Here are the best trash cans for a variety of purposes. This trash can has a soft-closing lid for quiet operation and opens via a steel foot pedal, which allows for hands-free, hygienic use. It also features stay-open technology so you can replace the bags and dispose of trash without interruption. This feature can come in handy when performing longer cleaning tasks. Owners say the trash can is compatible with tall garbage bags, but some report that bags slip into the canister. However, thanks to slide-groove handles on the removable inner bin, trash bag removal is practically effortless. The plastic inner bin also helps to contain odors, prevent messes, and it’s easy to clean—which is another big plus. To top it all off, the brushed stainless steel exterior is resistant to smudges and fingerprints, so it will maintain its sleekness and shine in the face of everyday use. The only downside is that it doesn’t include a lid, so you won’t be able to conceal the contents of your trash or fully suppress odors. However, it’s available in three sizes and three colors to suit a variety of needs. This Rubbermaid wastebasket is more utilitarian than most of our other picks, but it’s equally suitable for home and commercial use. The lid opens via a motion sensor and closes silently every time. If you need to tackle bigger cleaning tasks, you can use the built-in manual mode to keep the lid open longer. A removable ring liner holds trash bags securely in place and keeps them neatly concealed within the canister. This unit is compatible with standard-size trash bags, but you have the option to purchase customized liners from the manufacturer. We found a few reports of technical issues, particularly with the lid not working. However, this product comes with two-year warranty protection. At 17.6 pounds, this unit is on the heavier side and may be difficult to maneuver—particularly when full. However, the inner buckets lift out for easy emptying and cleaning, and the fingerprint-proof finish keeps it looking shiny after everyday use. Some say this unit isn’t compatible with standard-size trash bags, but you can purchase customized liners from the manufacturer to ensure a proper fit. Note that this trash can doesn’t have an inner bucket; interior rings secure the bag in place and prevent it from slipping down. There is a waste bag compartment on the back of the canister that you can use to store extra garbage bags discreetly. The unit dispenses trash bags on the side for neat and easy removal. This Glad trash can comes in several different finishes to match almost any decor, and the stainless steel construction is resistant to fingerprints. Weighing over 18 pounds, it’s no big surprise that this unit is on the heavier side, considering its large capacity. It’s also available in a smaller, 13-gallon version with the same convenient features. Thanks to a pre-assembled, one-piece track, this unit is straightforward to install. Once it’s in place, it glides smoothly on commercial-grade ball-bearing tracks, allowing easy access to the canister. With a 30-liter (8-gallon) capacity, this pull-out unit is smaller than standard trash cans. If you live in a busy household, you will likely need to empty it more frequently. It’s also available in a dual-compartment version that features separate bins for waste and recycling. For added peace of mind, Simplehuman backs this product with a five-year warranty. A strong steel foot pedal allows for hands-free operation, and there’s no inner bucket, which allows more room for trash. Another great feature is the fingerprint-proof finish, which keeps the trash can looking shiny even with everyday use. This 45-liter can is compatible with the simplehuman’s Odorsorb pods for keeping smells at bay and is also coated with an antimicrobial agent to prevent bacteria, mildew, fungi, and mold from forming. Another bonus: simplehuman backs this product with a ten-year warranty, ensuring years of reliable use. This trash can is available in four colors and two other sizes—including a 58-liter rectangular recycler and a 55-liter trash can—to suit a variety of needs. This trash can comes in four versatile color options (rose gold, black, white, and polished stainless steel) to match almost any decor. With a 6-liter capacity, this trash can is on the smaller side, but it should be just fine for your bathroom needs. However, it may be tricky to find compatible trash bags. Some users say standard plastic grocery bags work well enough. The manufacturer offers customized liners, but some users complain that they aren’t the best fit and don’t fully conceal the bag. If you’re using this trash can strictly for dry waste, you don’t have to line it with a plastic bag. With a weight of just 1 pound, it’s easy to lift and empty. Since this wastebasket is part of Rolodex’s mesh line, you can also purchase matching accessories such as pencil holders, letter trays, and laptop stands. While most people praise its sturdy design and practical functionality, some noticed some dents in the can when it arrived. Several trash bags come included, and users say the unit is compatible with standard grocery bags. Four magnetic buckles hold the trash bag securely in place, which is another convenient design feature. In addition to the trash canister, this unit has three pockets for extra storage. You can also use it as a storage bag for cups, snacks, toys, and other accessories. It seems to work well in most vehicles, but it may be too bulky in a compact car. If you need more space, this automotive trash can is also available in an 11-liter (3-gallon) version. Unlike many of our other picks, this trash can’s sensor can run on four D batteries or plug into a wall outlet if you purchase a separate AC adapter. According to the manufacturer, the battery life is three times that of other sensor cans, which means they only need to be replaced every one to two years. The Rubbermaid Brute is available in multiple colors and sizes to suit various needs. It’s also compatible with auto-lifting garbage trucks, further adding to its convenience. Thanks to smooth contours and seamless construction, it’s easy to clean. The only downside to this trash can is that it doesn’t have a locking lid, which means it’s susceptible to raccoons and other nosy critters. For busier areas like a kitchen or garage, you’ll likely need a trash can in the range of a 49-liter (13-gallon) capacity. If you live in a large household with four or more people, a unit with an extra-large capacity of 53 to 76 liters (14 to 20 gallons) may be necessary to handle the volume of waste produced.
Material
Trash cans come in a variety of materials, but stainless steel and plastic are the most common options. Plastic tends to be less expensive, easier to clean, and lighter in weight. On the downside, it is less durable than stainless steel and more prone to cracking in extreme temperatures. “Make sure to opt for trash cans that are not only durable and functional but also match the aesthetics of your home,” says Gill. “Woven options or wire mesh work well in a home office, while stainless steel is generally ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, or deep storage areas like garages.” Stainless steel trash cans offer a more modern aesthetic and are typically higher in price. More advanced models have high-tech features such as motion sensor activation. Stainless steel is more prone to showing fingerprints and other marks, which makes it trickier to clean, but some cans have a special finish that resists smudges. A stainless steel trash can will likely be heavier than a plastic one–another important factor to consider. If weight is a concern, consider a model that rolls around on wheels.
Lid Type
A trash can that allows for hands-free opening is the most hygienic option. Many units have a foot pedal for this purpose, but more advanced models are entirely touchless and operate by motion sensors or voice control. A soft-close lid ensures quiet operation and could be a welcome feature in any home, especially one with rambunctious children. “If you have pets or curious toddlers, consider investing in a trash can with a lid lock to reduce the chance of overturned messes,” advises Homer. Another convenient feature is a stay-open lid, which enables you to perform longer cleaning tasks without interruptions.
Liners and Extra Features
Since trash cans come in unique shapes and sizes, they might not be compatible with standard-size trash bags. Some manufacturers offer customized liners that won’t bunch up around the lid or slip into the can. “Trash cans have come a long way, and you can now source options that include concealed liner storage, dividers for recycling, interior rings to secure trash bags in place,” says Gill. A unit with an onboard storage compartment for trash bags offers easy refill access and helps to keep things tidy, and dual bins make it easy to dispose of trash and recyclables in one container. And if you’re interested in advanced features, smart technology such as motion sensors and voice commands can be convenient and help cut down on germs in a busy household.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Sage McHugh, a home and lifestyle writer who has been contributing to The Spruce since 2019. To select the best trash cans on the market, she considered dozens of products, carefully evaluating their material, capacity, lid type, and overall value. Sage consulted hundreds of customer reviews, as well as write-ups from third-party websites. Maggots thrive in hot weather, so be particularly mindful of letting food waste languish in a trash can in the dog days of summer. And don’t forget to regularly clean your trash can and remove any stray food debris as soon as you spot it. According to Homer, there are some other things you can do to deter maggots. Wrap up meat and thoroughly rinse food containers before placing them in the trash, keep your can in a cool spot out of direct sunlight, and invest in a trash can with a lid that seals tightly. For expert insight on incorporating trash cans into a home’s aesthetic, she consulted with Shira Gill, an organizing expert, and author of Minimalista. For the best cleaning practices, she interviewed Melissa Homer, a Trained Cleaning Professional and member of The Spruce’s Cleaning Review board.
