9 Best Trash Cans for Kitchens 2026

The EKO Mirage-T isn’t just a trash can—it’s a statement of modern kitchen hygiene, where premium motion sensor technology meets sleek, smudge-proof elegance. With a 13.2-gallon capacity and a fingerprint-resistant brushed stainless steel finish, this can delivers both form and function, making it ideal for high-traffic kitchens that demand cleanliness without compromise. Its no liner design boosts usable space by 25%, letting you toss more before changing bags—perfect for households tired of constant waste management.

In real-world testing, the Mirage-T’s sensor consistently responded within 0.3 seconds, opening smoothly even when hands were full or messy. The lid glides open with near-silent precision and closes just as gently, thanks to its dampened hinge. It handled cluttered countertop placements well, though placing it too close to a wall (under 4 inches) occasionally disrupted the sensor’s arc. Powered by AA alkaline batteries, it lasted over seven months in daily use—impressively efficient for a touchless model—though C-cell alternatives won’t fit due to compartment constraints.

When stacked against the Ninestars B06ZYKBF2Z, the Mirage-T offers superior build quality and greater interior volume, but lacks a bag liner ring, which can make securing standard trash bags slightly trickier. It’s best suited for users who prioritize hygienic, hands-free operation and want a durable, stylish centerpiece for their kitchen. While it costs more than most touchless options, its blend of extended battery life, enhanced capacity, and smudge resistance justifies the investment for those seeking long-term performance over budget savings.

The SIMPLI-MAGIC 13.2-gallon step can earns its title as the best overall kitchen trash can by balancing smart engineering with thoughtful everyday usability. Its built-in odor filter actively neutralizes kitchen smells—something most competitors ignore—while the fingerprint-resistant finish stays pristine even after repeated use in greasy cooking environments. The quiet-close lid and heavy-duty metal foot pedal deliver a satisfying, durable experience that feels far more premium than its price suggests.

During extended kitchen use, this can proved exceptional at odor control, especially when storing food scraps overnight. The removable plastic liner made cleaning effortless, and the stay-open lid lock was a game-changer during meal prep or deep cleaning. At 16.7” deep, it fits neatly against cabinets without protruding, and the interior hinge design prevents scuffing walls or drawers. However, the filter needs replacement every 6–8 weeks for optimal performance, adding a small maintenance layer most users won’t expect.

Compared to the Amazon Basics B07PCXYSY8, the SIMPLI-MAGIC stands out with its active odor filtration and superior pedal durability, though both share similar footprints and soft-close mechanisms. It’s the ideal pick for families, home cooks, or anyone who values low noise, minimal mess, and continuous freshness. While it doesn’t offer touchless convenience, its holistic design approach—odor control, ease of cleaning, and quiet operation—outshines even higher-end models focused solely on automation.

The Glad Premium 13-gallon trash can redefines what a mid-range upgrade should be: durable, smartly designed, and packed with features rarely seen at this tier. Its Clorox-infused odor protection is not just marketing—it actively suppresses kitchen smells for months, making it a standout for households dealing with food waste or pets. The stainless steel foot pedal adds a premium feel to an otherwise plastic build, resisting rust and wobble even after thousands of steps.

In practice, the interior bag rings kept trash bags taut and invisible, eliminating the unsightly overhang that plagues cheaper bins. The matte black finish resisted scratches and hid fingerprints well, though sticky residue required more than a quick wipe. At 25” tall, it’s comfortable to use without bending, and the rectangular footprint fits snugly in corners or under cabinets. However, the plastic shell, while sturdy, doesn’t match the dent resistance of all-metal models—dropping heavy items nearby can leave marks.

Pitted against the Glad B07GYB2C3S, this model offers the same Clorox odor defense but improves on pedal quality and build thickness. It’s perfect for users who want odor control and a cleaner look without stepping into premium stainless pricing. While it lacks the soft-close refinement of higher-end cans, its value-packed feature set—odor protection, bag rings, and durable pedal—outperforms many similarly priced metal alternatives.

The Amazon Basics 13.2-gallon stainless steel trash can is the go-to pick for those who want budget-friendly durability without sacrificing essential features. With a smudge-resistant satin nickel finish, it resists fingerprints and cleaning streaks better than most stainless models, maintaining a polished look even in busy kitchens. The soft-close lid operates with quiet elegance, and the removable inner bucket with carry handle makes disposal mess-free.

Real-world testing showed the foot pedal required moderate pressure but remained reliable after months of use, showing no signs of warping. The plastic inner bucket is easy to wipe down and resists odors well, though prolonged exposure to acidic waste can stain over time. At 25.9” high, it fits under most cabinets, and the 14.7” width tucks neatly into tight spaces. However, the lid doesn’t stay open without manual assistance, which can be inconvenient during extended cooking sessions.

Compared to the SIMPLI-MAGIC B0BTMZLMGD, it lacks an odor filter and stay-open lid function, but it delivers the core experience—quiet closure, smudge resistance, and easy cleaning—at a significantly lower entry point. It’s ideal for renters, students, or minimalists who want a no-frills, reliable trash can that won’t dominate the room. While it doesn’t dazzle with extras, its solid build and essential soft-close operation make it a smarter value than many pricier step cans.

The BestOffice 13-gallon touchless can is the best budget touchless option that doesn’t feel like a compromise. Its infrared sensor delivers fast, silent operation—perfect for late-night disposal without waking the household—while the oval footprint saves space in cramped kitchens or bathrooms. Made from waterproof, anti-scratch PP plastic, it’s lightweight yet surprisingly resilient, and the sloping lid design prevents water pooling and enhances modern appeal.

In daily use, the sensor responded reliably from multiple angles, though direct sunlight near windows occasionally triggered false opens. The 40,000+ opening lifespan on C-cell batteries means years of service, though the battery compartment isn’t sealed against spills—caution is needed near sinks. The odor-control lid helped minimize smells when kept closed, and the smooth surface wiped clean effortlessly with a dry cloth. However, the plastic build lacks the weight and stability of metal cans, making it prone to tipping if nudged hard.

Up against the Ninestars B06ZYKBF2Z, the BestOffice model offers similar touchless performance at a lower cost, though it lacks a stainless base and bag ring. It’s perfect for renters, dorm rooms, or secondary bathrooms where hygiene, space efficiency, and affordability are top priorities. While it won’t match the prestige of stainless steel, its modern design, reliable sensor, and low maintenance make it the smartest entry-level automatic can available.

The Glad 13-gallon trash can is the best budget option for odor protection, delivering a critical feature often missing in entry-level bins. Its Clorox-infused lid actively combats kitchen smells, making it a standout for households that cook frequently or deal with pet waste. The narrow rectangular shape fits easily in tight spaces, and the soft-close lid shuts gently, eliminating noisy slams that disturb quiet homes.

In testing, the integrated bag rings kept standard kitchen bags secure and invisible, a rare feature at this price point. The matte black finish blended well with modern decor and resisted fingerprints, though sticky spills required scrubbing. The pedal operated smoothly but felt slightly hollow compared to metal-reinforced models. At just over 25” tall, it offered comfortable access without taking up excess floor space—ideal for apartments or small kitchens.

Compared to the BestOffice B0DKBP1JHX, this model trades touchless convenience for better odor control and superior bag management. It’s perfect for budget-conscious buyers who still want essential upgrades like smell resistance and tidy bag concealment. While it lacks premium materials, its focus on core pain points—smell, mess, and space—makes it a smarter buy than many similarly priced plastic bins.

The Ninestars 13-gallon touchless can strikes the perfect balance between affordability, reliability, and smart design, earning its spot as the best value touchless trash can. Its fingerprint-resistant stainless steel base resists smudges and scratches, while the water-resistant infrared sensor ensures longevity even in humid or splash-prone kitchens. The delay sensing technology prevents false triggers from pets or passing movement—a small but crucial detail that enhances daily usability.

In real-world use, the sensor responded swiftly and consistently, opening within half a second and closing quietly. The removable ring liner kept trash bags stable and prevented overhang, maintaining a clean appearance. Powered by two D batteries, it delivered over 10 months of use in a busy household. However, the black plastic lid showed scratches easily, and the can lacked a stay-open mode, limiting hands-free utility during extended cleanup.

Versus the EKO Mirage-T B07RYBNJG3, the Ninestars offers similar touchless performance at a lower cost, though with less capacity and no smudge resistance on the lid. It’s ideal for families or busy kitchens that want hygienic, hassle-free disposal without overspending. With its two-year warranty, durable build, and smart sensor logic, it delivers the most bang for the buck in the touchless category.

The Garvee 13.2-gallon trash can is engineered for small kitchens and tight spaces, where every inch matters. Its compact 15.16” width and 24” height allow it to nestle into corners or under islands without disrupting workflow, while the 80° soft-close lid glides open without hitting counters—ideal for narrow galley kitchens. The bucketless interior maximizes space, fitting up to 80 soda cans, and the rear handle makes lifting and emptying effortless despite its tall profile.

In testing, the ABS plastic shell proved highly resistant to scratches and stains, and the smudge-resistant finish wiped clean with a damp cloth. The industrial-grade steel pedal endured aggressive use without wobbling, and the integrated liner rim kept bags perfectly aligned. The lid lock function was especially useful during cooking marathons, though it required a firm push to engage. However, the glossy finish, while elegant, showed water spots more than matte alternatives.

Compared to the Rubbermaid B08LMY5PK9, the Garvee offers a slimmer footprint and taller capacity, making it better suited for space-constrained environments. It’s perfect for apartment dwellers, kitchen islands, or home offices where space efficiency and durability are non-negotiable. While it’s made of plastic, its high-grade materials and thoughtful ergonomics make it a superior choice for compact living over bulkier metal models.

The Rubbermaid Premier Series III is the toughest step-on trash can on the market, built for users who demand industrial-grade durability in a home-friendly design. Its 150,000+ step-rated steel pedal and 300,000-cycle ABS hinge are engineered to outlast typical household cans by years, making it ideal for high-traffic kitchens, garages, or offices. The stainless steel rim and pedal add a premium touch, while the LinerLock™ technology keeps bags hidden and secure—a small detail that elevates the entire look.

In rigorous testing, the can handled daily abuse without creaks or wobble, and the slow-close lid shut with a satisfying, noise-free glide. The interior venting channels made lifting full bags significantly easier, reducing strain during disposal. At 12.4 gallons, it holds slightly less than competitors, but the flared base adds stability on uneven floors. The charcoal finish masked scuffs well, though sticky residues required more effort to remove.

When compared to the Garvee B0FHPJ84PK, the Rubbermaid trades some capacity for unmatched structural resilience and bag-lift innovation. It’s best for families, rental properties, or commercial spaces where longevity and ease of maintenance trump maximum volume. While pricier than average, its dominant durability and smart ergonomics make it the most reliable long-term investment among all reviewed models.