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Trash Cans

Expert Picks for January 2026

Best Trash Cans

The most-touched object nobody thinks about. We compared trash cans from touchless sensors to pedal systemsβ€”finding what contains odors and what broadcasts every disposal.

Last updated: January 28, 2026
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Best Overall Our top recommendation
Best Overall
Sensor Can with Voice Control

Simplehuman

Sensor Can with Voice Control

4.7 (23,456 reviews)

The Tesla of trash cans. Touchless, voice-activated, odor-filtered.

Capacity

45-58L options

Opening

Sensor + voice

Liner

Custom fit

Material

Stainless steel

Pros

  • βœ“ Touchless sensor
  • βœ“ Voice control option
  • βœ“ Custom fit liners

Cons

  • βœ— Very expensive
  • βœ— Batteries/rechargeable
  • βœ— Proprietary liners

Head-to-Head Comparison

ProductRatingPrice Action
Sensor Can with Voice Control
Sensor Can with Voice Control Best
Simplehuman
4.7
$200 View
Step-On Wastebasket
Step-On Wastebasket Value
Rubbermaid
4.5
$40 View
Automatic Sensor Trash Can
Automatic Sensor Trash Can
iTouchless
4.4
$85 View
Brim Step Waste Can
Brim Step Waste Can
Umbra
4.4
$35 View

* Prices may vary. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

All Recommended Products

Best Overall
Sensor Can with Voice Control

Simplehuman

Sensor Can with Voice Control

4.7 (23,456 reviews)

The Tesla of trash cans. Touchless, voice-activated, odor-filtered.

Capacity

45-58L options

Opening

Sensor + voice

Liner

Custom fit

Material

Stainless steel

Pros

  • βœ“ Touchless sensor
  • βœ“ Voice control option
  • βœ“ Custom fit liners

Cons

  • βœ— Very expensive
  • βœ— Batteries/rechargeable
  • βœ— Proprietary liners
Best Value
Step-On Wastebasket

Rubbermaid

Step-On Wastebasket

4.5 (45,678 reviews)

Commercial reliability for home use. Step pedal works forever.

Capacity

13 gallon

Opening

Step pedal

Material

Plastic

Liner lock

Yes

Pros

  • βœ“ Reliable step pedal
  • βœ“ Durable construction
  • βœ“ Lid stays open when needed

Cons

  • βœ— Basic design
  • βœ— No sensor
  • βœ— Plastic construction
Premium Pick
Automatic Sensor Trash Can

iTouchless

Automatic Sensor Trash Can

4.4 (34,567 reviews)

Touchless without simplehuman prices. Best value in automatic cans.

Capacity

13 gallon

Opening

Infrared sensor

Power

Batteries or AC

Filter

AbsorbX

Pros

  • βœ“ Touchless at reasonable price
  • βœ“ AbsorbX odor filter
  • βœ“ Standard trash bags fit

Cons

  • βœ— Sensor can be finicky
  • βœ— Plastic base
  • βœ— Lid mechanism varies
Budget Pick
Brim Step Waste Can

Umbra

Brim Step Waste Can

4.4 (23,456 reviews)

Style meets function at a reasonable price. Slow-close lid is satisfying.

Capacity

13 gallon

Opening

Step pedal

Lid

Slow-close

Bags

Standard tall kitchen

Pros

  • βœ“ Modern design
  • βœ“ Quiet lid close
  • βœ“ Standard bags fit

Cons

  • βœ— Plastic
  • βœ— Pedal can wear
  • βœ— Basic construction

Buying Guide: How to Choose Trash Cans

Trash Cans: More Complex Than They Seem

Step pedals are more reliable long-term. Sensors are more hygienic but need power.

Frequently Asked Questions About Trash Cans

Are expensive trash cans worth it?

For daily-use kitchen cans: often yes. Quality mechanisms last years longer.

Sensor vs step pedalβ€”which is better?

Step pedals are more reliable. Sensors are more hygienic. Both beat hand-opening.

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