The 6 Best Kitchen Trash Cans

A good kitchen trash can is one of those things you don’t think about until you have a bad one. A lid that slams, a bag that always slips, or a pedal that breaks after a few months—it’s a small but constant annoyance. I’ve been through a few cans myself over the years, from cheap plastic ones to splurging on something nicer.

So, I decided to really look into it. I checked out all the latest trash can rankings for 2026 and tested a few in my own busy kitchen. It’s not just about holding garbage; it’s about making daily cleanup a little bit easier and keeping your kitchen looking and smelling fresh.

Here’s a rundown of the ones that actually stand up to real-world use, from budget workhorses to high-tech helpers.

Our Kitchen Trash Can Rankings for 2026

simplehuman 45L Rectangular Step Can

This simplehuman can costs about $150, and honestly, it’s worth every penny. We’ve had this one for two years, and it still looks and works like new. The stainless steel is fingerprint-proof, so it doesn’t get smudged up by the kids, and the step pedal is super sturdy and smooth.

The best part is the “liner pocket” on the back. You store a whole roll of their bags right there, and you can pull a new one through from inside the can. It makes changing the trash so much faster. And the lid closes completely silently, which is a nice little touch.

The Downside: You really get the best fit using their own proprietary liners, which are a bit more expensive than standard trash bags.

 

 

Rubbermaid Classic 13-Gallon Step-On Trash Can

At around $25, this Rubbermaid is the one to get if you just want something that works without any fuss. It’s a classic for a reason. We use one of these in the garage, and it’s been kicked around and abused, but the step pedal holds up.

It’s made of a durable plastic that’s really easy to wipe down. There are no weird crevices for gunk to get stuck in. It holds a standard 13-gallon bag perfectly, and you can’t beat the price for a can this reliable.

The Downside: It’s basic plastic, so it can get scuffed up and show wear and tear over time. It doesn’t do much for your kitchen’s decor.

 

 

simplehuman Dual Compartment Rectangular Step Can

For about $150, this dual-compartment can from simplehuman is perfect if you do a lot of recycling. We have a small kitchen, and having our trash and recycling in one sleek container saved us so much floor space. One side has a bin for trash, and the other has one for recyclables.

Just like their other cans, the build quality is fantastic. The single step pedal opens the whole lid smoothly, and both inner bins are removable, which makes taking out the recycling really simple. It just streamlines the whole process.

The Downside: Because it’s split into two, each compartment is smaller than a standard trash can. You’ll be taking out the trash and recycling a bit more often.

 

 

Ninestars 13-Gallon Motion Sensor Trash Can

This Ninestars model runs about $60 and is a great entry into touchless trash cans. I love having a motion sensor lid when my hands are covered in raw chicken or dough. Just a wave of the hand and it opens right up.

The stainless steel finish looks clean and resists fingerprints well. It does a decent job of containing odors, and the 13-gallon size is perfect for most kitchens. For the price, the hands-free convenience is hard to beat.

The Downside: It runs on batteries, and you’ll find yourself changing them every few months, especially in a high-traffic kitchen.

 

 

iTouchless 13-Gallon Sensor Trash Can

Priced around $105, the iTouchless can is all about hygiene. Besides the touchless sensor, it has an activated carbon odor filter in the lid. I was skeptical, but it actually makes a difference, especially with stuff like onion peels or leftover fish.

It’s a sturdy stainless steel can that’s easy to wipe clean. If you’re someone who is really focused on keeping germs and smells contained, this is a fantastic option. It feels like a solid, well-built appliance.

The Downside: The motion sensor can be a little finicky. Sometimes it opens when you just walk by, and other times you have to wave your hand a couple of times.

 

 

EKO Mirage X 80L Motion Sensor Trash Can

For about $110, this EKO trash can is absolutely massive. At over 21 gallons, it’s built for large families or people who generate a lot of trash. We used this during a kitchen renovation, and it was amazing how much it could hold without needing to be emptied constantly.

It also has a motion sensor, which is a great feature for a can this big. The design is pretty simple and stable, so you don’t have to worry about it tipping over even when it’s stuffed full. It’s a real workhorse.

The Downside: Its huge capacity means it has a large footprint. You need to have dedicated floor space for this thing; it won’t just tuck into a small corner.

 

 

What to Look for in a Kitchen Trash Can

Choosing a can really comes down to a few simple things. First, think about size. A standard 13-gallon (or around 50-liter) can is perfect for most families of four. If you’re on your own or have a tiny kitchen, you can go smaller. If you have a huge family, go big so you’re not constantly changing the bag.

Next is the material. Stainless steel looks great, resists odors, and is easy to clean, but it costs more. Plastic is cheap and durable but can get stained or hold onto smells over time. I prefer steel in the kitchen and plastic for the garage or pantry.

Finally, consider the lid mechanism. A simple step-on pedal is reliable and classic. But a motion sensor is amazing for hygiene and convenience, as long as you don’t mind changing batteries. It’s all about what makes your daily routine a little bit smoother.