The 7 Best Trash Cans of 2025

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.