We Tasted & reviewed The Best Kitchen Trash Cans independently and we highly recommend those products, if you purchase those products go through with our link we will get a commission here.
Throwing away kitchen waste can be messy, smelly — and often inconvenient. That’s why having the right kitchen trash can is more important than you might think. A well‑designed trash can can keep odours contained, make disposal easy, and help keep your kitchen space clean, hygienic, and organized.
As we step into 2026, new models of kitchen trash cans offer smarter features — like pedal‑open lids, odor‑sealing mechanisms, hands‑free sensors, and easy‑to‑clean interiors. In this guide, we highlight the best kitchen trash cans you can buy today — whether you want budget‑friendly simplicity or advanced, smart convenience.
Whether your kitchen is compact or spacious, whether you produce a little garbage daily or deal with heavy waste from cooking, we’ve got options to suit different needs and lifestyles. With the right trash can, you’ll keep your kitchen tidy and make waste disposal effortless.
List Of The Best Kitchen Trash Cans
1. Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50L/13.2 Gal, 16.7×14.7×25.9 in, Satin Nickel Finish
The Amazon Basics Smudge-Resistant Rectangular Trash Can is a high-capacity, stylish waste bin designed for everyday kitchen use with convenience and cleanliness in mind. Its 50 L (13.2 gallon) size provides plenty of room for household trash, reducing the need for frequent emptying, and the brushed stainless steel with satin nickel finish resists fingerprints and smudges, helping it stay cleaner and more attractive on your countertop or floor.
The soft-close foot pedal offers quiet, effortless operation — simply step to open and the lid closes gently and silently, which is ideal for busy kitchens or shared living spaces.
The rectangular shape makes efficient use of space, fitting neatly against walls or in tight corners, and the removable inner bucket with handles makes bag changes quick and hygienic. Durable, practical, and designed with everyday use in mind, this trash can is a reliable, low-maintenance choice for kitchens, laundries, offices, or other high-traffic areas.
Price : $89.99 (When Reviewed)
Specification
- Brand Name – Amazon Basics
- Item Type Name – Trash can
- Item Dimensions L x W x H – 16.73″L x 14.65″W x 25.87″H
- Recommended Uses For Product – Home,Office
- Color – [‘Satin Nickel’]
- Material Type – Stainless Steel
- Opening Mechanism – Open-Top, Step-On
- Additional Features – Quiet Close
- Capacity – 13.2 Gallons
2. iTouchless 13 Gallon Automatic Sensor Trash Can with AbsorbX Odor Filter, Stainless Steel Kitchen Garbage Bin, Fingerprint-Proof, Hands-Free Operation, Oval
The iTouchless 13 Gallon Automatic Sensor Trash Can is a sleek and convenient kitchen garbage bin engineered to make everyday waste disposal hygienic, easy, and odor-controlled. It features a motion-activated sensor lid that opens automatically with a simple wave of your hand, allowing hands-free operation that helps reduce the spread of germs and keeps your kitchen cleaner.
The trash can’s stainless steel body is fingerprint-proof and smudge-resistant, making it easier to maintain a polished, modern look with minimal cleaning. A built-in AbsorbX® natural carbon odor filter works to neutralize unpleasant smells, helping keep your kitchen smelling fresh even with frequent trash use.Its space-saving oval design fits neatly in tight spots beside counters or appliances, and the extra-wide opening makes disposing of bulky items — like pizza boxes or cartons — more effortless.
Compatible with standard 13-gallon trash bags, it doesn’t require special liners, and you can power it with batteries or an optional AC adapter for flexible placement. This combination of touchless convenience, odor control, and easy maintenance makes it a practical and stylish choice for kitchens, offices, or shared spaces.
Price : $74.99 (When Reviewed)
Specification
- Brand Name – iTouchless
- Item Type Name – iTouchless 13 Gallon SensorCan Kitchen Trash Can with Odor-Absorbing Filter, Stainless Steel, Oval Shape
- Item Dimensions L x W x H – 16″L x 11.4″W x 25.3″H
- Recommended Uses For Product – Home, Kitchen, Office
- Color – Light Silver, Black
- Material Type – Stainless Steel
- Opening Mechanism – Motion-Sensor
- Additional Features – Automatic, Lightweight, Motion Sensor, Odor Seal, Smudge Resistant
- Capacity – 13 Gallons
3. EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel Finish
The EKO Mirage-T 50 L (13.2 Gal) Touchless Motion Sensor Trash Can is a modern, hygienic waste-disposal solution that combines hands-free operation with sleek, fingerprint-resistant stainless steel to enhance both convenience and kitchen aesthetics. Its motion sensor lid opens automatically with a simple wave of your hand — ideal when your hands are full or messy — and a soft-close mechanism ensures quiet, gentle lid movement without slamming.
The can’s brushed stainless steel finish resists smudges and stays cleaner longer, while its rectangular shape and generous capacity make it suitable for busy households or high-traffic areas without taking up excessive floor space. Designed with a no-liner interior and inner rim to secure trash bags neatly, it maximizes usable space and makes bag changes easier, and a manual touch switch lets you keep the lid open during longer tasks if needed. Powered by batteries and built for everyday convenience and style, the EKO Mirage-T blends practical features with contemporary design for efficient, hands-free waste management.
Price : $94.90 (When Reviewed)
Specification
- Brand Name – EKO
- Item Type Name – Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can
- Item Dimensions L x W x H – 14.8″L x 9.8″W x 24.6″H
- Recommended Uses For Product – Home, Kitchen
- Color – Black, Grey, Silver
- Material Type – Stainless Steel
- Opening Mechanism – Motion-Sensor
- Additional Features – Motion Sensor, Quiet Close, Removable Lid, Removable Liner, Smudge Resistant, Stay Open Lid
- Capacity – 50 Liters
4. Ninestars Automatic Touchless Infrared Motion Sensor Trash Can, 13 Gal 50L, Stainless Steel Base (Rectangular, Black Lid), Black Trim
The Ninestars Automatic Touchless Infrared Motion Sensor Trash Can is a modern, hygienic waste-disposal solution that helps keep your kitchen and home cleaner and more convenient with hands-free operation — simply wave your hand or an object near the infrared sensor to open the lid without touching the bin. Its 13-gallon (50 L) capacity is spacious enough for busy households, and the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel base with a black lid and trim maintains a sleek, low-maintenance look while resisting smudges.
Advanced infrared sensor technology preserves battery life and helps prevent unnecessary openings, and a quiet close mechanism ensures smooth lid action that won’t slam shut.
The trash can also features a removable ring liner that holds the trash bag securely in place and hides it from view for a neater appearance, plus a non-skid base that protects floors from scuffs. With its touchless convenience, durable construction, and thoughtful design focused on cleanliness and ease of use, this Ninestars model is a practical upgrade for any kitchen, office, or home space.
Price : $62.27 (When Reviewed)
Specification
- Brand Name – Ninestars
- Item Type Name – Ninestars Automatic Touchless Infrared Motion Sensor Trash Can, 13 Gal 50L, Stainless Steel Base (Rectangular, Black Lid), Black Trim
- Item Dimensions L x W x H – 15.24″L x 11.22″W x 25.04″H
- Recommended Uses For Product – HOffice,Dormitory,Kitchen,Home
- Color – Black Trim
- Material Type – Stainless steel with plastic lid
- Opening Mechanism – Motion-Sensor
- Additional Features – Motion Sensor, Quiet Close, Removable Lid, water resistant
- Capacity – 13 Gallons
5. Keter Baltimore Resin 38 Gallon Outdoor Kitchen Trash Can with Lid and Drip Tray for Easy Cleaning-Perfect for Patio Dining, Black
The Keter Baltimore Resin 38 Gallon Outdoor Kitchen Trash Can is a durable and spacious waste-management solution designed for outdoor living spaces such as patios, decks, pool areas, or garden kitchens. Constructed from weather-resistant resin, it withstands sun, rain, and temperature changes without rusting or fading, making it ideal for year-round outdoor use.
Its 38-gallon capacity provides ample room for household waste or party refuse, reducing the need for frequent emptying during gatherings. The integrated lid helps contain odors and hides trash from view, while the removable drip tray at the bottom catches spills and makes cleanup quick and mess-free.
Simple to maintain and easy to position in outdoor spaces, this trash can blends practicality and rugged design, helping keep your outdoor kitchen or entertaining area clean, organized, and ready for use
Price : $ Unavailable (When Reviewed)
Specification
- Brand Name – Keter
- Item Type Name – Cleaning – Perfect for Patios, Kitchens, and Outdoor Entertaining
- Item Dimensions L x W x H – 16.14″L x 16.14″W x 34.4″H
- Recommended Uses For Product – Outdoor
- Color – Black
- Material Type – Resin
- Opening Mechanism – Manual-Lift
- Additional Features – Fade Resistant, Stain Resistant, Sturdy
- Capacity – 38 Gallons
6. Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black
The Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can is a practical and user-friendly kitchen waste bin designed to combine everyday convenience with effective odor control. Its hands-free step-on foot pedal lets you open the lid without touching the bin, helping keep your hands clean while cooking or handling trash.
The odor-protecting lid helps contain unpleasant smells, making it especially useful in busy kitchens or high-traffic areas. Built with garbage bag rings, it holds bags securely in place and prevents them from slipping down into the can, which makes changing bags quick and hassle-free. The classic black finish blends easily with most kitchen décor, and the 13-gallon capacity offers enough space for typical household waste without frequent emptying.
Overall, this Glad trash can delivers straightforward functionality, reliable performance, and thoughtful features that make daily cleanup easier and more hygienic.
Price : $ Unavailable (When Reviewed)
Specification
- Brand Name – Glad
- Item Type Name – 13 Gallon Trash Can | Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid | Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings
- Item Dimensions L x W x H – 18″L x 14.7″W x 25″H
- Recommended Uses For Product – Kitchen
- Color – Black
- Material Type – Plastic
- Opening Mechanism -Step-On
- Additional Features – Odor Seal
- Capacity – 13 Gallons
7. SONGMICS Trash Can, 2 x 8 Gallon (2 x 30 L) Garbage Can for Kitchen, with 15 Trash Bags, 2 Compartments, Plastic Inner Buckets and Hinged Lids, Airtight, Silver and Black ULTB60NL
The SONGMICS 2 × 8 Gallon (2 × 30 L) Trash Can (ULTB60NL) is a dual-compartment kitchen waste solution that makes sorting and managing household trash simple and efficient. With two separate bins in one unit, it’s ideal for everyday waste separation — for example, general trash and recyclables — without needing multiple standalone cans.
Each compartment includes a plastic inner bucket with a hinged lid that opens smoothly and stays largely airtight to help contain odors, and the included 15 trash bags add convenience right out of the box. The sleek silver and black design fits easily into modern kitchens, while the sturdy construction ensures durability under regular use.
Its compact footprint lets it fit neatly against a wall or under a countertop, making this dual trash can a practical choice for households that value cleanliness, organization, and easy waste disposal.
Price : $139.99 (When Reviewed)
Specification
- Brand Name – SONGMICS
- Item Type Name – Dual Trash Garbage Can, 16 Gal (60L) Rubbish Bin and 15 Trash Bags, Metal Step Bin, with Inner Buckets Soft Closure
- Item Dimensions L x W x H – 23.2″L x 12.8″W x 25.7″H
- Recommended Uses For Product – Kitchen
- Color – Silver + Black
- Material Type – Powder-Coated Stainless Steel Bin, PP Plastic Inner Bucket, ABS Plastic Lid
- Opening Mechanism – Step-On
- Additional Features – Sturdy, Soft-close, Hands-Free Operation, Removable Bucket, Dual Compartment
- Capacity – 16 Gallons
8. Amazon Basics Rectangular Small Trash Can with Lid and Soft-Close Foot Pedal for Bathroom, Bedroom, Living Room, Office, Smudge Resistant, 20l / 5.3 gallon, Nickel
The Amazon Basics Rectangular Small Trash Can is a compact and stylish waste bin designed for everyday use in bathrooms, bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices where space is limited. Its 20 L (5.3 gallon) capacity is perfect for light to moderate trash needs, and the soft-close foot pedal offers quiet, hands-free operation — the lid gently closes without slamming, helping reduce noise and keep your space tidy.
The smudge-resistant nickel finish helps minimize fingerprints and keeps the can looking clean and sleek with minimal maintenance. Its rectangular shape makes efficient use of space, fitting flush against walls or under counters, and the removable inner bucket makes changing liners and cleaning quick and hygienic. Practical, low-maintenance, and designed with everyday convenience in mind, this trash can is a versatile and attractive addition to any room in the home.
Price : $55.79 (When Reviewed)
Specification
- Brand Name – Amazon Basics
- Item Type Name – Trash Can
- Item Dimensions L x W x H – 11.81″L x 11.42″W x 20.67″H
- Recommended Uses For Product – Home, Office
- Color – Nickel
- Material Type – Stainless Steel
- Opening Mechanism – Step-On
- Capacity – 20 Liters
9. ELPHECO Automatic Motion Sensor Trash Can – 2 Gallon Slimline for Bathroom, Bedroom, Kitchen, Office – White with Gold Trim
The ELPHECO Automatic Motion Sensor Trash Can is a sleek and compact waste bin ideal for small spaces like bathrooms, bedrooms, offices, or kitchens where a full-size can isn’t needed. With its hands-free motion sensor lid, it opens automatically when you approach — making disposal clean and convenient, especially when your hands are full or dirty.
Its 2-gallon slimline design fits neatly into tight spots without taking up valuable floor space, while the stylish white body with gold trim adds a modern and elegant touch to any décor.
The lid closes quietly and securely, helping minimize odors and keep trash out of sight, and the removable inner bucket makes emptying and cleaning simple. Lightweight, practical, and easy to use, this sensor trash can is a smart choice for keeping small areas tidy with minimal effort.
Price : $29.74 (When Reviewed)
Specification
- Brand Name – ELPHECO
- Included Components – Trash Can, Trash Bag
- Item Dimensions L x W x H – 10″L x 5.3″W x 11.42″H
- Recommended Uses For Product – Bathroom, Home Office, Kitchen, Nursery, Dining Room
- Color – Golden
- Material Type – Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, Plastic
- Opening Mechanism – Motion-Sensor
- Additional Features – Commercial, Motion Sensor, Quiet Close, Slim, Sturdy
- Capacity – 2 Gallons
10. Amazon Basics Round Cylindrical Home Office Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, 20 l /5.3 gallon, Brushed Stainless Steel
The Amazon Basics Round Cylindrical Home Office Trash Can is a sleek and practical waste bin designed for everyday use in spaces like home offices, bedrooms, bathrooms, or other small areas. Featuring a 20 L (5.3 gallon) capacity, it’s large enough for daily trash without being bulky, and the soft-close foot pedal allows for hands-free, quiet operation — the lid closes gently without slamming, helping reduce noise and disruption. Its brushed stainless steel finish resists fingerprints and smudges, keeping the can looking cleaner and more polished with minimal upkeep.
The cylindrical shape makes efficient use of space and fits comfortably beside desks, counters, or cabinets, while the removable inner bucket simplifies bag changes and cleaning. With its combination of stylish design, practicality, and easy maintenance, this trash can is a dependable, low-profile choice for modern living and working spaces.
Price : $53.59 (When Reviewed)
Specification
- Brand Name – Amazon Basics
- Item Type Name – Trash can
- Item Dimensions L x W x H – 15.12″L x 12.01″W x 17.44″H
- Recommended Uses For Product – Home,Office
- Color – [“[‘Brushed Stainless Steel’]”]
- Material Type – Stainless Steel
- Opening Mechanism – Step-On
- Capacity – 20 Liters
What to look for in a Kitchen Trash Can
Capacity / Size — Choose a bin size appropriate for how much trash you generate and how often you empty it. For small kitchens or one‑person households, a smaller bin (~20–30 liters) may suffice. For larger families or regular cooking, a larger bin (≈ 30–50 liters, or more) helps by reducing how often you need to empty it.
Material & Durability — Stainless steel bins tend to be more durable, resist odors, are easier to clean and often look more aesthetic. Plastic bins are usually lighter and cheaper, but may wear out faster or absorb odor.
Lid & Opening Mechanism — Hands‑free operation (e.g. foot‑pedal, motion sensor) is very convenient when cooking or cleaning, so you don’t need to touch the bin with dirty hands.
Odor Control & Seal — A tight‑sealing lid or odor‑control features help keep smells contained — especially important for kitchen waste.
Ease of Cleaning & Maintenance — Bins with removable inner buckets or liners, smooth interiors, and materials easy to wipe down help when cleaning or when a bag leaks.
Bag / Liner Compatibility & Secure Bag Holders — A good trash can should hold the trash bag securely so it doesn’t slip into the bin when you throw waste. Some bins have bag‑securing mechanisms that make bag replacement easier and cleaner.
Stability & Floor Footprint — Make sure the base is stable so the bin won’t tip over, especially if you have children or pets around. The shape (slim, rectangular, round) should also suit your kitchen layout so it doesn’t get in the way.
Additional Features or Convenience — Depending on your needs, extra compartments (for recycling or separating types of waste), soft‑close lids (to reduce noise), dual compartments, or even sensor‑based opening could be important.
FAQs — Kitchen Trash Cans
1. What size trash can do I need for my kitchen?
It depends on how much waste your household produces:
- For a single person or couple: a small bin (roughly 20–30 litres / ~10–13 gallons) is often enough.
- For a family of 3–4 people: consider a mid‑size bin (around 30–40 litres).
- For larger households or lots of cooking waste: a 50 litre or larger trash can ensures you don’t need to empty it too often.
2. What lid / opening mechanism should I choose?
- Pedal‑operated lids let you open the bin hands‑free — hygienic and convenient when your hands are dirty or full.
- Touchless / motion‑sensor lids are even more convenient if you often handle food waste or want minimal contact.
- Swing‑top or manual lids are simpler and cheaper, but they may not seal tightly, which can lead to odour or leaks.
3. Why does material & build quality matter?
A durable bin — ideally made of stainless steel or sturdy plastic — will last longer, resist stains or bacteria, and be easier to clean. Stainless steel bins often look sleek and handle frequent use well.
Cheap bins may crack or wear out faster, or absorb smells over time.
4. Is odor control important? What should I check for?
Yes — especially for kitchen waste. Look for bins with tight‑sealing lids and good design to contain smells. Some bins come with inner liners or buckets that can be removed for cleaning, which also helps prevent lingering odour and makes maintenance easier.
5. How easy should a trash can be to clean and maintain?
Very. The interior should be smooth and easy to wipe down. If the bin has a removable inner bucket or liner, it becomes easier to empty and clean — especially after throwing wet or messy waste.
Good trash cans also allow easy bag placement so garbage bags don’t slip inside.
6. Should I consider trash bag compatibility and ease of replacement?
Yes. A trash can should comfortably fit standard-size garbage bags, and ideally have a mechanism (like bag holders) to keep the bag in place so it doesn’t slip inside when you throw away waste.
7. Are extra features (e.g. dual compartments, sensor lids) worth it?
If you generate mixed waste (e.g. recyclables + general trash), a bin with dual compartments can help with waste separation.
Sensor lids or pedal lids add hygiene and convenience — especially useful in busy kitchens.
But if you want simplicity or have a small kitchen, a basic bin might be enough.
8. Where is best to place the kitchen trash can?
Place it where you frequently produce waste — near the sink, food‑prep area or trash‑heavy zones — to make disposal quick and easy. Also consider floor space: choose a compact shape if space is limited.
9. How often should I empty or clean my kitchen trash can?
Empty the bin before it gets overfilled — this prevents spills, leaks, and odours. Clean the interior (wipe or rinse) regularly, especially if food waste or liquids are involved, to avoid bacterial growth or bad smell.
10. Can I use a trash can for recycling or waste separation?
Yes — bins with dual or multiple compartments are ideal if you separate recyclables, compostables, and general waste. This helps keep trash organized and simplifies waste disposal.
