8 Best Home Trash Cans to Buy in 2026

The EKO Mirage-T redefines what a modern smart trash can should be—sleek, intuitive, and effortlessly hygienic. With its premium motion sensor technology, this touchless wonder opens smoothly within 10 inches of detection, offering a seamless experience that feels almost futuristic. Its anti-fingerprint brushed stainless steel finish not only resists smudges like a pro but also elevates kitchen aesthetics with a cool, polished look that blends into high-end decor. For users tired of sticky lids and grimy exteriors, this can delivers a hands-free, germ-conscious solution without sacrificing style or capacity.

In real-world use, the EKO shines in busy kitchens where speed and cleanliness are non-negotiable. The 50-liter (13.2-gallon) capacity handles multiple days of waste for families of four, while the no liner design maximizes usable space—a rare feature that adds tangible value. Powered by AA alkaline batteries, it boasts up to 8 months of reliable operation, thanks to its intelligent power management. However, the sensor can occasionally misfire if triggered by pets or fast movements, and the lack of a stay-open mode may frustrate during heavy disposal tasks. Still, its quiet, automatic closure ensures safety and peace, especially around kids.

Compared to the NINESTARS DZT-50-28, the EKO Mirage-T offers superior build quality and a more refined finish, though at a similar price point. While both are touchless, EKO’s larger effective sensing range and smoother lid mechanics give it an edge in daily usability. It’s ideal for tech-savvy homeowners who prioritize hygiene, design, and long-term performance over basic functionality. In the world of smart cans, the Mirage-T stands as a benchmark for premium touchless performance, balancing innovation with practicality better than most.

The KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can punches far above its weight, delivering premium pedal-bin performance at a budget-friendly price. Crafted from sturdy brushed stainless steel, it resists fingerprints and wipes clean in seconds—perfect for messy kitchens where spills and smudges are daily occurrences. Its standout feature is the bi-force damper system, which enables a silent soft-close lid that glides shut without slamming, a rarity in this price range. For families seeking durability without breaking the bank, this can solves the common pain points of noise, flimsy pedals, and ugly wear marks.

During testing, the removable ABS inner bucket proved incredibly practical—lightweight, impact-resistant, and easy to carry to the curb. The lid holds steady at 90° when propped open, allowing hands-free trash loading while cooking or cleaning. With a 200,000-step pedal tested lifespan, it’s built to last over two decades under normal use, making it a smart long-term investment. It handles standard 13-gallon bags with ease, and the included 20-pack of garbage bags is a thoughtful bonus. That said, the lid seal isn’t airtight, so odor control lags behind models with built-in filters.

When stacked against the Amazon Basics pedal can, the KdbK offers identical quiet operation and similar build, but with a more responsive pedal mechanism and better lid stability. It’s the go-to choice for value-focused buyers who still want soft-close luxury and commercial-grade resilience. While it doesn’t offer touchless convenience or odor-blocking tech, it nails the fundamentals better than most. For those upgrading from a flimsy plastic bin, the KdbK delivers refined performance with zero frills—and zero regrets.

The NINESTARS DZT-50-28 strikes an impressive balance between smart functionality and affordability, making it the top pick for those who want touchless convenience without overspending. Equipped with a water-resistant infrared sensor, it reliably opens within 6–8 inches of motion, sealing in odors and minimizing germ contact—a major win for hygiene-conscious households. Its fingerprint-resistant base stays clean with minimal effort, and the delay-sensing technology prevents false triggers from pets or passing traffic, a common flaw in cheaper sensor cans.

Real-world performance shows solid consistency across environments. The 13-gallon capacity fits standard kitchen waste needs, and the removable ring liner keeps trash bags taut and visually neat—no more drooping or slipping. It runs on two D batteries (not included), offering long-term power with low drain, though the lack of a stay-open function can be limiting during deep-cleaning sessions. The quiet closing mechanism extends lid life and reduces noise, but the motorized hinge isn’t as smooth as higher-end models like the EKO Mirage-T. In tight corners or under cabinets, its bulkier footprint may pose placement challenges.

Against the EKO Mirage-T, the NINESTARS trades some refinement for cost efficiency—its finish feels less premium, and the sensor is slightly less responsive. Yet, it outperforms in battery optimization and customer support, backed by a hassle-free two-year warranty. It’s best suited for renters, small families, or anyone wanting reliable hands-free operation with minimal maintenance. For the price, it offers the smartest blend of tech, durability, and user-centered design, making it a standout in the mid-tier touchless market.

When quiet operation is non-negotiable, the Amazon Basics 50L Pedal Can emerges as the undisputed champion—engineered for households that value peace as much as practicality. Its soft-close foot pedal system operates with a whisper, closing the lid in a slow, controlled descent that eliminates disruptive clangs, even in late-night disposal runs. The smudge-resistant satin nickel finish resists fingerprints and cleans effortlessly, while the heavy-duty plastic inner bucket ensures long-term resilience against cracks and odors.

In everyday use, this can excels in simplicity and reliability. The stay-open lid locks at 90°, freeing your hands during meal prep or cleanup, and the removable bucket with carry handle makes liner changes mess-free. Measuring 16.7” x 14.7” x 25.9”, it fits neatly under most cabinets, though its rectangular footprint demands more floor space than slimline models. It doesn’t offer touchless tech or odor filters, but what it delivers is rock-solid mechanical performance—no batteries, no sensors, no glitches. The pedal requires moderate force, which may be a drawback for elderly users or small children.

Compared to the KdbK 13 Gallon, both share soft-close mechanics and fingerprint resistance, but Amazon Basics edges ahead in lid stability and finish quality. It’s the ideal choice for minimalist kitchens, nurseries, or bedrooms where noise suppression and durability are top priorities. While it lacks the bells and whistles of smart bins, it masters the basics with unmatched consistency, offering a silent, dependable backbone for any home’s waste management system.

For eco-conscious households drowning in mixed waste, the Home Zone Living 19 Gallon Dual Bin is a game-changing solution for recycling and odor control. With 70 liters of total capacity split across two compartments, it effortlessly separates recyclables from general waste, streamlining disposal routines and encouraging sustainable habits. The CleanAura integrated filter system actively neutralizes odors, a rare and valuable feature that keeps kitchens smelling fresh even with food scraps or wet paper lingering for days.

In practice, the dual-flap top design allows quick, targeted disposal—just press the front flap for recyclables like bottles or paper without opening the main lid. Both lids feature slow-close mechanisms that shut silently and smoothly, maintaining a serene kitchen atmosphere. The removable liners with rubber band retainers keep bags secure and hidden, preventing unsightly overhang. At nearly 30 inches tall and wide, it demands significant floor space, making it better suited for large kitchens or utility rooms than compact layouts.

When compared to single-bin models like the Amazon Basics, the Home Zone trades compactness for superior organization and air quality. It outshines competitors in recycling efficiency and long-term freshness, though it lacks touchless operation or pedal access. It’s perfect for families committed to green living, or anyone tired of juggling multiple bins. While pricier than standard cans, it delivers unmatched functionality for multi-stream waste, making it the smartest investment for eco-focused homes.

The Cesun 6L Bathroom Trash Can is a masterclass in space-smart design, engineered to thrive in tight quarters where every inch counts. Its slim, rectangular profile fits neatly beside toilets, in shower niches, or under vanities—perfect for powder rooms, dorms, or RVs. The soft-close pedal mechanism operates with a near-silent tap, closing the lid gently without slamming, while the 90° stay-open feature lets you load waste hands-free during grooming or cleaning routines.

Performance-wise, it’s impressively durable for its size. The stainless steel body with anti-fingerprint matte black finish resists rust and wipes clean with a damp cloth, maintaining a sleek look over time. The removable inner bucket simplifies disposal and cleaning, while the tight-sealing lid locks in odors and deters pets from digging. Engineered for 150,000+ pedal cycles, it’s built to last over 20 years with daily use. However, the 1.6-gallon capacity fills quickly with heavy bathroom use, requiring frequent changes.

Pitted against larger kitchen bins, the Cesun isn’t meant to compete on volume—but it dominates in compact efficiency and quiet elegance. It outperforms generic small cans in build quality and pedal comfort, making it ideal for bathrooms, offices, or bedrooms where discretion and durability matter. For anyone battling clutter in narrow spaces, this can offers a sleek, functional upgrade that maximizes utility without sacrificing style. It’s the undisputed king of small-space waste management.

The Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can is a silent hero in odor control, leveraging Clorox-infused lid technology to neutralize smells at the source—making it the best choice for homes battling persistent kitchen odors. Unlike basic bins that merely trap smells, this model actively blocks odor molecules throughout the can’s lifespan, a rare feature in plastic waste bins. Its step-on foot pedal enables hands-free use, while the interior bag rings keep liners taut and hidden, ensuring a clean, professional look.

In real-world testing, it handled daily kitchen waste with ease, from coffee grounds to food scraps, without releasing noticeable odors—even after 48 hours. The matte black plastic shell resists scratches and fingerprints, and the rectangular 18” x 14.7” footprint fits snugly in most kitchen corners. While not as durable as stainless steel models, its lightweight build makes it easy to move or clean. The lid seal is effective but not hermetic, so extremely pungent items may still seep faint smells over time.

Compared to the SIMPLI-MAGIC pedal can, the Glad bin trades metal durability for superior odor defense at a lower cost. It lacks a soft-close mechanism, so the lid can snap shut loudly, and the plastic construction feels less premium. Yet, for families dealing with garbage smells or those using it in offices or break rooms, it delivers best-in-class freshness with zero maintenance. If odor elimination is your top priority, this can offers unbeatable protection in a simple, functional package.

The SIMPLI-MAGIC 13.2 Gallon Step Can enters the premium pedal category with elegant design and smart extras, positioning itself as the top pick for style-conscious users who want odor control and fingerprint resistance in one sleek package. Its built-in carbon filter actively suppresses kitchen smells, a feature typically reserved for high-end touchless models, while the fingerprint-proof stainless steel finish maintains a pristine look with minimal wiping. The soft-close lid shuts silently and smoothly, making it ideal for open-plan homes or late-night use.

In daily operation, the interior hinge design keeps the can flush against walls or cabinets, preventing scuffs and saving space. The removable plastic liner simplifies cleaning, and the stay-open lid function is a boon during heavy disposal tasks. It fits all standard 13-gallon bags and maintains stability thanks to its wide base. However, the pedal requires moderate force, and the filter needs periodic replacement, adding minor maintenance. The $100 price tag also places it at the upper end of the market.

Versus the Amazon Basics, the SIMPLI-MAGIC offers superior odor control and aesthetic refinement, though both share soft-close mechanics. It’s best suited for modern kitchens where appearance and air quality are as important as function. While it doesn’t offer touchless tech, it compensates with thoughtful details that elevate the everyday experience. For those willing to pay more for premium materials and built-in freshness, this can delivers luxury-level performance with practical intelligence.