: The no-liner design means the trash bag uses the entire interior volume of the can. EKO claims 25% more capacity, and while I couldn’t measure that exactly, it definitely felt like it held more than liner-equipped cans of the same size.
* ✅ Superior Fingerprint Resistance: The anti-fingerprint finish on this can is top-notch. It genuinely repels smudges and water spots, keeping the stainless steel looking pristine with almost no effort.
* ✅ Sleek, Modern Aesthetic: With its clean lines and brushed steel finish, this kitchen waste bin looks like a premium appliance. It adds a touch of modern sophistication to the kitchen.
* ✅ Impressive Battery Life: The manufacturer claims up to 8 months of use on a set of AA batteries. While I couldn’t test it for that long, it’s a testament to the efficient motor design, minimizing ongoing maintenance.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Requires Batteries: As an electronic device, it relies on AA batteries. This is an ongoing cost and means you need to have replacements on hand for when they eventually run out.
* ❌ Potential for Accidental Opening: The sensor is quite sensitive, which is mostly a good thing. However, I did notice it would sometimes open if I just walked by too closely or if my dog got curious. Workaround: I found placing it slightly out of the main kitchen walkway minimized these accidental triggers.
* ❌ No Inner Liner for Leaks: The linerless design maximizes space but comes with a risk. If a trash bag leaks, the mess goes directly into the can, requiring a more involved cleanup. You have to be diligent about using quality, leak-proof bags.

Expert’s Experience
* Sensor Performance & Reliability: I was deeply impressed by the sensor on the EKO Mirage-T. It has a generous detection zone, so you don’t have to wave your hand right on top of it. The lid opens quickly and then closes automatically after a few seconds. There are also open/close buttons for manual operation if needed.
* Design & Build: The can feels well-constructed and stable, despite being lighter due to the lack of an inner bucket. The “no-liner” design is clever; a ring holds the trash bag securely in place and hides any overhang, maintaining a clean look.
* Practicality & Hygiene: The touchless feature is more than a gimmick; it’s a genuine functional improvement. During a messy cooking session, I could scrape scraps off a cutting board directly into the bin without touching anything. It keeps the lid, and your hands, significantly cleaner. For anyone concerned about germs, this is the way to go.

Best for Odor Control: SIMPLI-MAGIC 50L Filter Can Review

If your number one priority is stopping kitchen trash smells in their tracks, the SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter Soft-Close Trash Can is the clear winner. While most cans rely solely on a sealed lid, this model adds a second line of defense: a built-in carbon odor filter.

This, combined with a quiet soft-close lid and a smart, space-saving design, makes it the top solution for households that generate a lot of food waste or are particularly sensitive to kitchen smells.

Specifications:
* Capacity: 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon
* Lid Mechanism: Metal Foot Pedal with Quiet-Close
* Material: Stainless Steel (Smudge Resistant)
* Interior: Removable Plastic Liner
* Special Feature: Built-in Odor Filter
* Design: Space-Saving with Interior Hinge

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Effective Built-in Odor Filter: The integrated carbon filter in the lid makes a noticeable difference. I tested it with onion peels and fish scraps, and it did a superior job of neutralizing strong odors compared to non-filter models.
* ✅ Excellent Space-Saving Design: The flat back and internal hinge are brilliant. This allows the can to sit completely flush against a wall or cabinet, saving precious floor space and preventing the lid from scuffing your walls.
* ✅ Silent and Gentle Lid: The quiet-close mechanism is smooth and works perfectly, preventing any jarring “bangs” when the lid closes. It adds to a calm and quiet kitchen environment.
* ✅ Helpful Stay-Open Lock: A simple lock keeps the lid open when needed. This was very convenient for longer chores like cleaning out the pantry or changing the bag without having to hold the pedal down.
* ✅ Durable Metal Foot Pedal: The foot pedal is made of metal and feels sturdy and responsive, promising long-term durability for hands-free use.
* ✅ Smudge-Resistant Finish: The stainless steel finish does a good job of resisting fingerprints, which is essential for maintaining a clean look in a busy kitchen.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Filter Replacements are an Extra Cost: To maintain peak performance, the carbon odor filter needs to be replaced every 2-3 months. This is a small but recurring extra cost and maintenance step to remember.
* ❌ Foot Pedal Feels Slightly Less Robust: While the pedal is metal and perfectly functional, during my side-by-side comparison, it felt slightly less substantial than the pedal on the Amazon Basics model. It’s a minor difference but one I noticed.
* ❌ Filter Compartment is a Bit Fiddly: Swapping out the filter is easy enough, but the small plastic compartment door felt a bit delicate. It requires a gentle touch to open and close.

Expert’s Experience
* Odor Control Effectiveness: This is where the SIMPLI-MAGIC truly shines. The combination of a tight-fitting lid and the active carbon filter is highly effective. The air around the can remained noticeably fresher, even when I knew there was smelly garbage inside. For those with open-plan living spaces, this feature is a must-have.
* Design & Footprint: I love the thoughtfulness of the design. The ability to place it flush against the wall is a huge advantage. In my kitchen, this saved a few crucial inches of walkway space. The internal hinge means you never have to worry about the lid hitting and scratching your wall or cabinetry.
* Functionality & Use: The stay-open lid lock is one of those simple features you don’t know you need until you have it. It made scraping multiple cutting boards or changing a full, heavy bag so much less awkward. The removable plastic liner also made for easy cleaning and bag changes.

Best for Odor-Fighting Power: Glad Premium 13 Gallon Can Review

For those who prefer a lightweight, dent-proof can but still demand serious odor control, the Glad Premium 13 Gallon Trash Can is an outstanding choice. It breaks the mold by combining a durable plastic body with two premium features: a sturdy stainless steel foot pedal and Clorox odor protection built right into the lid.

This isn’t your average plastic can. It’s a powerful, budget-friendly alternative to stainless steel that actively fights odors and includes one of the best bag-securing systems I’ve ever tested.

Specifications:
* Capacity: 13 Gallon / 50 Liter
* Lid Mechanism: Stainless Steel Foot Pedal
* Material: Plastic Body (Black Matte Finish)
* Special Feature: Clorox Odor Protection of the Lid
* Interior: Interior Bag Rings to Secure Bag
* Dimensions: 18″ W x 14.7″ D x 25″ H

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Powerful Clorox Odor Protection: The lid is formulated with Clorox to inhibit the growth of odor-causing bacteria. I found this provided an excellent extra layer of freshness and odor control for the life of the can.
* ✅ Brilliant Bag Ring System: The internal rings are fantastic. They grip the trash bag tightly, preventing it from ever slipping down into the can. It also perfectly hides any messy bag overhang for a clean, tidy look.
* ✅ Lightweight and Dent-Proof: The plastic body is a major practical advantage. It’s immune to the dents and dings that can plague stainless steel cans, and it’s much lighter and easier to move for cleaning under or behind it.
* ✅ Upgraded Stainless Steel Pedal: Despite the plastic body, Glad wisely used a solid stainless steel foot pedal. It feels surprisingly robust and durable, providing a confident, hands-free operation.
* ✅ Easy to Keep Clean: The matte black plastic finish is very forgiving. It doesn’t show smudges or water spots and can be quickly wiped clean with a damp cloth.
* ✅ Great Value: This can delivers advanced odor control and a durable pedal system in a more accessible and practical package, offering excellent performance for the price.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Doesn’t Look as Premium as Steel: While the matte black finish is sleek, a plastic can will never have the same high-end, appliance-like look as a brushed stainless steel model.
* ❌ No Soft-Close Lid: The lid does its job, but it lacks a soft-close mechanism. If you let your foot off the pedal quickly, the lid will close with a noticeable “thump.” Workaround: Simply guiding the pedal back up with your foot results in a quieter close.
* ❌ Lid Can Attract Dust: I noticed the flat top of the black plastic lid tended to show dust more readily than the brushed steel finishes on other models.

Expert’s Experience
* Odor Management System: The one-two punch of the Clorox-treated lid and the tight-fitting bag rings is very effective. The bag rings prevent any gaps where odors might escape. There’s no “garbage” smell around the can, just a very faint, clean scent from the treatment itself.
* Build & Practicality: I really came to appreciate the practicality of the plastic body. It’s worry-free; you don’t have to be precious about bumping into it. The star feature, for me, is the bag ring system. I’ve fought with slipping bags on so many other cans, and this design completely solves that problem. It’s the best I’ve tested.
* Value Proposition: The Glad Premium Can is a smart buy. It focuses on the things that matter most—odor control and a reliable opening mechanism—and packages them in a durable, low-maintenance material. It’s a workhorse.

Best Touchless for Standard Bags: BestOffice 13 Gallon Touchless Can Review

If you love the idea of a touchless trash can but don’t have the space or need for a massive 50L model, the BestOffice 13 Gallon Automatic Touchless Garbage Can is the perfect solution. It’s specifically designed to work perfectly with the most common trash bag size in the US: the standard 13-gallon kitchen bag.

This can brings the hygiene and convenience of motion-sensor technology to a more compact, practical form factor. Its modern oval shape and stainless steel finish make it a stylish and functional fit for smaller families, couples, or apartments.

Specifications:
* Capacity: 13 Gallon
* Lid Mechanism: Automatic Touchless Sensor (Battery Powered)
* Material: Stainless Steel (Fingerprint-Resistant)
* Shape: Modern Oval Design
* Power: 4 C-Cell Batteries
* Special Feature: Fits Standard 13-Gallon Bags Perfectly

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Perfect Fit for Standard 13-Gallon Bags: This is a huge convenience. Standard 13-gallon bags fit perfectly without any difficult stretching or wasted space, making bag changes quick and easy.
* ✅ Hygienic Touchless Operation: The automatic sensor provides the same clean, hands-free benefits as larger models, but in a more kitchen-friendly size. It’s great for keeping germs at bay.
* ✅ Sleek, Space-Efficient Oval Shape: The modern oval design is not just for looks. I found it fits well in corners or narrower spaces where a bulkier rectangular can might not work.
* ✅ Effective Odor Containment: The lid closes securely after each use, forming a good seal that effectively traps everyday kitchen odors inside the can.
* ✅ Fingerprint-Resistant Finish: The stainless steel body does a good job of resisting smudges, keeping it looking sharp with minimal wiping.
* ✅ Reliable Sensor: The motion sensor worked consistently during my testing, opening promptly with a wave of the hand.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Requires Larger C-Cell Batteries: This model uses four C-cell batteries, which are less common and more expensive than the AAs used in other models. This is an inconvenience to keep in mind.
* ❌ No Removable Inner Liner: Like the EKO model, this can lacks a removable bucket. This means you must be extra careful with leaky bags to avoid having to clean the entire interior of the can.
* ❌ Sensor Range is a Bit Shorter: Compared to the EKO sensor, I found I had to get my hand a little closer to the lid to trigger the sensor on the BestOffice can. It’s a minor difference but noticeable in side-by-side use.

Expert’s Experience
* Sensor and Size Synergy: The pairing of a reliable touchless sensor with the popular 13-gallon size is very smart. It brings a premium, modern feature to the most common can capacity, which is a great combination for smaller households that still want the latest tech.
* Design and Placement: The oval shape is surprisingly practical. I was able to tuck it into a corner of my kitchen where a rectangular can would have stuck out awkwardly. The stainless steel finish is attractive and easy to wipe down, blending in well with other appliances.
* Bag Fit and Usability: It’s a genuine relief to use a can where standard kitchen bags just fit perfectly. There’s no struggle, no tearing, and no excessive overhang. This simple design choice makes a significant positive impact on the day-to-day experience of using the can.

Kitchen Trash Can Comparison Chart

Seeing the key features side-by-side can make the decision much clearer. Here’s how my top 5 picks stack up on the most important metrics.

Feature	Amazon Basics 50L	EKO Mirage-T 50L	SIMPLI-MAGIC 50L	Glad Premium 13G	BestOffice 13G
Category	Best Overall	Best Touchless	Best for Odor Control	Best for Odor-Fighting	Best Touchless for Standard Bags
Capacity	50 Liters / 13.2 Gal	50 Liters / 13.2 Gal	50 Liters / 13.2 Gal	13 Gallon	13 Gallon
Lid Mechanism	Foot Pedal	Motion Sensor	Foot Pedal	Foot Pedal	Motion Sensor
Material	Stainless Steel	Stainless Steel	Stainless Steel	Plastic	Stainless Steel
Odor Control	Sealed Lid	Sealed Lid	Built-in Filter	Clorox Protection	Sealed Lid
My Rating	4.8/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐

The main trade-off you’ll notice is the lid mechanism. The convenience of a motion sensor on the EKO Mirage-T and BestOffice cans is fantastic for hygiene, but it comes with the need for batteries. In contrast, the simple reliability of a foot pedal on the Amazon Basics, SIMPLI-MAGIC, and Glad models is foolproof and requires no power.

Capacity is the other major differentiator. The larger 50L cans are ideal for families of four or more, reducing how often you need to take out the trash. The 13-gallon models are perfect for smaller households, couples, or kitchens with limited floor space.

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

The “best” kitchen garbage can is the one that best fits your kitchen, your family’s needs, and your personal preferences. Use this guide to match the right features to your specific situation.

• Capacity: 13 Gallon vs. 50 Liter
  A standard 13-gallon (about 49 liters) can is the most popular size for a reason. It’s perfect for couples or small families of 2-4 people and is designed to fit the most common trash bag size perfectly. Go for a larger 50L+ model if you have a big family, do a lot of cooking, or simply want to take the trash out less often.

• Lid Mechanism: Pedal vs. Sensor vs. Manual
  A foot pedal is the classic choice, offering reliable, hands-free operation with no need for power. A motion sensor provides the ultimate hygienic experience, as you never have to touch the can, but it requires batteries. A simple manual lid is the most budget-friendly but the least convenient for a busy kitchen. I strongly recommend a hands-free option.

• Material: Stainless Steel vs. Plastic
  Stainless steel offers a premium, modern look that matches most kitchen appliances. Look for a “fingerprint-resistant” or “smudge-proof” finish to make maintenance easier. High-quality plastic is an excellent practical choice—it’s lightweight, completely dent-proof, rust-proof, and often easier to clean.

• Odor Control Features
  A tight-sealing lid is your first and most important line of defense. For extra power, look for models with a built-in carbon filter (like the SIMPLI-MAGIC) which actively absorbs odors but needs replacing. Another option is a can with antimicrobial properties (like the Glad Premium) that inhibit bacteria growth on the lid.

• Shape & Footprint: Rectangular vs. Oval/Round
  Before you buy, measure the space where you plan to put the can. Rectangular cans are very space-efficient and often sit flush against a wall. Oval or slim cans can be great for tucking into tight corners or narrow spaces between cabinets.

• Inner Liner: Removable Bucket vs. No Liner
  I am a huge proponent of a removable inner bucket. It makes cleaning up inevitable leaks and spills incredibly easy and protects the main body of the can from getting grimy. Cans without a liner offer slightly more interior capacity but require more care to prevent bag tears and direct messes.

FAQs About Kitchen Trash Cans

What size trash can is best for a kitchen?

For most households of 2-4 people, a 13-gallon (or 50-liter) trash can is the perfect size. This capacity is large enough to hold several days’ worth of kitchen waste without being overly bulky. Crucially, it’s also compatible with the most common and easily available size of trash bags. Larger families may want to consider a 20-gallon can if they have the space.

How do I stop my kitchen trash can from smelling?

Start by choosing a can with a tight-sealing lid and, if possible, one with an active odor-control feature like a carbon filter. Beyond that, there are several good habits. I always recommend sprinkling a tablespoon of baking soda in the bottom of the can before putting in a new bag. Also, try to avoid putting loose, wet garbage directly into the can and take out trash containing very pungent food (like fish or seafood) sooner rather than later.

Are motion sensor trash cans worth it?

Yes, they are absolutely worth it if hygiene is a top priority for you. They allow for completely hands-free operation, which is fantastic for preventing the spread of germs when you’re handling raw food. The convenience is a real luxury. However, they do require batteries and can be more expensive, so if you prefer foolproof simplicity, a high-quality foot pedal model is a more reliable and cost-effective choice.

How do you clean a stainless steel trash can?

The best way is to use a soft microfiber cloth with a small amount of pH-neutral cleaner or a dedicated stainless steel spray. Always wipe in the direction of the metal’s grain to avoid creating tiny scratches. For everyday smudges and fingerprints, I find that a microfiber cloth slightly dampened with warm water is often all you need.

What is the most durable material for a trash can?

For the can body, both high-grade stainless steel and high-density plastic are very durable, but in different ways. Stainless steel is stronger and resists cracking, but it can dent upon sharp impact. Plastic is completely dent-proof and rust-proof but can potentially crack if it becomes brittle over many years. For the mechanism, I find a well-built steel foot pedal is often more durable and long-lasting than electronic sensors.

How often should I replace my trash can’s odor filter?

Most manufacturers recommend replacing carbon odor filters every 2 to 3 months for optimal performance. The effective life of the filter can depend on the type and amount of pungent food waste you dispose of. I suggest buying a multi-pack of replacement filters when you buy the can so you always have them on hand.

Can I use any trash bag in my kitchen can?

While most cans are designed for standard bag sizes like 13 gallons, the fit can vary. Some custom-shaped cans work best with the manufacturer’s specific bags. To ensure a good fit with any brand, I highly recommend looking for cans with features like the bag rings on the Glad Premium, which help secure any standard bag and tuck in the excess.

Is a removable inner bucket important?

In my expert opinion, yes, a removable inner bucket is a critically important feature. It makes cleaning up spills and leaks incredibly easy, which is bound to happen eventually. This simple feature protects the main body of the trash can from getting dirty and developing permanent odors. It’s a key feature for long-term maintenance and hygiene that I always look for.

Where is the best place to put a trash can in the kitchen?

The ideal spot is a low-traffic area that is still convenient to your main food prep zone, like the end of a kitchen island or in a corner near the sink. Make sure it doesn’t block a cabinet or appliance door. A can with a flat back, like the SIMPLI-MAGIC, is perfect for placing flush against a wall to save space.

Do soft-close lids really make a difference?

Yes, they make a huge difference in the daily user experience. A soft-close lid completely eliminates the loud “bang” of a closing trash can, which contributes to a quieter, more peaceful kitchen environment. It’s a small luxury feature that, once you have it, you’ll never want to go back. I believe it is well worth it.

Final Verdict

After weeks of testing, it’s clear that a great kitchen trash can is an investment in a cleaner, more pleasant home. The best models balance durability, effective odor control, and daily convenience to fit your specific needs and kitchen space.

My final recommendation is clear.

For most people, the best choice is the Amazon Basics 50L Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can. It simply offers the best all-around combination of features for the price. You get a large capacity, a durable and quiet soft-close pedal, a fingerprint-resistant finish, and the all-important removable inner bucket. It’s the complete package.

This trash can is perfect for you if…
* You want a durable, reliable foot pedal mechanism.
* You hate loud, slamming lids.
* You want a large capacity for a family-sized household.
* You value easy cleaning and the security of a removable inner liner.
* You appreciate a premium look without a premium price tag.

It’s not ideal for…
* Very small kitchens where its footprint might be too large.
* Those who require active, filter-based odor neutralization for very strong smells.

If you are set on a high-tech, hygienic upgrade and don’t mind dealing with batteries, my top alternative recommendation is the EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter Motion Sensor Trash Can. Its flawless touchless operation is a joy to use.

Ultimately, by matching your household’s needs to the features I’ve detailed, you can confidently select the perfect kitchen trash can from this list that will serve you well for years to come.

Last update on 2026-01-26 at 15:08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API