7 Best Kitchen Trash Cans, According to Experts

A Cleaning Lab favorite, especially for smaller households, this sleek stainless steel kitchen trash can also comes in other finishes, larger sizes, and even a dual-bin can for separating recyclables. Instead of a bulky inner bucket, this model maximizes capacity (about 25% more room, according to the brand) and uses a clever liner rim system to hold bags securely in place. There’s a built-in compartment that stores up to 20 liners for quick changes, plus a slot for Simplehuman’s Odorsorb pods to help cut down on unpleasant smells.

While it doesn’t have a motion sensor, the durable steel pedal makes hands-free opening easy, and its slim, flat profile saves floor space. Executive Director of the Good Housekeeping Cleaning Lab Carolyn Forté has used hers for over four years and says the lid still closes as smoothly and quietly as day one. The fingerprint-resistant exterior also holds up beautifully, though she notes Simplehuman’s custom liners are best for a snug fit (though you can still use regular trash bags).

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It may be no-frills, but this stainless steel trash can is a solid pick if you want something simple, practical, and well-sized for everyday use. Its 30-liter (7.9-gallon) capacity makes it a convenient option for a kitchen, home office, or smaller household, and the traditional design blends easily into most spaces. There aren't any true standout features, but a removable inner bucket and built-in carry handle make emptying and moving the can straightforward, while the stay-open lid is helpful for longer tasks like meal prep or cleanup.

The durable stainless-steel exterior is smudge-resistant to help prevent fingerprints, and the heavy-duty plastic bucket inside holds up to regular wear and tear. We also like the soft-close lid, which shuts quietly after you use the manual foot pedal.

This dual-compartment trash can is designed to make kitchen cleanup almost effortless. Built-in motion sensors let you wave to open the lid—handy when your hands are messy from cooking—and according to the brand, you can even say “open can” thanks to its three built-in microphones. Lab tests found the sensor generally responsive, though occasionally a touch slow.

The can’s two compartments include a 34-liter side and a slightly smaller 24-liter side, making it easy to separate trash and recyclables. Inside, one compartment there's a removable plastic bucket with a handle, while the other is designed for liners. Like other Simplehuman models, it’s also compatible with the brand’s Odorsorb pods. Just keep in mind: This trash can requires either an outlet or AA batteries to power the motion and voice features.

If you’re looking for a lightweight, affordable option, this 12.2-gallon Rubbermaid Touch-Top Trash Can is a practical choice for everyday use. The touch-top lid closes securely to help contain odors, but is still easy to open with a single click. It’s sized to work with standard 13-gallon liners, and we like that Rubbermaid’s integrated LinerLock technology keeps bags securely in place and out of sight for a cleaner look.

It may not be the most stylish option, but since it's made from resin, this trash can is durable, easy to clean, and simpler to move around than heavier stainless-steel models.

It’s hard to find a kitchen trash can that combines style and functionality as seamlessly as this one. A favorite in our Beauty Lab, its slim, sleek design and satin taupe finish give it a modern edge that works in any space, while a soft-close lid and light foot pedal make hands-free use a breeze. Despite its slender profile, the non-slip base and anti-tilt block keep it steady, and the removable inner bucket—with ventilation holes for easy lifting—makes emptying and cleaning simple.

We also love that it’s available in a range of designer colors to match your kitchen’s style, and the included PerfectFit trash bags ensure a snug, tidy fit. Just keep in mind: Its 8-gallon capacity is mid-sized, so households that generate a lot of waste may need a larger option.

Though pricey, this Joseph Joseph vertical trash can has one of the more original, innovative designs that you’ll find with two compartments stacked on top of one another to save you floor space. Our Cleaning Lab pros stand behind the brand and like that the bottom compartment easily slides out when it’s ready to be emptied.

Each compartment features removable bins that make taking out the trash easy, and there’s a 3-liter food waste caddy for composting that sits within the recycling compartment. We also appreciate the built-in odor control that’s meant to reduce smells via replaceable filters, as well as liner-retaining holes to help your trash bags stay in place.

Whether you live in a studio apartment or just need a compact option for your kitchen or home office, this petite Brabantia trash can is a perfect fit—even if it will require more frequent emptying. The odor-proof lid closes softly, and the foot pedal opens with a light tap for hands-free use. A non-slip base with an anti-tilt block keeps the can steady, while the removable inner bucket makes emptying and cleaning simple. Made from corrosion-resistant materials and partly recycled steel, it’s durable, sustainable, and ideal for humid areas like the bathroom.