The Best Trash Cans of 2024

When it comes to performance and quality in the 'Best Overall' category, the simplehuman 12 Gallon Step Trash Can truly stands out. One of its most remarkable features is the stainless steel liner rim, which not only facilitates quick and easy liner changes but also ensures that the liner stays securely in place, neatly hidden from view. This feature enhances both the functionality and the aesthetic appeal of the trash can.

Moreover, the liner pocket design is a thoughtful addition, allowing you to dispense liners directly from inside the can. This smart design eliminates the fuss of dealing with perforations or unrolling issues, making liner replacement a breeze. The can also boasts a cleaner stainless steel finish, thanks to its invisible silver-ion coating, which effectively resists fingerprints and the spread of germs while maintaining its shiny appearance.

The strong, wide steel pedal is engineered for durability, promising up to 150,000 steps, and the silent close lid adds a touch of serenity to your kitchen environment, ensuring that functionality is not compromised by noise. While it may have some standard features, its thoughtful design and sturdy build set it apart in the realm of kitchen essentials.

The iTouchless 13 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can stands out as a top contender in the 'Best Touchless' category, primarily due to its impressive blend of functionality and modern design. Its standout feature is the 100% touchless operation, which ensures a hygienic environment by minimizing contact with potentially germ-ridden surfaces. This makes it an ideal choice for busy kitchens or households with young children.

What really sets this trash can apart is its advanced odor control system. Equipped with an AbsorbX Odor Filter, it effectively neutralizes unpleasant smells, maintaining a fresh atmosphere in your home. Additionally, the trash can's sleek, fingerprint-proof stainless steel body enhances its aesthetic appeal, making it a stylish complement to any kitchen décor.

Though the reliance on batteries could be seen as an average aspect, the can's versatile power options and extended battery life more than compensate, offering long-lasting use. Overall, the iTouchless trash can merges practicality, efficiency, and elegance flawlessly.

The Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can shines in the 'Best Large Sized' category primarily due to its impressive 20-gallon capacity. This larger size, fitting 50% more waste than the standard 13-gallon cans, means significantly fewer trips to dispose of garbage—an invaluable feature for big families or anyone who dislikes frequent trash-taking duties.

A notable aspect of this trash can is its odor protection feature. By effectively blocking and trapping unwanted odors, it keeps your kitchen smelling fresh, a crucial advantage in busy households. Additionally, the convenient rear trash bag compartment allows for easy access to extra bags without the hassle of moving the can.

This trash can also boasts a fingerprint-resistant exterior, which helps maintain a clean appearance. The bag rings securely hold the trash bag in place, eliminating the need for a liner. Meanwhile, the soft-close lid with a step pedal enhances usability, offering a hands-free and silent operation that is friendly to both users and their ears.

The simplehuman 15.3 Gallon Step Trash Can is a top contender in the 'Best For Recycling' category thanks to its thoughtful design and functionality. Its dual compartment system is particularly noteworthy, allowing for straightforward separation of trash and recyclables. This feature caters directly to those who prioritize effective waste management at home.

A standout aspect is the stainless steel liner rim, which not only ensures a neat and secure liner change but also keeps the liner discreetly hidden. Coupled with the innovative liner pocket, the process of changing liners becomes remarkably efficient, as liners are dispensed smoothly without perforations or unraveling.

Another impressive feature is its stainless steel material with an invisible silver-ion coating, which minimizes fingerprints and resists germs, keeping the trash can looking pristine. The strong, wide steel pedal is engineered for durability, promising reliable performance for years. Although the price might be on the higher side, the convenience and longevity make it a worthwhile investment.

In the bustling environment of an office, a reliable trash can is crucial for maintaining cleanliness and efficiency. The simplehuman 16 Gallon Swing Lid Trash Can stands out as an excellent choice for office spaces, primarily due to its robust design and convenience features. The center-weighted swing lid is particularly notable, ensuring it opens easily with a slight push and swings back gently, maintaining a neat appearance and controlling odors effectively, which is essential in a shared workspace.

Its large capacity, coupled with heavy-duty commercial-grade hinges, makes it ideal not only for offices but also for more demanding environments like coffee shops or restaurants. The quick-release feature of the swing lid is a practical touch, allowing for effortless removal and cleaning, ensuring maintenance is hassle-free. With convenient side handles, moving the trash can for cleaning or repositioning is a breeze.

Additionally, the extra-strong, custom-fit liners enhance the overall user experience by preventing messes, ensuring a cleaner, more pleasant environment. While its design might be considered average in terms of aesthetics, the emphasis on durability and functionality, supported by a reassuring 5-year warranty, underlines its suitability for high-traffic areas like offices.

The Full Circle Kitchen Compost Bin is a standout choice in the 'Best For Composting' category due to its innovative and thoughtful design. Its patented system promotes air circulation, significantly reducing unpleasant odors and attracting fewer pesky flies—a game-changer for those who might hesitate to keep compost indoors.

Convenience is a key feature, with its easy-to-open lid that operates with a simple push of a button, ensuring fuss-free compost disposal. Cleaning is a breeze, thanks to its smooth surfaces, which help prevent a buildup of residue, making the entire process much more manageable and less messy.

Its compact 1.5-gallon size is ideal for both home and office environments, providing ample space for organic waste while maintaining a low-profile presence. The inclusion of five compostable bags gets users started right away without additional purchases. Constructed from recycled plastic and partially recycled steel, this bin is not only functional but also aligns with eco-friendly living practices, which is a pleasing bonus for environmentally conscious users.

The Rubbermaid Step-On Trash Can is a standout performer in the budget-friendly category, offering a blend of innovation and practicality. Its unique mechanism, which allows the lid to remain open without needing to keep the pedal pressed, is a game-changer for those who seek convenience in kitchen chores. This foot-free operation is perfect for busy households, ensuring ease of use during meal prep or cleanup.

With its contemporary design, the trash can easily slips into narrow spaces, making it an ideal choice for kitchens with limited room. The sleek look keeps it visually appealing without compromising on functionality. Built with durable materials, it offers hassle-free maintenance and promises longevity, a crucial factor for budget-conscious buyers.

While it may not have the high-tech features of more expensive models, its practical design and the ease of use make it a dependable choice. Proudly made in the USA, it’s a reliable addition to any home.