The 7 Best Trash Cans of 2025

By The Top Zone
Best Trash Cans Spotlight

In the realm of home essentials, the humble trash can often goes unnoticed, yet it plays a crucial role in maintaining the cleanliness and organization of our spaces. Whether nestled away in a kitchen corner, discreetly placed in a bathroom, or standing tall in an office, a good trash can does more than just hold waste; it seamlessly blends function with design. Recognizing this, we're committed to guiding you through the best options available, ensuring your purchase is nothing short of perfect.

Our dedication to providing top-tier recommendations stems from a rigorous process of analyzing thousands of customer reviews and diving deep into product features. We know that the market is flooded with endless choices, each promising superior quality and convenience. That's why our team spends countless hours sifting through feedback, comparing materials, functionality, and design. By doing this, we aim to save you the time and frustration of navigating these options on your own.

Our intention is simple: to empower you with knowledge, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and style. We believe that investing in a high-quality trash can is about more than aesthetics; it's about enhancing your daily life, making tidiness effortless and efficient.

So, whether you're in search of an innovative touchless design, something sleek and stylish, or a compact can for tight spaces, rest assured that we've got you covered. Join us as we unveil our top picks, each tested and vouched for by real users, ensuring practicality, durability, and value. Let's dive in and find the perfect match for your home.

Table of Contents

Out Top Picks

Best Overall

simplehuman 12 Gallon Step Trash Can
Overall Rating
4.7
Brand
simplehuman
Capacity
12 Gallons
Opening Mechanism
Step-On
Dimensions
15.9"L x 13.3"W x 25.8"H
Weight
12.8 Pounds

The simplehuman 12 Gallon Step Trash Can stands out prominently in the 'Best Overall' category due to its thoughtful design and reliable performance. The stainless steel liner rim not only simplifies liner changes but also ensures that liners are held tightly and stay hidden, contributing to a sleek appearance. This makes the simplehuman trash can not only practical but also aesthetically pleasing in any kitchen or office setting.

One of the standout features is the innovative liner pocket. This clever addition allows for the liners to be stored and dispensed effectively — no more unraveling woes. The invisible silver-ion coating on the can's body also deserves praise. By resisting fingerprints and the spread of germs while maintaining a shiny finish, it ensures the trash can remains as spotless as it is functional.

Moreover, the wide steel pedal, engineered to endure over 150,000 steps, and the silent closing lid powered by lid shox technology, add convenience and durability. Although these features are fairly common in other premium models, their seamless integration in the simplehuman can highlights its top-tier engineering, justifying its 'Best Overall' recognition.

Best Touchless

iTouchless 13 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can
Overall Rating
4.5
Brand
iTouchless
Capacity
13 Gallons
Opening Mechanism
Motion-Sensor
Dimensions
12.7"L x 10.8"W x 27.2"H
Weight
8 Pounds

The iTouchless 13 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can takes the spotlight in the 'Best Touchless' category, showcasing a blend of practical features and elegant design. Its motion sensor operation offers a seamless hands-free experience, enhancing hygiene—a crucial consideration for busy kitchens or bustling offices. This trash can actively neutralizes odors with the included AbsorbX Odor Filter, ensuring your space remains inviting and fresh.

Its sleek stainless steel body not only resists fingerprints but also integrates seamlessly into any décor style, marrying form and function. A space-efficient rectangular design makes it a perfect fit for various settings, whether nestled in a corner or standing confidently in a pantry. The trash can surprisingly holds up to 25% more waste due to its smart design, providing convenience with its accommodating 12" opening—ideal for large disposables like pizza boxes.

Though some features like the optional AC Adapter are fairly standard, the trash can’s overall value and utility, such as its dog-proof lid and extended battery life, elevate its reputation.

Best Large Sized

Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can
Overall Rating
4.6
Brand
Glad
Capacity
20 Gallons
Opening Mechanism
Step-On
Dimensions
16"L x 16"W x 29"H
Weight
12.4 Pounds

The Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can truly shines in the 'Best Large Sized' category, especially for households needing a robust waste management solution. Its 20-gallon capacity goes above and beyond the typical 13-gallon can, offering convenience by drastically reducing the frequency of trips to take out the trash. The thoughtful design emphasizes odor control with features that block and trap smells effectively, keeping your kitchen fresh.

The integrated rear trash bag compartment is a game-changer, allowing you to seamlessly dispense bags from the sides without any fuss. This, combined with the fingerprint-resistant finish and handy bag rings, makes keeping things clean and tidy a breeze. Meanwhile, the soft-close mechanism ensures a quiet operation and prevents unwanted lid slams that can disrupt your routine.

Though it's not groundbreaking, the stay-open lid feature is practical, ideal for when your hands are tied up with tasks. Overall, it's a solid investment for large families seeking a stylish and efficient trash solution.

Best For Recycling

simplehuman 15.3 Gallon Step Trash Can
Overall Rating
4.7
Brand
simplehuman
Capacity
15.3 Gallons
Opening Mechanism
Step-On
Dimensions
22"L x 14.2"W x 25.8"H
Weight
21.3 Pounds

The simplehuman 15.3 Gallon Step Trash Can is a standout choice for those who prioritize recycling convenience and efficiency. The dual compartments are a game-changer, allowing easy separation of regular trash from recyclables, making recycling an effortless part of your waste management routine. This design significantly contributes to its top ranking in the Best For Recycling category.

One of its remarkable features is the stainless steel liner rim. It ensures that the liner stays hidden and secure, offering a tidy appearance with minimal effort. The built-in liner pocket simplifies the liner replacement process, sparing you the hassle of dealing with unruly liner rolls.

In terms of durability, the wide steel pedal is built to endure heavy use over decades, a testament to its engineered longevity. While the trash can's silver-ion coating effectively resists fingerprints and germs, keeping it sleek and clean with minimal maintenance, some might find these features standard. Nevertheless, its thoughtful design and recycling-friendly attributes make it an exceptional choice.

Best For Commercial Spaces

simplehuman 16 Gallon Swing Lid Trash Can
Overall Rating
4.6
Brand
simplehuman
Capacity
16 Gallons
Opening Mechanism
Swing-Lid
Dimensions
16.7"L x 5"W x 32.8"H
Weight
7.2 Pounds

The simplehuman 16 Gallon Swing Lid Trash Can shines in commercial environments like coffee shops or restaurants, thanks to its robust build and clever design. One of the standout features is its center-weighted swing lid, which opens effortlessly with a gentle push and smoothly closes on its own, ensuring that the can stays neatly sealed and odors are kept at bay—a crucial benefit in busy public spaces.

Durability is a key selling point, underscored by its heavy-duty commercial-grade hinges, which promise resilience over years of use. The added convenience of quick-release buttons for lid removal simplifies cleaning tasks, a feature that's especially appreciated in high-turnover environments.

The trash can is also user-friendly; it offers convenient side handles for easy relocation, making adaptions in layout hassle-free. Compatibility with extra-strong Code Q custom fit liners enhances the overall cleanliness and user experience, adding to its appeal. While it may not boast an overtly stylish design, its performance more than justifies its presence in bustling commercial spots.

Best For Composting

Full Circle Odor-Free Kitchen Compost Bin
Overall Rating
4.4
Brand
Full Circle
Capacity
1.5 Gallons
Opening Mechanism
Button
Dimensions
9.45"L x 8.86"W x 8.3"H
Weight
0.3 Pounds

The Full Circle Odor-Free Kitchen Compost Bin truly stands out in the 'Best For Composting' category, thanks to its clever design and eco-friendly materials. This bin's patented design allows air to circulate, which significantly reduces unpleasant odors and minimizes the presence of flies. A feature any composting enthusiast can appreciate.

Convenience is at the forefront with the easy-open button mechanism, making it effortlessly accessible even when your hands are full. Additionally, it’s ready to go right out of the box, complete with five compostable bags, ensuring you can start your composting journey immediately without extra purchases.

Cleaning and emptying the bin is a breeze, keeping the process mess-free and user-friendly. Boasting a practical 1.5-gallon capacity, it fits seamlessly into both home and office settings. While its size may be a tad modest for larger households, the use of recycled plastic and partially recycled steel reflects a commendable commitment to sustainability, underpinning its appeal among eco-conscious consumers.

Best Budget-Friendly

Rubbermaid Step-On Trash Can
Overall Rating
4.4
Brand
Rubbermaid
Capacity
8.25 Gallons
Opening Mechanism
Step-On
Dimensions
11.75"L x 13.25"W x 20.2"H
Weight
4 Pounds

When you’re on the lookout for an affordable trash can that doesn’t skimp on features, the Rubbermaid Step-On Trash Can emerges as a commendable choice. One of its standout qualities is its innovative lid mechanism, allowing it to stay open without the need to continually press the pedal. This foot-free operation is perfect for situations where you need both hands free, yet it also offers the convenience of swinging shut like traditional step cans when required.

Its contemporary design makes it a great fit for narrow spaces, helping you maximize kitchen area without sacrificing style. Moreover, this can is crafted with durable materials, ensuring it stands up to everyday wear and tear. Cleaning is a breeze, which is a significant plus for busy households. While it’s not the flashiest option on the market, the fact that it's made in the USA adds an element of domestic reliability. Overall, it performs remarkably well in the best budget-friendly category.

What To Look For

Choosing the right trash can for your home or office involves considering several key factors that can affect functionality and convenience.

  • Size and Capacity: The size of the trash can should align with the amount of waste you typically generate and the available space in your room; larger capacities are ideal for households or busy workspaces, while smaller ones suit tight areas.
  • Material and Durability: Opt for materials that suit your needs, such as stainless steel for a sleek look and easy cleaning, or plastic for a lighter, more budget-friendly option.
  • Design and Aesthetics: An appealing design can complement your decor, so consider a color and style that match your space and personal preference.
  • Lid Type and Functionality: Decide whether you want a pedal-operated lid for hands-free use, an open-top for quick disposal, or a sensor-operated lid for high-tech convenience.
  • Odor Control: Look for built-in odor control technologies, such as carbon filters or deodorizers, to manage unwanted smells and keep your environment fresh.
  • Ease of Cleaning: Trash cans with removable inner bins or smooth surfaces make the cleaning process significantly easier and more efficient.

Considering these features ensures you select a trash can that effectively meets your practical needs and aesthetic preferences.

How We Select Our Products

When selecting the top trash cans for this blog post, we embarked on a thorough and meticulous process to ensure our readers receive accurate, reliable, and well-researched recommendations. Our journey began by scouring numerous retailer websites for the latest trash cans with high customer ratings. We believe that real user experiences are invaluable, so we prioritized products with substantial positive feedback from verified purchasers.

We didn't stop at just customer ratings. Our team delved into detailed review analysis, focusing on key aspects like durability, ease of use, and overall satisfaction. By examining both praise and criticisms, we aimed to present a balanced view of each product's strengths and weaknesses.

Feature comparison played a crucial role in our selection process as well. We assessed each trash can's material, size, lid mechanism, and any innovative features like pedal operation or odor control. This allowed us to identify products that not only met but exceeded the standard expectations of functionality and convenience.

Another critical factor was value for money. We analyzed the price range of various bins and considered whether the features and quality justified the cost. This helped ensure that our readers get the best bang for their buck without compromising on quality or essential features.

Additionally, we considered eco-friendliness and design appeal since many consumers today not only prefer sustainable options but also want items that complement their home decor.

Overall, our dedication to a detailed and comprehensive evaluation ensures that the recommendations we provide stand up to scrutiny and serve the diverse needs of our audience.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right trash can might seem like a mundane task, but it's one that can significantly impact the cleanliness and functionality of your space. Think about it— a trash can isn't just a receptacle for refuse; it's a cornerstone of maintaining order and hygiene in your home or workspace.

First and foremost, a well-selected trash can can cater to specific needs, whether it's for the kitchen, bathroom, or office. For example, a kitchen trash can with a lid and odor control feature can prevent unpleasant smells and keep pests at bay. Conversely, a compact, sleek design might be perfect for a bathroom, where space is often limited and aesthetics are a concern.

Moreover, choosing the right size is crucial. A trash can that's too small may require frequent emptying, disrupting your daily routine, while one that's too big might occupy unnecessary space. Finding the right balance ensures that you're not constantly dealing with overflowing bins or clutter.

Additionally, consider the material and durability. Stainless steel options are not only attractive but also easy to clean and resistant to rust—ideal for high-traffic areas. On the other hand, plastic bins might be more budget-friendly and versatile for lighter use.

Ultimately, selecting a trash can that meets your needs contributes to a more organized, efficient environment. By taking into account factors like size, material, and location, you're more likely to choose a product that enhances your living or working space. Remember, a well-chosen trash can not only serves a practical purpose but also complements your decor, making routine tasks just a bit more seamless and enjoyable.

Disclosure: Affiliate Links
Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, meaning that if you click on one of the links and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help support the operation of this blog and allow us to continue to provide valuable content. Rest assured, We only recommend products that we believe will add value to our readers. Thank you for your support!
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