The 8 Best Trash Cans in 2026

This simplehuman 12 gal semi-round sensor can fits the Best Overall spot because it makes daily trash duty mostly hands-free. The touchless lid opens with a quick sensor response, so you do not have to touch a dirty lid when your hands are full.

Build quality feels solid, with a sturdy frame that stays stable and does not wobble when you press the lid. The pedal and lid action are smooth, and the stainless steel body is easy to wipe clean. It also does a good job at containing smells thanks to a lid that closes firmly and consistently.

The trade-off is that the liner system uses proprietary bags, so replacements are less flexible. Also, the cooking lid-angle can be limiting for wider items. If you want a durable, hands-free 12 gal can for a busy kitchen, this is the one to get.

If you want a dual-compartment setup for trash and recycling, this Brabantia Bo Touch model fits the role well thanks to its touchless sensor lid. You can open the lid without touching it, which helps when your hands are busy or messy. The rectangular layout keeps the compartments easy to use side by side for everyday sorting.

Build quality feels solid, with a sturdy frame that does not wobble when you open it. The pedal action is smooth, and the sealing gasket helps lock in smells. For day-to-day use, it is straightforward to keep clean since the lid surfaces wipe down easily.

The main drawback is that it is heavy and bulky, so moving it for cleaning or restocking liners takes more effort. If you need a dependable two-bin system with touchless opening and good odor control, this is a strong pick for kitchens that can accommodate its size.

For a Best Step-On Pedal pick, this simplehuman semi-round 13 gal can nails the hands-free part. The steel pedal opens the lid smoothly, and the lid closes with a tight, consistent seal.

In daily use, the sturdy frame helps it stay stable instead of wobbling when you press the pedal. The opening and closing action feels reliable, and the sealing gasket helps keep odors contained. The footprint is also practical for a kitchen, with a narrow, semi-round shape that fits better in corners than many fully round bins.

The trade-off is that it is heavy at 16.5 lb, so moving it for deep cleaning takes more effort. It also uses proprietary liners, and odor control depends on buying the right replacement bags and keeping the gasket clean. If you want a durable, pedal-operated stainless can with strong lid sealing and you do not mind proprietary liners, this is the one to get.

This Rubbermaid BRUTE 32 gal can fits the Best Large Capacity slot thanks to its big 32-gallon size. It is made for households and workplaces that fill liners fast, without needing frequent emptying. The round resin body keeps the overall footprint straightforward, even when the can is nearly full.

Build quality is a standout. The resin construction feels sturdy, and the base stays stable when the lid opens. Day-to-day use is also smooth, with a pedal that operates without sticking. Cleaning is simple too, since the lid and sides wipe down easily after messy loads.

The main downside is placement. At 25 x 22.4 x 28.6 in, it can feel awkward in tight kitchens or narrow corners, and there are reports of occasional missing lid issues. If you want a large, durable pedal-can for heavy trash days and you have room to set it where it fits, this is the one to get.

This simplehuman slim 13.2 gal open top can fits the Best Open Top role because it skips a lid and keeps waste easy to drop in. It is a narrow stainless steel can, made for kitchens where floor space matters and you want fast, one-handed use.

The build feels solid, with a sturdy frame that does not wobble when you empty it. The pedal action is smooth, and the can is simple to live with day to day since the opening stays wide and uncovered. Its slim shape also helps it tuck into corners without taking over the room.

The trade-off is odor control. With no lid, smells can escape more easily than in closed-top bins, and it is also heavy and bulky to move. If you want a durable, slim open bin for quick disposal and easy bag access, this is a good match.

Built for the Best for Wall Mount role, this EKO stainless can uses a touchless sensor lid and mounts to the wall. That hands-free opening helps when your hands are messy, and the wall layout keeps the footprint out of your way. With its rectangular form, it also fits well beside common kitchen and bath storage zones.

Build quality is a standout. The stainless steel body feels solid, and the frame stays stable with regular use. Day-to-day convenience also lands well, since the sensor lid makes it easy to drop waste in without touching the top. It is also a practical size at 13.2 gal, large enough for steady use without constant emptying.

The main drawback is reliability, with reports of early sensor failure. There is also some risk of shipping damage, since the unit can arrive with dents. If you want a wall-mounted, touchless stainless steel can and you are okay troubleshooting sensor issues quickly, this is a good match.

This 13 gal Ninestars can fits the Best Lightweight role because it combines a touchless lid with a manageable footprint and a low total weight of 6.8 lb. The hands-free sensor is the standout for kitchens where you want quick access without pushing the lid with dirty hands.

Day to day, the pedal-like opening feels smooth, and the lid action stays consistent once you get used to the sensor. It also uses a durable stainless steel body that should hold up to daily use, and the size works well for common under-counter and corner placements while still giving enough room for a larger bag.

One downside is that some units can arrive with shipping dents, which can matter if you want a clean, new look. If you want a lighter stainless steel trash can with touchless operation and easy everyday handling, this is a solid pick.

This slim under-cabinet can is a strong fit for the Best Value spot because it keeps a lot of everyday waste in a small footprint. At 1.25 gal, it is sized for daily kitchen use without taking over counter space. The swing-top lid also keeps things simple when you toss in scraps.

Build feels steady for a plastic can, and it is light enough to install and adjust, with a weight of 0.6 lb. Day to day, the swing-top action makes it easy to open while cooking. It is also a good capacity match for its size, with dimensions of 7.5 x 12.5 x 7.5 in.

One catch is that some setups may leak odors if the liner fit is not just right. It also requires mounting, and that can add a step before it is usable. If you want a compact under-cabinet bin for regular trash and you are willing to take a few minutes to mount it and fit the liners correctly, this is the one to get.