8 Best Kitchen Trash Cans of 2026

The Rubbermaid Premier Series III commands attention with its rugged elegance and thoughtful engineering—this isn’t just a trash can, it’s a long-term investment in kitchen functionality. Boasting a charcoal stainless-steel rim, LinerLock™ bag-hiding technology, and a slow-close lid mechanism, it solves common frustrations like slipping liners and noisy slams with surgical precision. Designed in North Carolina and built in Kansas from high-grade materials, it’s engineered to endure years of daily abuse while maintaining a sleek, professional look—ideal for homes, offices, or even garages where durability is non-negotiable.

In real-world use, the 12.4-gallon capacity strikes a smart balance between volume and footprint, fitting neatly under most countertops. The interior venting channels make removing full trash bags dramatically easier—no more suction seal struggles—while the discrete lid lock lets you choose between staying open during cleanup marathons or sealed tight against pets and odors. Though slightly smaller than some 13-gallon competitors, its flared base enhances stability, preventing wobbles even on uneven floors. It performs consistently across environments, though the charcoal plastic body, while tough, isn’t as fingerprint-resistant as stainless steel alternatives.

When stacked against the Amazon Basics model, the Rubbermaid wins on longevity and bag management, but sacrifices the smudge-proof sheen some users crave. It’s best suited for those who prioritize reliability, ease of use, and smart design over glossy finishes. While pricier than budget picks, its superior craftsmanship and performance justify the cost for anyone seeking a no-fail, long-lasting kitchen workhorse that blends utility with understated style.

Don’t let the name fool you—Amazon Basics delivers anything but basic performance with this smudge-resistant, soft-close stainless steel trash can that punches well above its price point. With a brushed satin nickel finish, quiet foot pedal, and removable inner bucket, it’s a minimalist’s dream—clean lines, zero clutter, and a stay-open lid that makes filling a breeze. It’s built for real-life messes: the stainless exterior shrugs off fingerprints, and the heavy-duty plastic liner withstands scrapes and dents, making it perfect for busy kitchens or office break rooms.

At 7.9 gallons, it’s on the smaller side—ideal for spaces where a full 13-gallon bin would overwhelm, like studio apartments or pantries. The manual foot lever operates smoothly and quietly, avoiding the clunkiness found in cheaper step cans, while the soft-close lid glides shut without slamming. We tested it over weeks of heavy use and found the pedal mechanism remained responsive, though the compact size means more frequent emptying. It’s not designed for large families or heavy cooking days, but for light to moderate use, it’s impressively efficient.

Compared to the larger, pricier EKO or simplehuman models, this one trades capacity and high-tech features for compact practicality and affordability. It’s the go-to choice for renters, students, or anyone who wants a no-frills, reliable can that cleans up easily and disappears into the background. While it won’t match the bag-fit precision of a simplehuman, it offers exceptional value for low-traffic areas where simplicity and hygiene matter most.

Step aside, foot pedals—EKO Mirage-T brings sci-fi convenience to your kitchen with ultra-responsive motion sensor technology that opens the lid in under 0.3 seconds, no touch required. This 13.2-gallon touchless can doesn’t just impress with speed; its anti-fingerprint stainless steel finish repels smudges like magic, while the no-liner design unlocks 25% more capacity than traditional cans—perfect for reducing how often you take out the trash. It’s a hygiene powerhouse, ideal for germ-conscious homes or households with little kids and pets.

Powered by AA batteries (lasting up to 8 months), the sensor is smartly tuned to avoid false triggers from walking pets or ambient light changes. In testing, it opened reliably from multiple angles, even with hands full of food scraps. The brushed steel body feels premium, and the quiet close function ensures peace during late-night disposals. However, the lack of a bag liner means you’ll need to clean the interior more often, and while the capacity is generous, bag overhang can be an issue if not secured properly.

Next to the Ninestars touchless model, the EKO stands out with greater capacity and superior fingerprint resistance, though it lacks a removable inner bucket for easy cleaning. It’s best for tech-savvy users who want a sleek, high-capacity, touch-free experience without constant maintenance. For those willing to trade a bit of convenience for cutting-edge sensor performance and extra space, this can delivers premium touchless functionality that justifies its higher cost.

If trash bag slippage drives you crazy, simplehuman’s code P liner system is nothing short of revolutionary—this 13-gallon semi-round can is engineered for perfect bag fit, every single time. The patented Lid Shox technology ensures a silent, controlled lid close, while the slide lock secures the lid shut—keeping pets and toddlers out with confidence. Its space-efficient shape slides neatly into corners or tight spaces, making it a favorite in high-traffic kitchens where function meets form.

During testing, the semi-round design proved superior for foot traffic flow, avoiding sharp corners that snag legs or cabinet doors. The black plastic finish hides scuffs and resists fingerprints better than stainless steel, and the stay-open lid is a game-changer for multi-step cleanups. Though it lacks a smudge-proof exterior, the build quality is solid, and the pedal mechanism withstands repeated use without wobbling. The only catch? You’ll need to buy proprietary liners, which are pricier than standard bags.

When compared to the Glad or KdbK models, this one wins on bag security and noise control, though it falls short on odor protection and premium materials. It’s tailor-made for organized households that demand precision, quiet operation, and space-saving design. While not the flashiest, its best-in-class liner system and thoughtful engineering make it a top pick for those who want a seamless, mess-free experience—even if it means paying more for custom bags.

Ninestars strikes the sweet spot between smart tech and real-world reliability with its infrared touchless trash can that opens fast, shuts quiet, and resists false triggers like a champ. The delay-sensing technology prevents accidental openings when walking by, while the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel base keeps the can looking clean with minimal effort. With a 13-gallon capacity and removable ring liner, it handles standard trash bags with ease—no need for custom fits—making it one of the most user-friendly touchless options on the market.

Powered by two D batteries (not included), it delivers consistent performance over months of use, and the quiet closing mechanism extends the product’s lifespan while reducing noise. The black plastic lid hides wear better than metal, and the water-resistant sensor shrugs off spills and humidity—ideal for steamy kitchens or bathrooms. In practice, it responded reliably within 6–8 inches, though direct sunlight could occasionally interfere with sensitivity. It’s not the flashiest, but it’s built for dependable daily use.

Against the EKO Mirage-T, the Ninestars trades a bit of capacity and sleekness for better bag compatibility and a more forgiving sensor system. It’s the ideal choice for families wanting a hassle-free, hygienic solution without sacrificing practicality. With a two-year warranty and strong customer support, it offers the best blend of value, durability, and touchless convenience—making it a smarter long-term pick than pricier, less flexible models.

The SIMPLI-MAGIC isn’t just a trash can—it’s a complete odor-fighting, quiet-closing, fingerprint-proof system designed for modern living. With a built-in odor filter, soft-close lid, and smudge-resistant stainless steel finish, it tackles the three biggest kitchen bin complaints in one sleek package. The interior hinge design keeps walls and cabinets scuff-free, while the removable plastic liner makes cleaning a snap—no more wrestling with stuck bags or grimy interiors.

At 13.2 gallons, it offers ample space for daily use, and the foot pedal is responsive and sturdy, tested for over 200,000 cycles. In real-world testing, the odor filter noticeably reduced food smells, especially with compost or fish waste—something most step cans can’t claim. The lid closes gently every time, and the stay-open lock is perfect for deep-cleaning sessions. While the build feels solid, the plastic liner isn’t as durable as ABS buckets found in higher-end models.

Stacked against the KdbK or Glad cans, SIMPLI-MAGIC pulls ahead with superior odor control and wall-friendly design, though it’s one of the priciest options. It’s the ultimate pick for urban dwellers, dorm rooms, or open-concept kitchens where smell and aesthetics matter. With its all-in-one feature set and elegant footprint, it justifies its premium status as the most well-rounded, lifestyle-optimized trash can in the lineup.

KdbK redefines quiet operation with a bi-force damper system that delivers the smoothest, most satisfying soft-close lid we’ve tested—gentle, silent, and completely slam-free. Crafted from fingerprint-proof stainless steel, this 13-gallon can resists smudges and scratches like a pro, while the 90° stay-open lid lets you multitask without holding it open. The pedal is tested for 200,000 presses, promising over 25 years of use—making it one of the most durable budget-friendly options available.

The removable ABS inner bucket is a standout—impact-resistant, easy to clean, and equipped with a bag-fixing hole to prevent slippage. In daily use, it handled heavy loads without creaking, and the soft-close mechanism worked flawlessly even after repeated slamming (intentional testing, of course). It comes with 20 heavy-duty trash bags, a rare bonus. The only downside? The lid doesn’t lock shut, leaving it vulnerable to curious pets.

Compared to the simplehuman model, KdbK offers better lid mechanics and a more durable bucket at a lower price, though it lacks advanced bag retention. It’s perfect for households that value quiet, cleanliness, and long-term reliability without paying a premium. With its excellent damping system and rugged build, it delivers soft-close luxury that outperforms many higher-priced rivals—a true sleeper hit in the kitchen trash category.

Glad brings its odor-fighting expertise to the trash can world with a plastic 13-gallon bin infused with Clorox Odor Protection—and it works. The labeled lid actively neutralizes smells for the life of the can, making it a standout for homes that deal with food waste, diapers, or pet messes. Paired with a stainless steel foot pedal and interior bag rings, it delivers a clean, secure fit for standard bags while maintaining a sleek, matte black finish that hides wear better than metal.

Despite being plastic, the build feels sturdy, and the rectangular shape maximizes corner fit without taking up excess floor space. The pedal is responsive and doesn’t creak, and the bag rings do an excellent job tucking away excess plastic for a tidy look. In testing, it handled wet and smelly waste with less odor transfer than stainless models—proof that material choice can be a strength, not a compromise.

When compared to the Rubbermaid or simplehuman, it trades metal aesthetics for superior odor control and affordability, making it ideal for families, offices, or rental units where smell management is critical. While it won’t last as long as all-metal cans, its odor-neutralizing lid and practical design offer unmatched freshness at a wallet-friendly price—a smart pick for anyone who hates taking out the trash because of the stink.