7 Best Touchless Trash Cans to Buy in 2026

The iTouchless 13 Gallon Sensor Trash Can 2.0 is a game-changer in smart waste management—crisp sensor response, pet-proof security, and true odor elimination make it a standout for modern households. Thanks to its enhanced Sensor 2.0 technology, the lid opens precisely when needed and ignores false triggers from passing pets or ambient movement, a common pain point with lesser models. The integrated PetGuard lock is a lifesaver for pet owners, finally putting an end to messy, paw-activated lid explosions that scatter trash across the kitchen floor.

In real-world use, this can shines in high-traffic areas like kitchens and offices, where touch-free hygiene matters most. The 13-gallon capacity fits standard bags perfectly and handles daily waste without constant emptying, while the AbsorbX filter actively neutralizes odors instead of masking them—no more stink bombs when opening the lid. It runs on 4 D-cell batteries (up to 1.5 years) or can go corded with an optional AC adapter, offering long-term flexibility. The LED status ring is a small but brilliant touch, giving instant visual feedback on lid status without guesswork.

Compared to the budget-friendly NineStars DZT-50-9, the iTouchless 2.0 delivers smarter sensing, superior odor control, and a more polished design, justifying its position as the best overall pick despite a higher cost. It strikes a perfect balance between advanced features, durability, and user-centric design, making it ideal for families, pet owners, and anyone prioritizing cleanliness and convenience. While it lacks wheels or dual compartments, it outperforms in core functionality and build quality—a smarter, more reliable daily performer than the NineStars, and more feature-complete than the basic SensorCan.

The NINESTARS DZT-50-9 proves that affordable doesn’t mean underpowered, delivering solid touchless performance and a sleek stainless build at a fraction of premium prices. Its infrared motion sensor reliably opens the lid within a 6-inch range, minimizing false triggers, while the delay sensing tech prevents unnecessary openings from pets or quick passersby—ideal for busy households. The soft-close lid dampens noise and extends mechanical life, a thoughtful detail often skipped in budget bins.

During testing, the 13-gallon oval design fit neatly in corners and under counters, holding bulky kitchen waste with ease. It runs on 3 C batteries (not included), with decent efficiency—expect several months of use under normal conditions. The removable ring liner keeps trash bags taut and hidden, eliminating the unsightly overhang that plagues many basic cans. However, the sensor can be sluggish in low light, and the lid sometimes fails to detect slow hand movements, requiring a second wave.

When stacked against the iTouchless 13 Gallon 2.0, the NineStars lacks odor filtration, pet lock, and LED indicators, making it less equipped for homes with pets or odor sensitivity. Yet, as the best budget-friendly option, it delivers core touchless functionality with reliable build quality, perfect for renters, offices, or secondary spaces where advanced features aren’t critical. It’s not as smart or secure as the iTouchless, but far more capable than basic manual bins.

The SensorCan 13 Gallon stands out with a rare plug-in advantage—the included AC adapter eliminates battery anxiety, making it a set-and-forget solution for high-use areas. Its wave-activated sensor is responsive and consistent, opening smoothly within 8 inches, while the AbsorbX filter with replacement alerts ensures odors stay neutralized, not just masked. The slim oval footprint tucks tightly against walls, maximizing floor space in compact kitchens or offices—a real win for urban homes.

In practice, the no-inner-bucket design boosts usable capacity by up to 25%, easily swallowing large takeout boxes or grocery packaging that would strain other 13-gallon bins. The air vents and retainer ring make bag changes quick and tear-free, a small but meaningful upgrade over fussy inner buckets. Running on AC power means zero battery maintenance, though the cord may be a visual downside in minimalist spaces. The sensor occasionally misfires if hands pass too quickly, but overall performance is dependable.

Compared to the iTouchless 13 Gallon, the SensorCan trades the LED status ring and PetGuard lock for direct plug-in convenience and slightly better space efficiency. It’s less pet-secure but more practical for permanent setups where battery changes are a hassle. As the best with plug-in option, it’s ideal for offices, garages, or kitchens near outlets—offering smarter long-term usability than battery-dependent rivals, even if it lacks some premium polish.

The simplehuman 12 Gallon is a masterclass in premium engineering—whisper-quiet operation, precision motor control, and a germ-resistant finish elevate it above the competition. Its dual infrared sensors detect motion from both above and in front, ensuring reliable, no-wave opening even with full hands. The lid moves with a smooth, silent glide, thanks to a planetary gear system that feels more appliance than trash can. The silver-ion coating actively resists fingerprints and bacteria, keeping the brushed steel looking pristine with minimal wiping.

In daily use, the semi-round shape fits snugly in corners while offering easy front access, and the liner pocket stores replacement bags inside the can—no more hunting under the sink. The 12-gallon capacity is slightly smaller than others on this list, but the efficient design compensates with smart space use. Battery life is solid (6–9 months on 4 D-cells), though the lack of an AC option is a drawback for permanent installations. It’s nearly flawless in performance, but the premium feel comes at a steep cost.

Stacked against the iTouchless 13 Gallon, the simplehuman trades capacity and pet lock for superior build, quieter mechanics, and better liner management. It’s the best premium build for those who value silence, aesthetics, and long-term durability over features like odor filters or plug-in power. While it doesn’t include an AC adapter or wheels, it delivers a luxury experience unmatched by budget or mid-tier models—outshining the SensorCan in refinement, though at nearly double the price.

The 13.2 Gallon Dual-Compartment Sensor Can is the ultimate recycling-ready workhorse, combining dual sorting chambers, effortless mobility, and smart odor control in one powerful unit. Its motion-sensing lid opens smoothly with a hand wave, and the stay-open mode keeps it ajar during heavy dumping—perfect for cleanup after meals or sorting recyclables. The four removable wheels and ergonomic handles make it easy to roll from kitchen to garage or outdoor bins, a rare feature in sensor cans.

Real-world testing showed the dual-chamber design excels in homes committed to recycling—no need for two separate cans. Each side holds about 6.6 gallons, enough for daily use, and comes with a built-in deodorizer compartment (includes two filters). Powered by 6 AA batteries, it offers up to 6 months of use, though heavier traffic may drain it faster. The soft-close lid reduces noise and wear, but the sensor can be overly sensitive near high-traffic zones, occasionally opening when no one is close.

Compared to the iTouchless 13 Gallon, this model sacrifices single-bin capacity and pet lock for versatile sorting and mobility—making it the best for recycling setups. It’s less secure for pet homes but far more practical for multi-stream waste management. While it doesn’t match the simplehuman’s refinement, it outperforms in utility and flexibility, offering a mobile, dual-purpose solution no other model provides.

The iTouchless 18 Gallon Wings Open is engineered for tight spaces where every inch counts, featuring a vertical dual-wing lid that lifts straight up—no wide swings—making it perfect for under-cabinet or corner installs. With Sensor 2.0 accuracy, it avoids false triggers while delivering touchless reliability, and the PetGuard lock ensures pets can’t turn it into a playground. The 18-gallon capacity is generous, ideal for high-traffic areas like offices or garages, yet the slim footprint keeps it unobtrusive.

In practice, the upward-opening doors eliminate clearance issues, a major win in cramped kitchens. The AbsorbX filter effectively neutralizes odors, and dual power options (batteries or AC adapter) offer long-term flexibility. It runs on 4 D-cells (up to 1.5 years), and the fingerprint-proof steel resists smudges in busy environments. However, the wing mechanism is louder than single-lid models, and the lid takes slightly longer to close fully.

Against the standard iTouchless 13 Gallon, this model trades a bit of speed and quiet for massive capacity and space-saving design, making it the best for tight spaces with heavy use. It’s less compact than the SensorCan but holds more and opens smarter in constrained areas. While not as quiet as the simplehuman, it delivers unmatched utility in narrow setups—outperforming all others where vertical clearance is limited.

The KOEYLE 2.2 Gallon Touchless Can is a compact powerhouse built for small, moisture-prone spaces like bathrooms and bedrooms. Its ultra-fast 0.1-second sensor response delivers instant lid opening, while the IPX5 waterproof rating ensures durability in splash zones—no fear of damage from sink sprays or shower humidity. The fully sealed one-piece barrel locks in odors, keeping bathrooms smelling fresh, and the manual open/close buttons let you override sensor mode for extended use.

At just 7.6 inches wide, it slips into narrow gaps between toilet and wall, a godsend for small bathrooms. The 2.2-gallon size fits daily waste without frequent emptying, and 2 AA batteries power each can for months. The non-slip base keeps it stable, and the matte black finish hides water spots and fingerprints. However, the sensor range is short—sometimes requiring direct hand positioning—and the plastic build, while durable, feels less premium than stainless models.

Compared to full-size sensor cans, the KOEYLE is not meant for kitchens, but as the best small bathroom use option, it outshines larger models in space efficiency and moisture resistance. It lacks odor filters or metal build, but delivers essential touchless hygiene where it’s needed most. For tight, wet spaces, it’s more practical than the SensorCan or iTouchless, offering smart, compact design at a wallet-friendly price.