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10 Best Trash Cans 2026 in the United States

simplehuman 45 Liter/ 12 Gallon Semi-Round Hands-Free Step Trash Can, Brushed

Size: 45 Liter/12 Gallon
Material: Stainless Steel
Lid Type: Step-On
Shape: Semi-Circular
Odor Control: natural odorsorb pod
Durability: 150,000 steps
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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can With Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Brushed Stainless Steel, 50L/13.2 Gal, 16.7x14.7x25.9 in, Satin Nickel Finish

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,190
Size
Lid Type
Shape

Most important from
46999 reviews

Size
Perfect size and shape, holding a lot and fitting bags well.
Lid Type
Sturdy and great quality, with a top that stays open for convenient trash disposal and bag replacement.
Shape
Perfect size and shape, holding a lot and fitting bags well.
Durability
Arrived in perfect condition with no marks or dents, making it a reliable choice.

The Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can is designed to fit comfortably in both home and office settings with its 13.2-gallon capacity, making it suitable for moderate daily use. Its brushed stainless steel exterior is not only aesthetically pleasing with a satin nickel finish but also smudge-resistant, ensuring it remains clean and presentable. The rectangular shape maximizes space efficiency, fitting well in tight corners or against walls. The lid has a stay-open feature, which is handy for prolonged use during tasks like cooking or cleaning. Additionally, the soft-close mechanism provides quiet operation, preventing disturbances in a peaceful environment.

The foot pedal allows hands-free access, adding to its convenience. The inner bucket is made of heavy-duty plastic and is removable, making trash disposal and liner changes straightforward. The carry handle further enhances ease of mobility, though it lacks wheels, which may limit its portability across large spaces. Despite its robust construction, it does not feature any specific odor control mechanisms, which could be a drawback for users needing to manage strong smells efficiently.

This trash can is highly durable, but the lack of specialized odor control might not make it the best choice for kitchens or areas with high waste odor potential.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,190
Size
Lid Type
Shape

Most important from
46999 reviews

Size
Perfect size and shape, holding a lot and fitting bags well.
Lid Type
Sturdy and great quality, with a top that stays open for convenient trash disposal and bag replacement.
Shape
Perfect size and shape, holding a lot and fitting bags well.
Durability
Arrived in perfect condition with no marks or dents, making it a reliable choice.
#2

Glad 20 Gallon Trash Can - Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin with Odor Protection of Lid - Hands Free with Step On Foot Pedal and Garbage Bag Rings, Black

Rating
8.2
Size
Lid Type
Durability

Most important from
27286 reviews

Size
Its size is perfect for kitchen use, balancing capacity without being bulky.
Lid Type
Hands-free opening with the step-on pedal is smooth and convenient for everyday use.
Durability
Despite being lightweight, the trash can feels sturdy and durable for regular household use.

The Glad 20 Gallon Trash Can is a good choice if you need a mid-sized bin for your kitchen or office. Its 20-gallon capacity is large enough for typical household use without being too bulky. Made from durable plastic, it’s lightweight (just over 9 pounds) yet sturdy. The rectangular shape fits well in corners or against walls, saving space.

A standout feature is the Clorox Odor Protection built into the lid, which helps keep unpleasant smells contained over time. The step-on foot pedal allows for hands-free opening, making it more sanitary and convenient when your hands are full. The built-in bag rings keep trash bags securely in place, preventing them from slipping inside the bin. The matte black finish resists smudges, keeping the bin looking cleaner between washes.

Although the plastic construction is durable, it might not be as heavy-duty as metal bins for very rough use or outdoor environments. The rectangular shape may not appeal to those who prefer round bins or need something more compact. This trash can balances practical features and ease of use, making it a solid pick for anyone looking for a reliable indoor kitchen or office trash bin with good odor control and hands-free operation.

Rating
8.2
Size
Lid Type
Durability

Most important from
27286 reviews

Size
Its size is perfect for kitchen use, balancing capacity without being bulky.
Lid Type
Hands-free opening with the step-on pedal is smooth and convenient for everyday use.
Durability
Despite being lightweight, the trash can feels sturdy and durable for regular household use.
#3

Rubbermaid Commercial Products Brute Rollout Trash/Garbage Can/Bin with Wheels, 32 GAL, Gray, for Restaurants/Hospitals/Offices/Back of House/Warehouses/Home

Rating
7.9
Material
Lid Type
Mobility

Most important from
7366 reviews

Material
The plastic is durable and impact-resistant, with the right thickness to avoid excessive weight.
Lid Type
The lid channels water away, preventing soggy surprises even in the rain.
Mobility
Heavy-duty wheels scoff at gravel and glide over uneven surfaces with the grace of a ballroom dancer.
Durability
Reinforced base withstands rough surfaces, akin to the Chuck Norris of trash cans.

The Rubbermaid Commercial Products Brute Rollout Trash/Garbage Can/Bin with Wheels is a versatile trash can suitable for various settings such as restaurants, hospitals, offices, and homes. With a capacity of 32 gallons, it offers ample space for general refuse and bulk waste collection. The rectangular shape and resin material contribute to its sturdy construction, making it durable for both indoor and outdoor use.

The smooth finish and seamless construction make cleaning easier, which is great for improving productivity, especially in commercial environments. The heavy-duty wheels and ergonomic handle enable effortless mobility, allowing for easy transport around garages, driveways, and other areas. The lid opens fully and stays in place, preventing it from swinging during movement, which is a handy feature for hassle-free use.

Moreover, it is autolifter ready, complying with ANSI standards for compatibility with automated lifters, adding convenience for commercial users. However, it lacks specific odor control features, which might be a drawback in environments where odor management is crucial. Additionally, manual-lift opening might not be as convenient for users preferring automatic mechanisms. Despite these minor setbacks, the trash can's design emphasizes durability and ease of use, making it a reliable choice for both residential and commercial applications.

Rating
7.9
Material
Lid Type
Mobility

Most important from
7366 reviews

Material
The plastic is durable and impact-resistant, with the right thickness to avoid excessive weight.
Lid Type
The lid channels water away, preventing soggy surprises even in the rain.
Mobility
Heavy-duty wheels scoff at gravel and glide over uneven surfaces with the grace of a ballroom dancer.
Durability
Reinforced base withstands rough surfaces, akin to the Chuck Norris of trash cans.

Buying Guide for the Best Trash Cans

Choosing the right trash can might seem like a simple task, but there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. The right trash can will not only help keep your space clean and organized but also make waste disposal more efficient. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a trash can.
SizeThe size of a trash can is crucial because it determines how much waste it can hold. Trash cans come in various sizes, typically measured in gallons or liters. Small trash cans (under 10 gallons) are suitable for bathrooms or bedrooms, medium-sized cans (10-20 gallons) work well in kitchens, and large cans (over 20 gallons) are ideal for outdoor use or high-traffic areas. Consider the amount of waste you generate and the space available when choosing the size.
MaterialTrash cans are made from different materials, including plastic, stainless steel, and metal. Plastic cans are lightweight, affordable, and come in various colors, making them suitable for indoor use. Stainless steel cans are more durable, resistant to odors, and have a sleek appearance, ideal for kitchens and offices. Metal cans are robust and often used for outdoor purposes. Choose a material based on where you plan to use the trash can and your preference for durability and aesthetics.
Lid TypeThe lid type affects how you access the trash can and control odors. Open-top cans are easy to use but do not contain odors well. Swing-top lids are convenient but can get dirty quickly. Step-on or pedal lids allow hands-free operation, making them hygienic for kitchens. Touchless or sensor lids offer the most convenience and hygiene but are more expensive. Consider how often you use the trash can and the importance of odor control when selecting a lid type.
ShapeTrash cans come in various shapes, including round, rectangular, and square. Round cans are versatile and fit well in corners or small spaces. Rectangular and square cans offer more capacity and fit neatly against walls or in cabinets. The shape you choose should depend on the available space and where you plan to place the trash can.
Odor ControlOdor control is an important feature, especially for kitchen trash cans. Some cans come with built-in odor filters or deodorizers to help minimize unpleasant smells. If odor control is a priority, look for cans with these features or consider using odor-absorbing products like baking soda or charcoal filters.
MobilityMobility refers to how easily you can move the trash can. Some cans come with wheels or handles, making them easier to transport, especially when full. This feature is particularly useful for larger cans or those used outdoors. If you need to move your trash can frequently, consider one with wheels or a handle.
DurabilityDurability is important to ensure your trash can lasts a long time. Look for cans made from high-quality materials that can withstand regular use and exposure to elements if used outdoors. Stainless steel and heavy-duty plastic are good options for durability. Consider how often you use the trash can and the conditions it will be exposed to when assessing durability.

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