8 Best Trash Cans Under $50 to Buy in 2026

This stainless steel workhorse redefines what you can expect from a sub-$50 trash can, delivering premium durability, silent soft-close mechanics, and fingerprint-resistant elegance in one sleek 13-gallon package. The brushed stainless steel body doesn’t just look high-end—it resists smudges and wipes clean effortlessly, a game-changer for busy kitchens where spills and sticky fingers are daily occurrences. Backed by a pedal tested over 200,000 cycles, this bin promises long-term reliability, solving the all-too-common issue of flimsy pedals snapping after months of use.

In real-world testing, the bi-force damper system shines, offering a smooth, controlled lid closure that eliminates annoying slams—ideal for homes with kids or light sleepers. The 90° stay-open feature is a subtle but brilliant touch, keeping the lid propped while you scrape plates or fill the bin during meal prep. The removable ABS inner bucket handles heavy loads without warping and includes a clever bag-retention hole, preventing slippage even when the trash bag is overstuffed. At 50 liters, it fits standard 13-gallon bags perfectly, though its bulk may challenge tighter corners.

Compared to the Glad 13-gallon model, the KdbK trades plastic simplicity for metal sophistication and superior mechanics, making it a better fit for those prioritizing longevity and quiet operation over minimalism. While it lacks odor-blocking tech, its tight-sealing lid and stainless build naturally resist smells better than porous plastics. For homeowners who want a durable, elegant centerpiece in their kitchen, this is the clear upgrade—offering near-luxury performance without the designer price tag.

The Glad 13-gallon trash can stands out in the mid-budget arena with its built-in Clorox odor protection, a rare and practical feature that directly tackles one of the biggest pain points in kitchen hygiene. Its matte black plastic shell gives it a modern, understated look while hiding scuffs and fingerprints better than glossy alternatives. The foot pedal offers reliable, smooth operation, and the interior bag rings are a small but essential detail that keeps trash bags neatly anchored—a frustration many users face with cheaper bins.

During daily use, this bin proves its worth in smell-prone environments, where food waste and damp diapers can quickly permeate a room. The odor-blocking lid formulation works continuously, not just masking but inhibiting odor development at the source. Its rectangular shape maximizes capacity while fitting neatly under most cabinets, measuring 18” wide and 25” tall—ideal for kitchens with limited floor space. However, the plastic construction, while durable, can amplify noise when the lid slams shut, and it lacks any soft-close mechanism, making it less ideal for quiet households.

When stacked against the KdbK stainless model, the Glad bin trades metal prestige for smart sanitation tech, making it a better pick for families battling persistent odors. It’s not as visually upscale, but for those who care more about function and freshness than finish, this is a no-nonsense workhorse. It delivers exceptional value for its category, offering specialized odor defense you won’t find in most plastic bins, even at higher price points.

Step into the future of waste disposal with this touchless 13-gallon marvel, a motion-sensing powerhouse that brings hospital-grade hygiene to your kitchen or bathroom. The automatic lid opens in under 0.5 seconds when your hand approaches, eliminating contact with germs—a lifesaver during flu season or meal prep. Encased in durable, scratch-resistant PP plastic, this bin is built to endure damp bathrooms and high-traffic offices, all while maintaining a sleek, modern profile that blends into any décor.

Powered by just 4 AA batteries, the sensor system is surprisingly energy-efficient, entering sleep mode between uses to extend battery life for months. The 50-liter capacity handles daily household waste with ease, and its wide opening makes it easy to toss in large items without aiming. However, the motion sensor can be overly sensitive in tight spaces, occasionally triggering when walking past, and it struggles in dim lighting where detection weakens. Unlike pedal bins, it offers zero manual override—if the batteries die, you’re stuck with a lid that won’t open.

Compared to the KdbK pedal model, this one sacrifices mechanical reliability for high-tech convenience, making it ideal for tech enthusiasts or germ-conscious users. It’s not as rugged as stainless steel, but its hands-free operation and energy efficiency make it a standout for bathrooms or offices. While it lacks odor control or soft-close features, its hygienic appeal and futuristic function justify the premium over basic bins—especially for those who prioritize cleanliness over tradition.

The Cesun 6-liter trash can is a masterclass in compact engineering, delivering stainless steel durability, silent soft-close action, and sophisticated odor sealing in a footprint small enough for the tiniest bathrooms. Its slim, space-saving design slips neatly beside toilets or under vanities, solving the eternal struggle of finding a bin that fits without sacrificing function. The anti-fingerprint matte black finish resists smudges and wipes clean with just water, maintaining a pristine look even in high-moisture environments.

In real use, the soft-close pedal mechanism operates with a whisper—comparable to flipping a book—making it perfect for nighttime use without waking others. The 90° stay-open lid is invaluable during bathroom cleanup, staying propped while you dispose of wipes or towels. The removable inner bucket simplifies emptying and cleaning, while the tight lid seal effectively locks in odors and keeps pets out, a major win for pet owners. At 1.6 gallons, it’s not for heavy waste, but it’s perfectly sized for daily bathroom needs.

Next to the Amazon Basics mini can, the Cesun model offers superior sealing and sturdier construction, with a longer pedal lifespan rated for 150,000+ steps. It doesn’t have a carry handle, but its targeted design and premium materials make it the best choice for small, high-use spaces. For anyone tired of flimsy plastic bins that warp or stink, this is elegant, functional, and built to last—a rare find in the small-can market.

The Rubbermaid Commercial wastebasket is the unsung hero of office environments, built like a tank with heavy-duty polyethylene that resists dents, cracks, and fading—even after years of daily abuse. Its stackable design is a logistical dream, allowing for easy storage and transport in bulk settings like offices, clinics, or dorms. The rolled rim adds structural strength while providing a smooth edge that won’t snag clothes or bags, and its low profile fits neatly under desks or sinks, maximizing floor space in tight workstations.

With a 10.25-gallon capacity, it strikes a balance between utility and manageability, large enough for a full workday’s waste but light enough to carry when full. The smooth resin interior wipes clean in seconds, resisting stains and odors better than porous materials. It lacks a lid or pedal, making it less ideal for kitchens or bathrooms, but in office or bedroom settings, this open-top design allows for quick, unobstructed disposal. The 41-quart size is slightly smaller than 13-gallon models, but its versatility and durability make up for the difference.

Compared to the N. NETDOT 3-pack, this single bin is more robust and professional-looking, though it lacks the value of multiples. It doesn’t offer soft-close or odor control, but for high-traffic, low-maintenance zones, its no-frills toughness is unmatched. It’s the go-to choice for facilities managers or minimalist users who want a reliable, long-lasting bin without gimmicks—delivering industrial-grade performance at a fraction of the cost.

The N. NETDOT 3-pack is hands down the best value proposition in the under-$50 category, giving you three durable, lidded bins for less than the cost of a single premium model. Each 2.6-gallon trash can is crafted from high-grade ABS plastic, offering impact resistance and easy wipe-down cleaning—perfect for bathrooms, bedrooms, or laundry rooms. The secure snap-on lids do double duty: trapping odors and keeping pets out, a major win for households with curious cats or dogs.

These bins shine in multi-room setups, allowing you to standardize waste bins across your home without overspending. Their slim profile fits into narrow gaps, like beside toilets or between washer and dryer, and their lightweight build makes them easy to carry and reposition. The smooth interior prevents grime buildup, and the tight lid seal keeps smells contained—though not as effectively as stainless steel models. While they lack pedals or soft-close features, their simplicity and reliability make them ideal for rentals, dorms, or secondary spaces.

Against the DAJITRE single can, this pack offers far better value and coverage, letting you place bins exactly where needed. They’re not as stylish as metal cans, but for budget-conscious buyers who need function and flexibility, this trio is unbeatable. It’s the smart choice for families, landlords, or college students—delivering practical, pet-proof performance across multiple rooms at a price that feels like a steal.

The Amazon Basics mini trash can is a compact powerhouse of convenience, packing stainless steel elegance, soft-close silence, and smudge resistance into a bathroom-ready 5-liter frame. Its brushed satin nickel finish resists fingerprints and water spots better than most metal bins, making it ideal for humid environments where smudges and streaks are a constant battle. The foot pedal delivers smooth, quiet operation, and the soft-close mechanism ensures a gentle, noiseless lid drop—a rare luxury in this size range.

Measuring just 7.3 x 8.5 x 11.8 inches, it tucks neatly into tight corners or beside toilets without dominating the space. The removable inner bucket simplifies emptying, and the integrated carry handle makes transport mess-free—perfect for discreet trash runs. While its 1.32-gallon capacity limits it to light-duty use, it’s perfect for daily bathroom waste or tissue disposal. The stay-open lid is a thoughtful addition, though it requires a firm press to engage.

Next to the Cesun model, it offers similar soft-close performance but with a more compact footprint and carry handle, giving it an edge in ultra-tight spaces. It lacks the Cesun’s odor sealing and pet resistance, but its smudge-resistant finish and portability make it a top pick for modern bathrooms. For those who want a quiet, clean-looking bin that disappears into the background, this is the ideal blend of form and function—offering refined details at a mid-tier price.

The DAJITRE 1.8-gallon can is a space-saving standout, designed with a sleek, patented screw-thread shape that combines modern aesthetics with maximum footprint efficiency. Its 6.8-liter capacity and 10-inch height make it ideal for narrow gaps, like between the sink and wall or in RVs and dorm rooms, where every inch counts. Crafted from super-strong polypropylene, it resists cracks and stains, and its smooth surface wipes clean with a damp cloth, ensuring long-term freshness.

This bin excels in decorative and compact roles, adding a contemporary touch to bathrooms, desks, or nightstands without drawing attention. The slim cylindrical design fits where rectangular bins can’t, and its lightweight build makes it easy to move or carry. However, it lacks a pedal or lid mechanism, relying on a simple open-top design, which limits its use in odor-prone areas. While durable, the plastic isn’t as premium as ABS or stainless steel, and it offers no odor control or pet protection.

Compared to the N. NETDOT 3-pack, the DAJITRE is more stylish and uniquely shaped, but less functional due to no lid. It’s best suited for dry, low-odor spaces like offices or craft rooms, where aesthetic and space efficiency matter most. For renters or minimalists seeking a sleek, no-fuss bin, it’s a smart, economical pick—offering distinctive design and practical size where traditional cans just won’t fit.