Contents
You might be searching for the best automatic trash can for your home or office. The top choice is the Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection. It has a 13-gallon capacity and helps block unwanted smells for the life of the can. For a more budget-friendly option, consider the UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can. You’ll give up some size with its 3.5-gallon capacity, but it still meets basic needs.
The main tradeoff in this category is between size and odor protection. Glad offers a larger capacity with odor-blocking features, while UUJOLY is smaller and simpler. The rest of this page will help you decide which features matter most for your space.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Trash Cans Reviewed in Detail
Here, we will explore the best automatic trash cans available today. Each has unique features that make it suitable for specific needs.
1. Top Pick
Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Plastic Bin, 13 Gal, Black
- 13-gallon capacity rectangular waste bin provides ample room for household, office, or commercial trash disposal
- Lid formulated with Clorox Odor Protection helps block and trap unwanted smells for the life of the can
- Interior bag ring liner secures trash bags in place while preventing bag overhang for a neat appearance
- Step pedal design allows for hands-free operation, making it easy to dispose of waste without touching the lid
- Durable plastic construction is lightweight, easy to clean, and built for long-lasting daily use
The Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection is practical for many uses. Its 13-gallon size suits households and offices well. The special lid helps block bad smells. It also has an interior bag ring to keep trash bags secure. This prevents messy overhang. The design is simple and sleek.
Pros
Effective odor protection. Large capacity of 13 gallons. Secures trash bags neatly.
Cons
The plastic material may not last as long as metal options.
Works well in homes, offices, and commercial spaces.
A solid choice for anyone needing a reliable trash can with odor control.
2. Runner-Up
Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Stainless Steel Rim, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office
- STAINLESS-STEEL ACCENTS: Charcoal stainless-steel rim and pedal upgrade the aesthetics of the container to complement your space
- PREMIUM, MODERN DESIGN: Designed with clean, modern lines and a flared base to elevate the aesthetic of the container while increasing stability
- HANDS-FREE USE: Wide, charcoal stainless steel foot pedal provides easy access and is designed to last
- SLOW CLOSE LID: Quiet, controlled lid closure is designed to reduce unwanted noise and ease down gently
- LID LOCK: Discrete lid lock keeps the container lid locked open for longer tasks, or closed to keep out pets and children
- METAL RIM HIDES BAG: Integrated LinerLock(TM) technology hides liner bags from view to maintain a sleek look and secures the bag to the container to prevent slipping
- EASY BAG LIFT: Interior venting channels thoughtfully designed to make removing heavy trash bags effortless
- SUPERIOR CRAFTSMANSHIP: Thoughtfully designed in Huntersville, NC and manufactured in Winfield, KS, the container is engineered with strong, high-quality materials for long-lasting, dependable use
Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can combines style with function. Its 12.4-gallon capacity is suitable for kitchens and offices. The stainless-steel rim adds a modern touch. The step-on feature allows for hands-free use, which is convenient. The stable design keeps it from tipping easily.
Pros
Attractive stainless-steel accents. Hands-free operation. Modern design improves aesthetics.
Cons
The pedal may wear out over time with heavy use.
Great for kitchens and office spaces where design matters.
A good pick for those wanting a stylish, hands-free trash can.
3. Best Compact
KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid, 50L Fingerprint Proof Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Removable Inner Bucket and Lid Soft Close, Pedal Rubbish Bin…
- 【High Quality Construction】KdbK 13 Gallon Garbage can made of sturdy stainless steel with brushed surface, anti-fingerprints and easy to clean. ABS handle and base, anti-slip design.Pedal tested 200,000 times, service life over 25 years.
- 【Comes with 20 garbage bags】Garbage bags suitable for 13 Gallon trash can included.Even if the garbage fills the entire garbage bag, our high-quality garbage bags can withstand it.The regular 13-gallon garbage bag in the supermarket can be used in our stainless steel trash can.
- 【Silent Soft Closure】The built-in bi-force damper enables both automatic and manual closing for ultimate convenience: it gently pulls the lid shut at a controlled slow pace (avoids pinching hands with its anti-slamming design), while the 90° stand-up feature lets it stay open hands-free for kitchen chores. Need to close it manually? Just press down—the damper ensures a smooth, silent glide every time, eliminating noisy bangs that disturb family. Perfect for safe, quiet use in any household.
- 【Sturdy Removable Inner bucket】ABS Inner bucket very strong and can withstand impact. Even if it is accidentally hit, it will be difficult to break.There is a small hole in the inner bucket to fix the garbage bag.
- 【Our commitment】If you have any quality problems with the trash can, we will give you a 100% satisfactory reply, and the customer service team is at your service at any time.
KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can offers a fingerprint-proof surface. This makes cleaning easier. It has a sturdy stainless-steel construction that lasts. The inner bucket is removable for easy bag changes. A soft close lid prevents noise when shutting.
Pros
Durable stainless steel. Soft close lid. Comes with 20 garbage bags.
Cons
The size may be too big for smaller kitchens.
Ideal for larger kitchens and homes.
A durable and practical option for families with high trash needs.
4. Best Premium
SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close, Smudge Resistant Trash Can with Foot Pedal and Built in Filter- Stainless Steel, Sleek Finish
- Quiet-Close Lid: Lid closes quietly and gently without slamming. Hands Free and Fingerprint Proof: Hands-free operation with a durable metal foot pedal and fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish keeps your trash can cleaner longer. Designed in California
- Dorm Room Essentials: Keep your student’s space clean while in college with Simpli-Magic step cans that are sleek and easy to match all dorm decor, great for girls and guys. No catridge included.
- 13 Gallon Step Trash Can: Ideal for kitchen use, this can fits most brands of trash bags. Compatible with ours CODE B – SIMPLI-MAGIC 8 Gallon Drawstring Trash Bags! Trash bags sold separately.
- Easy to Use with Built-in Odor Filter Holder: Removable plastic liner and stay open lid lock make bag changes and cleaning easy. Odor filter helps reduce unpleasant smells.
The SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter Trash Can blends design with functionality. It features a quiet-close lid that prevents slamming. Its fingerprint-resistant finish keeps it clean. The foot pedal allows for hands-free use, making it easier to operate. This can is designed for everyday use.
Pros
Quiet lid operation. Fingerprint-proof surface. Sleek, modern look.
Cons
Not as big as other trash cans at 13.2 gallons.
Suitable for homes and dorms where noise is a concern.
A stylish option that fits well in small spaces.
5. Best Budget
Cesun Small Bathroom Trash Can with Lid, 1.6 Gal, Soft Close, Matte Black
- Perfect For Limited Spaces – 1.6 Gallon Capacity, 11.2″ H x 11.2″ L x 5.9″ W. The efficient rectangular shape waste bin can be located in tight spaces and corners like bathroom, nursery room, dorm room, small kitchen, office or wherever space is small
- Soft Close Lid & Lid Stay-Open Feature – The lid closes silently and softly every time. You can rest assured that you can use, do not worry about disturbing the rest of your family. Stay-open lid feature, the lid stays open for as long as you need, perfect for longer chores
- Anti-Rust & Anti-Fingerprint – Elegant metal black, the smooth surfaces to keep trash can shiny and stays cleaner longer. The color is great and matches perfectly with the room
- Hygienic & Hands-Free – The lid opens and closes smoothly and quietly with a push of the pedal
- Removable Inner Bucket – Can be easily removed for convenient waste disposal. 100% Risk Free Purchase – If the trash can arrived dented or have any other problems, feel free to contact us and we’ll provide you with satisfactory after-sales service
- Fits Standard Small Bags – Compatible with regular 1.5–1.6 gallon trash bags—no special bags required. For the best fit and a cleaner look, choose our custom-fit Code A trash bags.
Cesun Small Bathroom Trash Can is designed for tight spaces. Its 1.6-gallon capacity is perfect for small rooms. The soft-close lid ensures quiet operation. It can stay open when needed, which is convenient. The matte black finish adds a modern touch.
Pros
Compact design fits in small areas. Soft-close feature is quiet. Clean, modern appearance.
Cons
Too small for larger kitchen use.
Great for bathrooms, nurseries, or small kitchens.
A good option for limited spaces needing a trash can.
6. Best Lightweight
Glad Slim Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection – Narrow Kitchen Garbage Bin with Soft Close Lid, Step On Foot Pedal and Waste Bag Roll Holder, Stainless…
- NARROW TRASH CAN SAVES SPACE – The Glad 12 Gallon Slim Trash Can easily fits into tight spaces and small kitchens with its slender profile. The space-saving design makes this skinny metal trash can great for any household or office.
- 45 LITER TRASH CAN WITH BAG RINGS – Narrow trash can features a heavy duty, rectangular stainless steel body and fingerprint-resistant finish. Its bag rings neatly tuck away slack, secure the trash bag in place, and prevent fall-through.
- CLOROX PROTECTION TRAPS ODORS – Formulated with Clorox Protection to block unwanted odors for an airtight seal that keeps your home smelling fresh and clean.
- STAY OPEN LID – Stainless steel trash can is made with a stay open option that keeps the lid upright. Great for tasks that require frequent opening like cooking, cleaning, and meal prepping.
- STEP TRASH CAN WITH SOFT CLOSE LID – Lidded kitchen trash can is built with an easy step foot pedal for hands-free use. Garbage can lid is specially designed for a quiet, controlled open and close every time.
Glad Slim Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection is narrow but effective. Its 12-gallon capacity suits small kitchens or offices. The soft-close lid prevents noise. It also features a step-on pedal for easy access. The design helps save space in tight areas.
Pros
Space-saving design. Effective odor protection. Soft-close lid for quiet use.
Cons
Limited capacity might not suit bigger households.
Perfect for small kitchens and offices with limited space.
A functional choice for tight spaces requiring odor control.
7. Best Heavy-Duty
UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket, Garbage Container Basket for Bathrooms, Laundry Room, Kitchens, Offices, Kids Rooms, Dorms, 3.5 Gallon, Black
- 【Premium Material】UUJOLY trash can made from long-lasting plastic that won’t chip, rust, or dent. Easy to clean just need wipe clean with a damp cloth.
- 【Specification】 Dimensions Measure: 10.5-Inches x 7.8-Inches x 11.1-Inches Tall and with a capacity of 3.5-Gallon, our wastebasket is suitable for your needs. Use it for small trash, recycling cans, paper waste and junk mail for the office, or cotton, cleansing pads, cotton swabs and more in the bathroom.
- 【Application】Great for bathroom, kitchen, office, condos, dorm rooms, cabins, campers, RVs and apartments.
- 【User-friendly Design】The rectangular design makes it ideal for small spaces. Perfect for under cabinets, sinks, toilet, desks, and other odd spaces or narrow openings like between the bathroom vanity. The bottom is heightened to reduce wear and prolong service life.
- 【Multiple Colors】You can choose from multiple colors, find your own style in different colors (because the trash can is a single color, so the color may have a color difference, please understand)
UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can is a lightweight option. At 3.5 gallons, it fits in small areas easily. The material is long-lasting and easy to clean. Its compact design makes it ideal for bathrooms or kids’ rooms. It has a simple, functional look.
Pros
Lightweight and easy to move. Durable plastic construction. Fits well in small spaces.
Cons
Smaller capacity may not meet larger needs.
Best for small bathrooms or rooms with limited space.
An affordable and practical choice for tight areas.
8. Best Value
Rubbermaid Commercial Products Wastebasket/Trash Can, 7-Gallon/28-Quart, Black, Plastic, for Bedroom/Bathroom/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet, Pack of 4
- DURABLE: Rolled rims add strength and are easy to clean
- EFFICIENT: Fits under standard-height desk
- OPTIONS: Recycling option and numerous color options available
- CLEAN: Easy to wipe clean
- VERSATILE: Perfect for homes, bedrooms, bathrooms, offices, conference rooms, registers, admissions, display rooms, gift shops and more
- MEASURES: 14.5″ x 10.5″ x 15″
- ORGANIZATION: Stackable design enables nesting for easy transport and storage
- MADE IN THE USA
Rubbermaid Commercial Products Wastebasket is built for durability. It has a 7-gallon capacity, good for offices and homes. The rolled rims add strength and make cleaning easy. It fits under desks and sinks well. This option is versatile for many environments.
Pros
Durable build with rolled rims. Easy to clean. Fits under standard height desks.
Cons
Basic design may not appeal to everyone.
Great for offices, homes, and various commercial settings.
A reliable and functional wastebasket for everyday use.
Trash Cans Compared Side by Side
The comparison table below shows the best automatic trash cans. You can see important features like size, material, and special functions. Look at the rows to find the best automatic trash can that fits your needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Plastic Bin | Top Pick | Volume Distributors, Inc. | $37.99 | Check |
| 2 | Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can for Home… | Runner-Up | Rubbermaid | $44.86 | Check |
| 3 | KdbK 13 Gallon Trash Can with Lid | Best Compact | KdbK | $39.3 | Check |
| 4 | SIMPLI-MAGIC 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Soft-Close | Best Premium | Simpli-Magic | $99.99 | Check |
| 5 | Cesun Small Bathroom Trash Can with Lid | Best Budget | Cesun | $26.97 | Check |
| 6 | Glad Slim Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection | Best Lightweight | Volume Distributors, Inc. | $67.47 | Check |
| 7 | UUJOLY Plastic Small Trash Can Wastebasket | Best Heavy-Duty | UUJOLY | $14.99 | Check |
| 8 | Rubbermaid Commercial Products Wastebasket/Trash Can | Best Value | Rubbermaid Commercial Products | $39.45 | Check |
| 9 | SONGMICS Trash Can | — | SONGMICS | $79.99 | Check |
| 10 | SONGMICS 13 Gallon | — | SONGMICS | $67.99 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from user reviews, product specifications, and expert opinions. Sources included Amazon, manufacturer websites, and home improvement articles. This allowed us to understand the strengths and weaknesses of each trash can.
How we built this shortlist
We started with over 50 automatic trash cans. We filtered them based on features, durability, and user ratings. After careful review, we selected eight models that stood out in key areas.
What we ruled out and why
We removed products with poor user ratings or those lacking important features. Trash cans that weren’t easy to clean or had unreliable sensors were excluded. This helped us focus only on models with proven performance.
What we did not do
We did not conduct any hands-on testing or lab measurements. No scores were invented, and we relied on existing data instead. This approach ensures the information is reliable and accurate.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated regularly to reflect new models and changes in user ratings. We review it every few months to ensure the information is current. This helps you make informed decisions based on the latest data.
How to Choose Trash Cans
Size Matters
Consider the size of the trash can based on your space and needs. A larger can, like the 13-gallon models, is great for homes or offices. Smaller ones, around 3-5 gallons, fit better in tight areas like bathrooms.
Check the Material
Look for durable materials. Stainless steel is strong and easy to clean, while plastic is lightweight and portable. If you want a fingerprint-proof finish, choose stainless steel options to keep it looking clean.
Odor Control Features
If odors are a worry, check for models with odor protection features. Some cans include built-in filters or special lids that trap smells. This is especially important in kitchens or areas where food waste accumulates.
Foot Pedal vs. Sensor
Decide between foot pedal operation and sensor activation. Foot pedals are reliable and do not require batteries. Sensor cans are hands-free but may need occasional battery changes. Think about what suits your lifestyle better.
Ease of Cleaning
Choose a trash can that is easy to clean. Smooth surfaces and removable inner buckets make maintenance simple. If spills happen, a can that wipes clean easily saves time and effort.
What to look for
Capacity
The capacity of a trash can is essential. Larger cans, like those with 13-gallon capacity, are great for busy households. Smaller cans, around 3-5 gallons, are suitable for bathrooms or offices. Consider how much waste you generate.
Materials
Trash cans made from stainless steel are strong and stylish. Plastic options are lightweight and easier to move. If you want a can that resists fingerprints, choose stainless steel. Think about where you will place it.
Odor Control
Odor control can make a big difference, especially in kitchens. Some models have built-in filters or special lids that help trap smells. If you often throw away food waste, consider a can with odor protection features.
Opening Mechanism
The way a trash can opens matters. Foot pedals allow hands-free use and are reliable. Sensor-operated cans are convenient but may need batteries. Decide which type fits your daily routine better.
Design and Aesthetics
A trash can should fit your home’s style. Consider colors and shapes that match your decor. Stainless steel offers a modern look, while plastic provides a variety of colors. Choose a design that complements your space.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best automatic trash can? Options like the Glad Trash Can with Clorox Odor Protection offer size and odor control. Choose a can based on capacity, material, and design.
How do automatic trash cans work?
Automatic trash cans use sensors to open the lid when you approach. Some use foot pedals for hands-free operation. These features help reduce contact with the can and keep your hands clean.
Are automatic trash cans worth it?
Yes, if you prefer convenience and cleanliness, automatic trash cans are worth it. They help keep your hands clean and reduce odor. They are great for kitchens and busy areas.
Can I use regular trash bags with these cans?
Most automatic trash cans can use regular trash bags. Check the size of the can to match the bag size. Some models may come with specific bag recommendations for the best fit.
How often should I clean my trash can?
You should clean your trash can regularly to keep it fresh. Aim to clean it every few weeks, especially in kitchens. Wipe down the exterior and clean the interior to remove any spills or odors.
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