10 Best Garbage Cans for 2026 That’ll Keep Your Home Fresh
You’ve probably never given much thought to your trash can—until it starts leaking, smelling up your kitchen, or requiring both hands to open while you’re juggling dinner scraps. The right garbage can does more than just hold waste; it controls odors, operates quietly, and fits seamlessly into your space. Whether you’re dealing with a cramped apartment or a busy family kitchen, these ten options will transform how you handle your household waste.
Table of Contents
Quick Overview
- Slim designs like the Glad 13-gallon can fit tight spaces with an 18″ × 14.7″ footprint while maintaining 50-liter capacity.
- Touchless sensors and foot pedals enable hands-free operation, preventing germ spread and maintaining hygiene in your kitchen.
- Clorox Odor Protection and sealed lids effectively neutralize odors, keeping your home smelling fresh between trash removals.
- Soft-close and slow-close lids operate quietly, eliminating loud slamming noises during daily use throughout your home.
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel exteriors require minimal cleaning while resisting smudges, rust, and dents for lasting durability.
| Glad 13 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Lid |  | Best Odor Control | Capacity: 13 gallon / 50 liter | Opening Mechanism: Step-on foot pedal | Material/Finish: Matte black exterior | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Amazon Basics Stainless Steel Trash Can 50L |  | Best Overall | Capacity: 13.2 gallon / 50 liter | Opening Mechanism: Manual foot pedal | Material/Finish: Brushed stainless steel, satin nickel | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| 8 Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can |  | Most Compact | Capacity: 8 gallon / 30 liter | Opening Mechanism: Foot pedal | Material/Finish: Stainless steel | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Rubbermaid Commercial 41QT Stackable Plastic Wastebasket Black |  | Budget-Friendly Pick | Capacity: 10.25 gallon / 41 quart | Opening Mechanism: Manual (no pedal/sensor) | Material/Finish: Durable plastic, black | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Amazon Basics Stainless Steel Trash Can 30L |  | Best For Small Spaces | Capacity: 7.9 gallon / 30 liter | Opening Mechanism: Manual foot pedal | Material/Finish: Brushed stainless steel, satin nickel | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Rubbermaid 7-Gallon Plastic Wastebasket (Pack of 4) |  | Best Value Pack | Capacity: 7 gallon / 28 quart (pack of 4) | Opening Mechanism: Manual (no pedal/sensor) | Material/Finish: All-plastic construction, black | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| BestOffice 13 Gallon Automatic Touchless Trash Can |  | Most Advanced | Capacity: 13 gallon / 50 liter | Opening Mechanism: Automatic infrared motion sensor | Material/Finish: Premium stainless steel, brushed finish | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Glad 13 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Pedal |  | Editor’s Choice | Capacity: 13 gallon / 50 liter | Opening Mechanism: Step-on foot pedal | Material/Finish: Matte black | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| EKO Mirage-T 50L Touchless Motion Sensor Trash Can |  | Premium Pick | Capacity: 13.2 gallon / 50 liter | Opening Mechanism: Motion sensor touchless | Material/Finish: Brushed stainless steel, fingerprint-resistant | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Rubbermaid Premier Step-On Trash Can 12.4 Gallon |  | Best Durability | Capacity: 12.4-13 gallon | Opening Mechanism: Step-on foot pedal | Material/Finish: Resin with stainless-steel accents, charcoal/black | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Glad 13 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Lid
If you’re working with limited floor space but need reliable waste management, the Glad 13 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Lid delivers a slim 18″ × 14.7″ footprint that won’t dominate your kitchen, office, or dorm room. The matte black exterior complements modern décor while standing 25″ tall with 50-liter capacity.
You’ll appreciate the step-on foot pedal for touchless operation and the soft-close lid that shuts gently. Clorox Odor Protection actively inhibits unwanted smells, keeping spaces fresh. Integrated bag rings secure your trash bags, preventing them from slipping into the bottom and maintaining a clean interior appearance.
- Capacity:13 gallon / 50 liter
- Opening Mechanism:Step-on foot pedal
- Material/Finish:Matte black exterior
- Lid Type:Soft-close lid
- Dimensions (H):25 inches tall
- Special Features:Clorox Odor Protection, integrated bag rings
- Additional Feature:Clorox Odor Protection
- Additional Feature:Integrated bag rings
- Additional Feature:Slim rectangular profile
Amazon Basics Stainless Steel Trash Can 50L
The Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can stands out as the best choice for budget-conscious shoppers who refuse to compromise on quality or aesthetics. This 50-liter model features a brushed stainless steel exterior with a satin nickel finish that resists smudges and fingerprints. You’ll appreciate the manual foot pedal operation paired with a soft-close lid that prevents slamming.
The stay-open feature makes loading trash effortless, while the removable inner bucket with carry handle simplifies disposal. At 25.9 inches tall, it’s perfectly sized for kitchens or offices, combining durability with practical convenience at an unbeatable price point.
- Capacity:13.2 gallon / 50 liter
- Opening Mechanism:Manual foot pedal
- Material/Finish:Brushed stainless steel, satin nickel
- Lid Type:Soft-close lid with stay-open option
- Dimensions (H):25.9 inches tall
- Special Features:Removable inner bucket with carry handle
- Additional Feature:Removable inner bucket
- Additional Feature:Stay-open lid option
- Additional Feature:Carry handle included
8 Gallon Stainless Steel Step Trash Can
Looking for a trash can that won’t announce itself every time the lid closes? This 8-gallon stainless steel step can delivers whisper-quiet operation with its soft-close lid. You’ll appreciate the foot pedal that keeps your hands free while tossing trash. The heavy-duty steel construction resists scratches, dents, and stains—outlasting cheaper plastic alternatives.
Its square design fits perfectly in corners, maximizing your limited space while holding 30 liters of waste. Though it lacks an inner bucket, the compact footprint makes it ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, offices, or apartments where every inch counts.
- Capacity:8 gallon / 30 liter
- Opening Mechanism:Foot pedal
- Material/Finish:Stainless steel
- Lid Type:Soft-close lid
- Dimensions (H):Not specified (30L capacity)
- Special Features:No inner bucket design, space-saving square
- Additional Feature:No inner bucket
- Additional Feature:Compact footprint design
- Additional Feature:Scratch-resistant stainless steel
Rubbermaid Commercial 41QT Stackable Plastic Wastebasket Black
For office managers seeking a durable waste solution that won’t sacrifice desk space, the Rubbermaid Commercial 41QT Stackable Plastic Wastebasket delivers professional-grade performance at an economical price point. Its 10.25-gallon capacity fits perfectly under standard-height desks while maintaining durability that won’t chip, rust, or dent.
You’ll appreciate the smooth resin construction and rolled rims that make cleaning effortless. The stackable design allows you to nest multiple units for convenient storage and transport. Whether you’re outfitting conference rooms, admissions areas, or gift shops, this American-made wastebasket offers versatile functionality with multiple color options for easy recycling program implementation throughout your facility.
- Capacity:10.25 gallon / 41 quart
- Opening Mechanism:Manual (no pedal/sensor)
- Material/Finish:Durable plastic, black
- Lid Type:No lid
- Dimensions (H):Fits under standard-height desk
- Special Features:Stackable design, made in USA
- Additional Feature:Fits under desk
- Additional Feature:Stackable nesting design
- Additional Feature:Made in USA
Amazon Basics Stainless Steel Trash Can 30L
The Amazon Basics 30L trash can features a smudge-resistant stainless steel exterior with a satin nickel finish that maintains its appearance despite frequent use. Its hands-free foot pedal opens the lid without contact, while the soft-close mechanism ensures ultra-quiet closing that prevents disruptive banging. The 7.9-gallon capacity makes it ideal for kitchens and offices.
The removable plastic inner bucket includes a carry handle for simplified trash removal, and the stay-open lid option proves helpful when disposing of multiple items. This combination of quiet operation and low-maintenance design makes it a practical solution for high-traffic areas.
- Capacity:7.9 gallon / 30 liter
- Opening Mechanism:Manual foot pedal
- Material/Finish:Brushed stainless steel, satin nickel
- Lid Type:Soft-close lid with stay-open option
- Dimensions (H):25 inches tall
- Special Features:Removable inner bucket with carry handle, smudge-resistant
- Additional Feature:Ultra-quiet operation
- Additional Feature:Removable inner bucket
- Additional Feature:Carry handle included
Rubbermaid 7-Gallon Plastic Wastebasket (Pack of 4)
The Rubbermaid 7-Gallon Plastic Wastebasket stands out as an ideal choice if you’re managing multiple spaces that need consistent, reliable waste disposal. This four-pack delivers exceptional value for offices, bedrooms, and bathrooms. The all-plastic construction won’t chip, rust, or dent, while rolled rims add strength and simplify cleaning.
At 14.5 x 10.5 x 15 inches, each bin fits perfectly under standard desks, sinks, and cabinets. You’ll appreciate the stackable design that makes storage effortless when not in use. Made in the USA, these 28-quart containers work equally well for trash or recycling needs throughout your home or workplace.
- Capacity:7 gallon / 28 quart (pack of 4)
- Opening Mechanism:Manual (no pedal/sensor)
- Material/Finish:All-plastic construction, black
- Lid Type:No lid
- Dimensions (H):15 inches tall
- Special Features:Stackable design, made in USA, pack of 4
- Additional Feature:Pack of 4
- Additional Feature:Space-efficient deskside design
- Additional Feature:Stackable nesting design
BestOffice 13 Gallon Automatic Touchless Trash Can
If you’re tired of touching grimy trash can lids after handling raw chicken or dirty diapers, the BestOffice 13 Gallon Automatic Touchless Trash Can offers a hygienic solution. Its automatic infrared sensor opens the lid when your hand comes within 6 inches, eliminating contact entirely. The premium stainless steel construction features a fingerprint-resistant brushed finish that’s easy to maintain with a dry towel.
With its modern oval shape and sloping lid, it fits neatly against walls and in corners throughout your kitchen, bathroom, or office. Four C-cell batteries power over 40,000 openings, while the sealed lid effectively reduces odors for a truly noiseless, sanitary trash experience.
- Capacity:13 gallon / 50 liter
- Opening Mechanism:Automatic infrared motion sensor
- Material/Finish:Premium stainless steel, brushed finish
- Lid Type:Automatic sensor lid
- Dimensions (H):Not specified (13 gallon)
- Special Features:Touchless operation, fingerprint-resistant, supports 40,000+ openings
- Additional Feature:Infrared sensor technology
- Additional Feature:40,000+ openings supported
- Additional Feature:Battery powered operation
Glad 13 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Pedal
Looking for a trash can that keeps kitchen odors at bay while maintaining a sleek appearance? The Glad Premium 13 Gallon Trash Can delivers both functionality and style. Its integrated Clorox Odor Protection eliminates smells for the can’s lifetime, while the matte black finish complements any kitchen décor.
You’ll appreciate the stainless steel foot pedal, redesigned for exceptional durability and hands-free operation. The 50-liter rectangular design (18″ W × 14.7″ D × 25″ H) fits perfectly in most spaces, with interior bag rings that secure your trash bag and tuck away excess slack for a crisp look.
- Capacity:13 gallon / 50 liter
- Opening Mechanism:Step-on foot pedal
- Material/Finish:Matte black
- Lid Type:Standard lid
- Dimensions (H):25 inches tall
- Special Features:Clorox Odor Protection, interior bag rings
- Additional Feature:Clorox Odor Protection
- Additional Feature:Interior bag rings
- Additional Feature:Redesigned stainless pedal
EKO Mirage-T 50L Touchless Motion Sensor Trash Can
Boasting a premium motion sensor and fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish, the EKO Mirage-T 50L proves ideal for households seeking a hands-free waste solution that maintains a sleek appearance in high-traffic kitchens. Its 50-liter capacity accommodates standard 13-gallon bags without requiring expensive designer liners, while the no-liner design maximizes internal space, delivering 25% more usable capacity than traditional models.
You’ll appreciate the soft-close lid that operates quietly, while the touch switch holds it open during meal prep cleanups. The rectangular shape sits flush against walls, and the removable inner rim keeps bags hidden. AA batteries power the unit for up to eight months under normal use.
- Capacity:13.2 gallon / 50 liter
- Opening Mechanism:Motion sensor touchless
- Material/Finish:Brushed stainless steel, fingerprint-resistant
- Lid Type:Soft-close lid with touch switch stay-open
- Dimensions (H):24.6 inches tall (36 inches with lid open)
- Special Features:Motion sensor, removable inner rim, 25% more capacity (no-liner design)
- Additional Feature:25% more capacity
- Additional Feature:Removable inner rim
- Additional Feature:8-month battery life
Rubbermaid Premier Step-On Trash Can 12.4 Gallon
The Rubbermaid Premier Series III Step-On Trash Can delivers a quiet, hands-free experience for households seeking a durable 12.4-gallon solution that won’t wake sleeping babies or startle pets. Its slow-close lid prevents slamming, while the discrete lid lock lets you prop it open during meal prep or secure it against curious toddlers and pets.
You’ll appreciate the LinerLock technology that grips bags firmly under the charcoal stainless-steel rim, eliminating slips and hiding unsightly overhang. Interior venting channels make lifting heavy bags effortless, and the fingerprint-resistant finish maintains a polished look in kitchens, offices, or garages without constant wiping.
- Capacity:12.4-13 gallon
- Opening Mechanism:Step-on foot pedal
- Material/Finish:Resin with stainless-steel accents, charcoal/black
- Lid Type:Slow-close lid with lock
- Dimensions (H):24.63 inches tall
- Special Features:LinerLock technology, venting channels, lid lock
- Additional Feature:LinerLock technology
- Additional Feature:Interior venting channels
- Additional Feature:Flared anti-slide base
Factors to Consider When Choosing Garbage Cans
When you’re shopping for a garbage can in 2026, you’ll need to evaluate several key features to find the right match for your space. Consider how much waste you generate daily, which operating mechanism works best for your household, and what odor control technology you’ll need. You’ll also want to assess the material’s durability, how the lid closes, and whether these features align with your budget and lifestyle.
Capacity and Size Requirements
Selecting the right garbage can starts with understanding your household’s waste output and available space. A single person typically needs a 10-13 gallon kitchen bin, while families of four or more should consider 20-30 gallon options to avoid frequent emptying. Measure your designated garbage can area before purchasing, accounting for lid clearance if placing it under cabinets or in tight corners. Kitchen cans generally range from 8-20 gallons, bathroom bins work well at 1-3 gallons, and outdoor containers need 30-50 gallon capacities.
Consider your trash collection schedule when determining capacity. If pickup occurs weekly, you’ll need larger capacity than with twice-weekly service. Dual-compartment models maximize space efficiency when managing both trash and recycling simultaneously.
Operating Mechanism Options
Modern garbage cans offer three primary operating mechanisms: manual foot pedals, automatic motion sensors, and traditional lift lids. Step-on foot pedals provide convenient hands-free operation, letting you open and close the lid while carrying items or handling messy tasks. Motion sensor technology takes hygiene further by eliminating all physical contact, making it ideal for kitchens and offices where cleanliness matters most.
When selecting your mechanism, consider soft-close features that prevent loud slamming noises—particularly valuable in quiet environments or homes with light sleepers. Touchless options prove especially practical in high-traffic areas where multiple users access the bin throughout the day. Your choice should align with your household’s traffic patterns and hygiene priorities.
Odor Control Features
Odor control stands as one of the most critical factors in choosing a garbage can, directly impacting your comfort and home environment. Look for cans with integrated antimicrobial linings or activated carbon filters that actively minimize unpleasant smells. Some lids feature built-in odor-inhibiting technology infused with disinfecting agents to prevent odor spread. An airtight lid design creates a secure seal that contains odors within the container, while proper ventilation systems or perforated liners promote airflow, reducing smell buildup without releasing odors into your space.
Remember that even the best odor-control features won’t replace regular cleaning and maintenance. Leftover food and waste quickly generate foul smells if you don’t address them promptly, so establish a consistent cleaning routine for ideal results.
Material and Durability
The material you choose for your garbage can determines how long it’ll serve you and how well it’ll hold up to daily wear and tear. Stainless steel offers exceptional durability and scratch resistance, making it ideal for heavy usage. If you’re budget-conscious, plastic cans provide affordability and color variety, though they’re more prone to cracking. Resin-based options strike a balance between durability and aesthetics with their smooth, smudge-resistant finish.
Metal cans made from galvanized steel deliver rust-resistant, long-lasting performance but come at a higher price point. Regardless of which material you select, pay attention to thickness and construction quality—these factors substantially impact your can’s lifespan.
Lid Closure Systems
When selecting a garbage can, you’ll find that lid closure systems vastly affect both convenience and hygiene in your daily routine. Soft-close lids gently shut to reduce noise and slamming, making them ideal for quiet spaces like offices or bedrooms. For hands-free operation, you’ve got two excellent options: step-on foot pedals work perfectly in kitchens or bathrooms, while motion-activated sensors automatically open when your hands approach. Both features maintain hygiene by eliminating surface contact.
If you frequently dispose of trash, stay-open lid options keep your can accessible without constant reopening. However, if you’ve got pets or small children at home, lid locks provide essential security by preventing unwanted access. Consider which features align with your household’s specific needs and high-traffic areas.
Space and Placement Considerations
Before purchasing a garbage can, you’ll need to measure your available space carefully—height, width, and depth all matter when determining the right fit. This guarantees your can won’t overwhelm the area or create obstacles. For tight spaces like corners or under counters, slim rectangular designs work best. They maximize vertical space while minimizing their footprint. If you’re working with limited room, choose a smaller capacity can rather than cramming in an oversized model that’ll dominate the space.
Consider foot traffic patterns too. Your garbage can shouldn’t obstruct pathways or create awkward navigation challenges. Place it where it’s easily accessible but out of the main flow of movement. A well-positioned can blends seamlessly into your space while remaining functional and convenient for daily use.
Bag Compatibility and Management
Once you’ve determined where your garbage can will go, you’ll need to match it with the right bags. Start by verifying the can accommodates standard-sized trash bags—mismatched sizes create wasted space or make securing bags difficult. Look for integrated features like bag rings or clips that keep bags firmly in place and prevent them from slipping into the can. Models with dedicated bag storage compartments help maintain a tidy appearance by concealing excess material.
Opt for designs with removable inner liners or buckets that simplify bag changes, eliminating the hassle of wrestling bags out of tight spaces. Finally, guarantee the can’s capacity matches your household’s waste volume. Choosing adequate size reduces how frequently you’ll change bags, saving time and reducing waste.
Budget and Value
Setting a realistic budget starts with understanding what you’re willing to spend versus what features matter most. Consider long-term durability and maintenance requirements—they’ll reveal the true cost of ownership beyond the initial price tag. Balance your budget with essential features like capacity, material quality, and design functionality. A cheaper can that breaks quickly costs more than a durable option upfront.
Compare prices across multiple retailers, both online and in-store, to find the best deals on quality models. Don’t overlook seasonal sales and discount codes. Check warranty and return policies before purchasing—these protections guarantee your investment’s covered if issues arise. A thorough warranty often indicates manufacturer confidence in their product’s longevity, making it worth any additional cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Replace My Garbage Can?
You should replace your garbage can every 5-10 years, depending on its condition. If you notice cracks, persistent odors that won’t clean out, or broken parts, it’s time to get a new one sooner.
Can Garbage Cans Be Recycled When No Longer Usable?
Yes, you can recycle most garbage cans when they’ve reached the end of their journey. Check your bin’s recycling number (usually on the bottom), then contact your local recycling center to confirm they’ll accept it.
What’s the Best Way to Remove Stubborn Odors From Trash Cans?
You’ll want to scrub your trash can with baking soda and white vinegar, then let it sit for several hours. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely in sunlight, which naturally eliminates lingering odors.
Are Trash Can Liners Universal or Do I Need Specific Sizes?
Trash can liners aren’t universal—you’ll need specific sizes. Imagine ripping through three bags before finding one that fits your new kitchen can. Measure your can’s gallon capacity and dimensions, then buy matching liners to avoid frustrating waste and mess.
How Do I Prevent My Outdoor Garbage Can From Attracting Animals?
You’ll prevent animals by securing your can’s lid with bungee cords or locks, storing it in a garage until pickup day, sprinkling ammonia around it, and avoiding putting food waste out too early before collection.
