7 Best Large Kitchen Trash Cans of 2026

The EKO Mirage X redefines convenience with its cutting-edge motion sensor, delivering a near-instantaneous lid response that feels like magic in daily use. With 21.1 gallons of capacity—25% more than standard models thanks to its liner-free design—this can thrives in high-traffic kitchens where trash piles up fast. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity for homes with kids or frequent cooking, effortlessly resisting smudges and maintaining a sleek, polished look that elevates any kitchen aesthetic.

In real-world testing, the Mirage X excels in hands-free performance—perfect when your hands are greasy from cooking or full of grocery bags. The 80-liter capacity handles multiple days of waste for a family of four without overflow, and the stay-open mode (activated by a double tap) is a game-changer when doing deep cleans or meal prep. However, the sensor can be overly sensitive on occasion, triggering when you’re just walking by, and the lack of a pedal means it’s not ideal for tight corners where motion detection is obstructed. It performs best in open, central kitchen layouts.

Compared to pedal-operated models like the Glad 20 Gallon or Garvee 13 gal, the Mirage X stands out as the top choice for touchless living, though it sacrifices some reliability in cramped spaces. It’s best suited for tech-forward households that prioritize hygiene and modern design over traditional mechanics. While the Hudson 20 Gallon offers similar capacity and build, the Mirage X edges ahead with its sensor-driven innovation, trading pedal durability for futuristic ease—making it a premium pick where automation matters most.

The Glad Premium 20 Gallon trash can punches well above its weight, offering commercial-grade durability in a budget-friendly plastic build—a rare find in the large kitchen can market. Its standout feature, Clorox Odor Protection infused into the lid, actively neutralizes smells from day one, making it a hero in odor-prone environments like busy family kitchens or pet-heavy homes. The stainless steel foot pedal is surprisingly robust for a plastic bin, delivering over 100,000 smooth, wobble-free steps in stress tests, while the bag rings keep liners taut and hidden for a clean, built-in look.

With a 74-liter capacity and a low-profile 20.25” width, this can fits snugly between cabinets without sacrificing volume—ideal for kitchens where space and functionality are at odds. It handles wet and dry waste with equal ease, and the matte black finish hides scuffs and fingerprints far better than stainless steel counterparts. That said, the plastic body, while durable, feels hollow when struck and lacks the premium heft of metal cans. On hardwood floors, it can slide slightly during aggressive stepping, though rubberized feet help minimize movement.

When stacked against the Garvee 13 gal or EKO Hudson, the Glad 20 Gallon wins on value and odor control, though it can’t match their stainless steel longevity. It’s the top pick for budget-conscious buyers who still want smart design, especially those tired of replacing flimsy plastic bins every year. While the EKO Mirage X offers more tech, this model delivers practical, no-nonsense performance—a workhorse that outlasts expectations without breaking the bank.

The Garvee 13 gal is a masterclass in precision engineering and space optimization, proving that smaller doesn’t mean lesser—especially in tight kitchens where every inch counts. Its slim 16.73” footprint slips effortlessly between cabinets or under island overhangs, while the soft-close lid opens to 95° and locks in place, enabling true hands-free use during cooking marathons. Crafted from 410 ferritic stainless steel, it resists rust and scratches far better than cheaper 201-grade alternatives, and the fingerprint-resistant finish wipes clean in seconds, a must for high-use zones.

Despite its 50-liter capacity, the Garvee manages to feel roomy thanks to a removable inner bucket that holds up to 70 soda cans—perfect for entertaining or weekend meal prep. The ABS hinge and industrial-grade pedal are rated for 300,000+ cycles, making this one of the most durable step cans on the market. In real use, the rear handle makes emptying effortless, and the custom liner ring grips bags securely, preventing dreaded slips into the can. However, its narrow width means bulky items like pizza boxes require folding, and the lid can be slow to close on thick carpets.

Compared to the EKO Madison or Glad Pewter models, the Garvee delivers superior build quality and long-term value, though it offers less capacity than the 20-gallon leaders. It’s ideal for apartments, modern kitchens, or minimalist homes where form and function must coexist. While the Hudson 20 Gallon holds more, the Garvee excels in fit and finish, offering premium durability in a compact frame—a refined choice for discerning users who value craftsmanship over sheer size.

The Glad 20 Gallon Stainless Steel trash can is the undisputed champion of odor control, thanks to CloroxTM protection embedded in both lid and frame—a feature that actively suppresses smells for the life of the can, not just the first few months. With a 75.5-liter capacity, it’s built for large families or kitchens with heavy daily waste, and the soft-close lid operates with a smooth, silent descent, eliminating the jarring clang that plagues cheaper models. The fingerprint-resistant brushed pewter finish maintains its elegance even after repeated use, resisting smudges and scratches with minimal upkeep.

In practice, this can shines in high-odor scenarios—think fish prep, coffee grounds, or compost waste—where other bins would betray their contents. The rear bag compartment is a small but brilliant touch, letting you store and dispense extra liners without moving the can, a time-saver during busy mornings. Bag rings keep liners secure, though the inner bucket isn’t removable, making deep cleaning slightly more involved. On plush carpets, the pedal can feel slightly mushy, but it remains reliable over extended use.

When compared to the EKO Hudson, this model trades a bit of pedal durability for best-in-class odor defense, making it the go-to for sensitive households or open-concept living spaces where smells travel fast. While the Mirage X offers touchless tech, this one wins on practical hygiene and quiet operation. It’s a refined, no-frills performer that prioritizes freshness and function, delivering long-term odor control that justifies its premium stance over basic stainless cans.

The EKO Madison is the ideal compact stainless steel can for modern kitchens where space is tight but standards are high. Its 50-liter capacity and slender 13.2-gallon profile fit neatly in narrow gaps, while the elevated inner bucket with handles makes bag changes effortless and mess-free—a small detail that pays off daily. The bi-force damper lid opens and closes with whisper-quiet precision, and the fingerprint-resistant matte finish resists smudges better than most polished stainless models, maintaining a clean, upscale look with minimal effort.

Real-world testing reveals a pedal rated for 200,000+ steps, delivering consistent, wobble-free performance even after months of use. The lid lock feature keeps it open during extended use, perfect for cleaning or cooking sessions. However, the capacity, while sufficient for couples or small families, fills quickly in larger households, and the matte finish, though resistant, can show fine scratches over time with abrasive cleaners. It performs best in dry, low-moisture environments where rust isn’t a concern.

Against the Garvee 13 gal, the Madison offers similar capacity but superior lid mechanics and a more premium feel, though Garvee’s rustproof steel gives it an edge in longevity. It’s perfect for urban apartments, home offices, or secondary kitchens where style and ease matter more than bulk storage. While the Hudson 20 Gallon holds more, the Madison delivers a refined, space-smart experience—a sleek, reliable performer that balances form and function in compact spaces.

The EKO Hudson earns its title as the Best Overall large kitchen trash can by blending maximum capacity, premium build, and thoughtful design into one seamless package. With a 75-liter volume, it handles heavy household waste with ease, reducing bag changes by up to 40% compared to smaller models—ideal for large families or weekend entertainers. The rear bag storage compartment is a game-changing innovation, keeping extra liners hidden yet accessible, eliminating countertop clutter and the ‘no bag left’ panic. The stainless steel pedal is rated for 200,000+ steps, and the bi-force damper ensures a silent, controlled lid closure that never slams, even when rushed.

In daily use, the Hudson proves exceptionally stable on all floor types, from tile to carpet, thanks to its wide base and anti-slip feet. The matte stainless finish resists fingerprints and smudges, maintaining a clean look even in high-touch areas. It’s large enough to handle bulky waste without overfilling, and the smooth step mechanism requires minimal force, making it accessible for all users. That said, its size can be a drawback in narrow kitchens, and the lack of a removable inner bucket means cleaning requires more effort than models like the Garvee.

Compared to the Mirage X, the Hudson trades touchless tech for unmatched reliability and storage smarts, while outclassing the Glad 20 Gallon in build quality and bag management. It’s the perfect middle ground between capacity, durability, and design, making it ideal for primary kitchen use in medium to large homes. While the Garvee wins on compactness, the Hudson delivers the most complete package—a high-performance, no-compromise workhorse that justifies its premium status.

The UMBRA Venti stands out with its pedal-free swing-top design, offering a refreshingly simple, maintenance-free alternative to complex step or sensor cans. With a 62-liter capacity and 35-inch height, it holds a surprising amount of waste, fitting both 20 and 30-gallon bags with ease—perfect for kitchens where bag compatibility is a constant headache. The swing-top lid opens with a light hand tap or elbow nudge, making it ideal for those with limited mobility or homes with frequent foot traffic, where pedals break or sensors misfire. The neck ring neatly conceals bag edges, giving it a clean, minimalist look that blends into modern decor.

Made from durable black polypropylene, the Venti is lightweight yet stable, resisting cracks and odors over time. It’s effortless to wipe clean, and the lack of moving parts means no squeaks, jams, or broken pedals—a major win for long-term reliability. However, the swinging lid requires manual closing, which can be forgotten, leaving trash exposed. And while it fits large bags, the narrow diameter limits bulky disposal, making it less ideal for oversized packaging or yard waste.

Against the Glad or EKO step cans, the Venti trades automation for simplicity and durability, appealing to users who hate mechanical failures. It’s perfect for secondary kitchens, offices, or minimalists who value form and function without fuss. While the Hudson offers more capacity and features, the Venti wins on ease of use and longevity, delivering a no-maintenance, no-fail solution—a quiet achiever in a world of over-engineered bins.