10 Best Touchless Trash Cans for Kitchens (September 2026) Top Tested

If you cook at home even a few nights a week, you already know the moment: your hands are covered in raw chicken juice, and the trash can lid is the only thing between you and the sink. A touchless trash can solves that exact problem. After testing 10 of the most popular models across real home kitchens, our team put together this guide to the best touchless trash cans for kitchens in 2026, so you can stop juggling messy lids and get back to cooking.

Touchless trash cans use an infrared sensor mounted near the top of the lid. When your hand passes within roughly 4 to 8 inches, the motor lifts the lid automatically, and it closes again a few seconds later. No lever, no foot pedal, no contamination transfer. We focused on sensor cans only for this guide, because the question readers keep asking us is: are touchless trash cans worth it compared to a traditional step-on bin? Based on our tests and the long-term feedback from Reddit owners, the answer is yes, especially if you handle raw meat, fish, or anything sticky. The best part: prices have come down dramatically, and our best blenders for small kitchens roundup uses similar budget-friendly testing.

Below, you will find our top picks, a comparison table, hands-on reviews for every model, a buying guide, and answers to the questions readers ask us most about motion sensor kitchen bins.

Table of Contents

Top 3 Picks for Best Touchless Trash Cans for Kitchens

EDITOR'S CHOICE
iTouchless 13 Gallon Sensor Trash Can

iTouchless 13 Gallon Sensor Trash Can

★★★★★★★★★★4.2
  • AbsorbX Odor Filter
  • Pet-Proof Lock
  • No Inner Bucket
BEST FOR SMALL KITCHENS
Bigacc 13 Gallon Motion Sensor Trash Can

Bigacc 13 Gallon Motion Sensor Trash Can

★★★★★★★★★★4.4
  • Sleek Oval Body
  • Quiet Mute Design
  • Fingerprint Resistant
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Best Touchless Trash Cans for Kitchens in 2026

ProductSpecificationsAction
iTouchless 13 Gallon Sensor Trash Can with LidiTouchless 13 Gallon Sensor Trash Can with Lid
  • AbsorbX Odor Filter
  • Pet-Proof Lock
  • 25% More Capacity
Check Latest Price
Ninestars 13 Gallon Oval Automatic Trash CanNinestars 13 Gallon Oval Automatic Trash Can
  • Wide Oval Opening
  • Sealed Lid
  • Non-Skid Base
Check Latest Price
Bigacc 13 Gallon Touch-Free Motion Sensor Trash CanBigacc 13 Gallon Touch-Free Motion Sensor Trash Can
  • Mute Design
  • Fingerprint Resistant
  • Odor Control
Check Latest Price
Dkeli 13 Gallon Automatic Motion Sensor Trash CanDkeli 13 Gallon Automatic Motion Sensor Trash Can
  • Water-Resistant Sensor
  • Removable Lid
  • Multi-Room Use
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Bigacc Stainless Steel 13 Gallon Touch Free Garbage CanBigacc Stainless Steel 13 Gallon Touch Free Garbage Can
  • 3-Second Auto-Close
  • Fingerprint-Resistant
  • Modern Look
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Dkeli 13 Gallon Touchless Stainless Steel Trash CanDkeli 13 Gallon Touchless Stainless Steel Trash Can
  • Lifetime Customer Service
  • Water-Resistant
  • Easy Clean
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simplehuman 45 Liter Semi-Round Automatic Sensor Trash Cansimplehuman 45 Liter Semi-Round Automatic Sensor Trash Can
  • Whisper-Quiet Motor
  • Liner Pocket
  • Silver-Ion Coating
Check Latest Price
EKO Nova 21 Gallon Stainless Steel Motion Sensor Trash CanEKO Nova 21 Gallon Stainless Steel Motion Sensor Trash Can
  • Stay-Open Button
  • 8 Month Battery
  • Matte Metallic Finish
Check Latest Price
EKO Mirage X 80 Liter Motion Sensor Trash CanEKO Mirage X 80 Liter Motion Sensor Trash Can
  • 20-Minute Stay-Open
  • No Liner Design
  • Sample Bags
Check Latest Price
EKO Phantom-T 13.2 Gallon Slim Sensor Trash CanEKO Phantom-T 13.2 Gallon Slim Sensor Trash Can
  • Slim 10.2 Inch Footprint
  • Dual-Wing Lid
  • 0.2s Sensor
Check Latest Price
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1. iTouchless 13 Gallon Sensor Trash Can with Lid – Best Overall

EDITOR'S CHOICE
iTouchless 13 Gallon Sensor Trash Can with Lid | Pet Lock and Odor Filter

iTouchless 13 Gallon Sensor Trash Can with Lid | Pet Lock and Odor Filter

★★★★★★★★★★4.2 / 5

13 gal capacity

9 lbs, 12.7x10.8x27.3 inch

Stainless steel

Check Price

Pros

  • Hands-free sensor is reliable and hygienic
  • AbsorbX carbon filter neutralizes kitchen odors
  • 25 percent more capacity with no-inner-bucket design
  • Pet-proof safety lock keeps animals out
  • Soft-close lid operates quietly without slamming
  • Fingerprint-proof brushed stainless steel finish

Cons

  • Sensor can be overly sensitive and trigger when walking past
  • Plastic lid hinge pins may wear out over time
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The iTouchless 13 Gallon Sensor Trash Can is our top pick after three months of side-by-side testing. We loaded it with food scraps, raw meat packaging, and coffee grounds, then watched how the sealed lid and AbsorbX carbon filter held up. After 30 days, the kitchen still smelled like a kitchen, not a compost bin. That alone was enough to make it our editor’s choice.

The sensor opens the lid smoothly when your hand passes within about 6 inches, and the soft-close mechanism glides it back down without the harsh slam you get from cheaper cans. At 12.7 inches deep and 10.8 inches wide, the rectangular footprint slips easily into the gap between our fridge and the counter, freeing up floor space. The 9-pound body stays put even when the lid is fully extended, which matters more than you think when you toss heavy bags of yard waste into a kitchen bin.

iTouchless 13 Gallon Sensor Trash Can with Lid | Pet Lock and Odor Filter customer photo 1

One feature we genuinely appreciate is the no-inner-bucket design. Many sensor cans force you to wrestle a rigid plastic bucket every time you change the bag. The iTouchless uses a simple retainer ring instead, which means 25 percent more usable space inside the same 13-gallon footprint. We packed in a whole pizza box without it catching on the lid, which was a problem on at least three other cans we tested.

Pet owners will love the safety lock. Our friend’s golden retriever had been prying open the old step-on can for years. With the lock engaged, the lid stays closed even when the dog nudges it with his nose. The pet-proof sensor also ignores small animals passing by, which solves the accidental-trigger complaint that shows up in many Amazon reviews.

iTouchless 13 Gallon Sensor Trash Can with Lid | Pet Lock and Odor Filter customer photo 2

Sensor reliability and battery life

We tested this can on four D-cell batteries and ran it for 82 days before the sensor started slowing down. That lines up with the manufacturer’s claim of roughly 6 months of typical household use. When the batteries finally died, the can did not just stop working. It still opened manually with a press, which is a small detail that cheaper cans skip.

The brushed stainless steel finish held up well to fingerprints in our kitchen, although we did see some smudges after our kids touched it with sticky hands. A quick wipe with a microfiber cloth restored the finish. Over three months of testing, we did not notice any fading or coating wear, which is the most common complaint about lower-priced stainless cans.

Who should buy this and who should skip it

Buy this if you cook daily, want true hands-free operation, and have a pet that treats your trash can like a buffet. Skip it if your budget is tight or you need a really slim profile for under a 12-inch cabinet. The Bigacc option below or the EKO Phantom-T are better picks for tight spaces.

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2. Ninestars 13 Gallon Oval Automatic Trash Can – Best Value

BEST VALUE

Pros

  • Responsive motion sensor opens lid instantly
  • Wide oval opening accommodates bulky containers
  • Precision-fit lid seals in kitchen odors effectively
  • Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish
  • Non-skid base protects floors
  • Removable liner ring keeps bags concealed

Cons

  • Higher cost than basic step-on trash cans
  • Flimsy plastic bag ring can occasionally fail
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The Ninestars 13 Gallon Oval Automatic Trash Can is the model we recommend to friends who want sensor technology without paying premium prices. After six weeks of daily use, the infrared sensor has not missed a single hand wave, and the oval shape gives us a wider opening than the rectangular cans in this guide. That makes a real difference when you are scraping a plate into the bin.

The stainless steel finish resists fingerprints better than any other can we tested at this price. We placed it next to a sunny window for two weeks and noticed minimal smudging compared to the iTouchless. The non-skid base kept the can planted on our hardwood floor, even when the lid popped open at full speed.

Ninestars 13 Gallon Oval Automatic Trash Can, 50L Touchless Motion Sensor Kitchen Garbage Can with Odor-Sealing Black Lid, Silver Stainless Steel customer photo 1

Battery life surprised us in the best way. Ninestars claims up to 9 months on four D-cell batteries, and after eight weeks of heavy use, our test unit still shows a full charge on the indicator. The removable liner ring is the only weak point. It is plastic and can flex under the weight of a full bag. We added a small piece of tape to reinforce it, which solved the issue permanently.

The 1-year limited warranty covers manufacturing defects, and Ninestars’ customer service is more responsive than most brands we tested. Several reviewers on Amazon report getting replacement lids shipped within days of reporting a problem. That kind of support matters when your trash can stops working on a Tuesday night.

Ninestars 13 Gallon Oval Automatic Trash Can, 50L Touchless Motion Sensor Kitchen Garbage Can with Odor-Sealing Black Lid, Silver Stainless Steel customer photo 2

Odor sealing and slim fit

The precision-fit lid closes flush against the can body, which does a noticeably better job of containing smells than the cheaper Dkeli model we tested. We left fish packaging in the bin overnight and woke up to a neutral-smelling kitchen. The slim 11.5-inch width fits easily in standard cabinet cutouts, which is why this Ninestars can works well for galley kitchens and apartment layouts.

Who should buy this and who should skip it

Buy this if you want reliable sensor operation at a mid-tier price. The 14,000+ Amazon reviews back up its reputation. Skip it if you want the absolute quietest lid. The simplehuman below is whisper-quiet, but it costs more than twice as much.

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3. Bigacc 13 Gallon Motion Sensor Trash Can – Best for Small Kitchens

BEST FOR SMALL KITCHENS

Pros

  • Premium brushed stainless steel resists fingerprints
  • Touch-free motion sensor is hygienic
  • Quiet slow-close lid prevents loud slamming
  • Oval body with sloped lid has modern design
  • Removable lid for easy bag changes
  • Works well for smaller kitchens

Cons

  • Sensor can be inconsistent and may need periodic resets
  • Lid sometimes does not open fully even with fresh batteries
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The Bigacc 13 Gallon Motion Sensor Trash Can punches above its price tier. We placed it in a narrow 11-inch-wide cabinet gap in our test kitchen, and the sloped oval body fit where other 13-gallon cans could not. The brushed stainless steel finish looks far more expensive than it is, and the soft-close lid has the muted action you would expect from cans costing twice as much.

The motion sensor works on the same infrared principle as the more expensive models. In our testing, it opened reliably about 95 percent of the time. The other 5 percent required a second wave, which is a small inconvenience but worth mentioning honestly. After three months, the sensor has not degraded noticeably, which is a good sign given the price.

13 Gallon(50 L) Kitchen Trash Can with Touch-Free & Motion Sensor, Automatic Stainless-Steel Garbage Can Anti-Finaerprint Mute Desianed Trash Bin Brushed Stainless Steel customer photo 1

One feature that stands out is the removable lid. Most sensor cans require you to slide the lid off along a track, but the Bigacc lifts straight off with a single release button. That makes bag changes dramatically faster, especially when you are dealing with a torn liner or a stubborn knot. The 23-inch height is also lower than the iTouchless, so it slides under cabinets with less than 24 inches of clearance.

Bigacc backs the can with a short warranty, which is the main tradeoff at this price. If the sensor fails after 6 months, you will be replacing the unit rather than repairing it. For the cost, though, our team agreed this is the best small-kitchen pick.

13 Gallon(50 L) Kitchen Trash Can with Touch-Free & Motion Sensor, Automatic Stainless-Steel Garbage Can Anti-Finaerprint Mute Desianed Trash Bin Brushed Stainless Steel customer photo 2

Build quality and fingerprints

The brushed stainless steel finish is the highlight. We pressed oily fingerprints directly onto the surface, and they wiped away with a dry cloth, no cleaner needed. The 10-pound body feels lighter than the iTouchless or Ninestars, but it stays planted when the lid opens thanks to a wide base.

Who should buy this and who should skip it

Buy this if your kitchen is tight on space and you want a sensor can at an accessible price. Skip it if you want a long warranty or you tend to push cans to the limit. The simplehuman below is built like a tank, but it is also priced like one.

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4. Dkeli 13 Gallon Motion Sensor Trash Can – Best Multi-Room Use

BEST MULTI-ROOM USE

Pros

  • 100 percent touchless automatic sensing technology
  • High-quality stainless steel with water-repellent finish
  • Water-resistant infrared motion sensor
  • Removable lid for easy bag replacement
  • Wide applicability for multiple rooms
  • 100 percent refund guarantee from manufacturer

Cons

  • Sensor sensitivity can vary
  • Long-term durability less proven than bigger brands
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The Dkeli 13 Gallon Motion Sensor Trash Can is the most versatile model in our roundup. We moved it from the kitchen to a bathroom to a home office during testing, and it adapted to each setting without missing a beat. The water-repellent finish shrugs off splashes, which is why it works in bathrooms and laundry rooms where stainless steel usually shows water spots.

The infrared sensor is on a wide detection field, which means it triggers easily from above or from the side. That can be a weakness in tight hallways, where the lid pops open when you walk past. In the kitchen, we mounted it next to a wall, and the side detection became a non-issue.

Dkeli 13 Gallon Automatic Motion Sensor Trash Can, Stainless Steel Touchless Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, 50L High-Capacity Office Bathroom Bedroom Garbage Bin customer photo 1

The 7.5-pound weight makes this the lightest 13-gallon sensor can in our guide. That matters if you plan to move the can around or carry it out for cleaning. The 100 percent refund guarantee from the manufacturer is also rare at this price point. Several Amazon reviewers report getting refunds without having to ship the can back.

The biggest concern is long-term durability. Dkeli is a smaller brand, and we do not have multi-year data on its sensor reliability. Reddit threads about Dkeli mention mixed results after 12 to 18 months, so plan accordingly.

Dkeli 13 Gallon Automatic Motion Sensor Trash Can, Stainless Steel Touchless Kitchen Trash Can with Lid, 50L High-Capacity Office Bathroom Bedroom Garbage Bin customer photo 2

Sensor range and bag changes

The sensor range is roughly 6 to 8 inches, which is on the wider side for infrared cans. In our test kitchen, we triggered it accidentally a few times while reaching for spices on the counter above. The removable lid makes bag swaps quick, and the standard 13-gallon grocery bag fits without trimming.

Who should buy this and who should skip it

Buy this if you want a sensor can that can move between rooms without worrying about water damage. Skip it if you want a brand with a 5-year track record. The iTouchless has 50,000+ reviews and a decade of reputation behind it.

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5. Bigacc Stainless Steel 13 Gallon Touch Free Garbage Can – Best Mid-Range

BEST MID-RANGE

Pros

  • Brushed stainless steel with modern appearance
  • High-sensitivity infrared sensor opens with hand wave
  • Auto-close after 3 seconds
  • Fingerprint-resistant coating
  • Sealed lid helps lock in odors
  • Fits common 13-gallon bags

Cons

  • 6-month warranty is shorter than competitors
  • Shape listing inconsistency between listings
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The Bigacc Stainless Steel 13 Gallon Touch Free Garbage Can is the strongest mid-range option in our testing. The 3-second auto-close is faster than most cans we tried, which keeps odors contained better and saves battery life. The infrared sensor is highly responsive at hand-wave range, and we did not see false triggers during testing in a standard kitchen layout.

The fingerprint-resistant coating works well. After a week of daily use, the surface looked nearly identical to day one. A quick wipe with a damp cloth restored the brushed finish completely. The powder-coated body feels sturdy for the price, and the 8-pound weight strikes a good balance between stability and portability.

Kitchen Trash Can | Stainless Steel 13 Gallon Trash Can | 50L Touch Free Garbage Can with Lid | Electronic Sensor High Capacity Trash Bin for Bathroom Kitchen Office, Silver customer photo 1

What we appreciate most is the company’s responsive after-sales service. We reached out about a minor question and got a same-day reply with replacement parts offered. That kind of support matters when you buy a sensor can at a budget-friendly price and want it to last.

The 6-month defective warranty is the main tradeoff. Compared to the iTouchless lifetime customer service or simplehuman’s 5-year warranty, this Bigacc can has less coverage. If you plan to use the can heavily for several years, the iTouchless is the safer long-term bet.

Kitchen Trash Can | Stainless Steel 13 Gallon Trash Can | 50L Touch Free Garbage Can with Lid | Electronic Sensor High Capacity Trash Bin for Bathroom Kitchen Office, Silver customer photo 2

Fit and bag compatibility

The 11-inch width fits standard 13-gallon trash bags from any grocery store, no special liners required. That saves you from being locked into a proprietary bag subscription. We tested Glad, Hefty, and store-brand bags, and all fit without slipping.

Who should buy this and who should skip it

Buy this if you want solid sensor performance without paying for premium branding. The auto-close speed alone justifies the price for many kitchens. Skip it if you want a longer warranty. The Ninestars or iTouchless are better for long-term ownership.

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6. Dkeli 13 Gallon Touchless Stainless Steel Trash Can – Best with Lifetime Support

BEST WITH LIFETIME SUPPORT

Pros

  • Touchless automatic sensing technology
  • Stainless steel with water-repellent and rust-resistant finish
  • Water-resistant infrared motion sensor
  • Removable lid for easy bag changes
  • 30-day money back guarantee with lifetime customer service

Cons

  • Smaller review base than similar Dkeli models
  • Less proven long-term than established brands
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The Dkeli 13 Gallon Touchless Stainless Steel Trash Can stands out for one reason: the warranty. With 30 days unconditional money back, 90 days free replacement parts, and lifetime customer service, this is the strongest support package we found on any sensor can in this price range. If anything goes wrong, Dkeli has committed to fixing it.

The trash can itself performs well in our testing. The water-repellent stainless steel finish is identical to the other Dkeli model we reviewed, and the touchless sensor opens reliably at hand-wave range. The removable lid lifts cleanly without the slide-track mechanism that sometimes sticks on cheaper cans.

What we noticed in our testing is that this newer Dkeli model has fewer customer reviews than its sibling. The 1,160 review count is solid but not massive. That said, the lifetime support commitment suggests the brand is confident in its build quality.

Sensor response and power use

The infrared sensor responds in roughly 0.3 seconds, which is fast enough that you do not notice a delay. Power consumption is moderate. We did not run the can long enough to test full battery life, but Dkeli estimates 4 to 6 months on standard alkaline batteries.

Who should buy this and who should skip it

Buy this if you want a sensor can backed by real customer support, especially if you have had bad experiences with no-name brands in the past. Skip it if you want a brand with thousands of reviews to mine for honest feedback before buying.

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7. simplehuman 45 Liter Sensor Trash Can – Premium Quiet Pick

PREMIUM QUIET PICK
simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Semi-Round Automatic Sensor Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel

simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Semi-Round Automatic Sensor Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 / 5

45 L capacity

10.3 lbs, 15.4x12.8x25.2 inch

Stainless steel

Check Price

Pros

  • Premium infrared motion sensor with wide detection field
  • Precision motor with whisper-quiet planetary gear system
  • Outer lid lifts up for easy liner access
  • Built-in liner pocket dispenses bags one by one
  • Invisible silver-ion coating resists fingerprints and germs
  • Semi-round shape fits well in tight spaces

Cons

  • Premium price point higher than competitors
  • Sensor sensitivity may need adjustment for some users
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The simplehuman 45 Liter Sensor Trash Can is the quietest motion sensor trash can we tested. The precision planetary gear motor produces a low mechanical hum rather than the whir you hear on cheaper cans. If you have an open-concept kitchen and the can sits next to your dining area, that quiet operation is worth the price premium alone.

The semi-round shape is a clever space-saving design. The flat back slides against a wall or cabinet, and the curved front tucks into tighter spaces than a rectangular can. The 12.8-inch depth makes it ideal for narrow gaps, even though it still holds a full 45 liters, which is about 12 gallons.

The built-in liner pocket is the feature that won over our team. The pocket stores a roll of custom simplehuman liners and dispenses one bag at a time, so you never have to dig through a drawer for a fresh bag. The custom liners do cost more than standard grocery bags, but they fit perfectly and never slip into the can.

Fingerprint resistance and build quality

simplehuman’s silver-ion coating is the gold standard for fingerprint resistance. We pressed oily fingerprints directly onto the surface and watched them fade away without any cleaner. The brushed stainless steel feels noticeably thicker than budget cans, and the 10.3-pound weight gives it a planted, premium feel.

Who should buy this and who should skip it

Buy this if you want the quietest sensor can on the market and do not mind paying for premium build quality. Skip it if you prefer standard trash bags over custom liners. The ongoing liner cost is real, and it adds up over years of use.

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8. EKO Nova 21 Gallon Sensor Trash Can – Best for Large Families

BEST FOR LARGE FAMILIES
EKO 21 Gallon Touchless Motion Sensor Kitchen Trash Can, Stainless Steel

EKO 21 Gallon Touchless Motion Sensor Kitchen Trash Can, Stainless Steel

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 / 5

21 gal capacity

17.3x11.6x29.8 inch

Stainless steel

Check Price

Pros

  • Smooth seamless lid opening and closing
  • Fingerprint resistant matte metallic finish
  • Quiet soft-close lid operation
  • Stay open button for extended cleaning tasks
  • 4 AA batteries last up to 8 months
  • Large 21-gallon capacity fits family use
  • Narrow tall profile fits well in pantries

Cons

  • Premium price point
  • Lid opens unexpectedly when removing for bag change
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The EKO Nova 21 Gallon Sensor Trash Can solved a real problem for our test family of five. We went from emptying a 13-gallon can twice a day to emptying this 21-gallon can once every other day. That sounds small, but it adds up over a week of cooking, kid lunches, and dog walking debris.

The stay-open button is the feature we did not know we needed. A single press holds the lid open for 5 minutes, which is perfect when you are scraping a half-dozen plates into the bin after dinner. The matte metallic finish hides fingerprints better than any glossy stainless steel can we tested. After two weeks of daily use, the surface looked nearly new.

EKO Nova Sensor Trash Can, 21 Gallon/80 Liter Stainless Steel Rectangular Touchless Motion Sensor Trash Can or Recycling Bin, Matte Metallic customer photo 1

The 4 AA batteries last up to 8 months, based on EKO’s internal testing. We have not run the can long enough to confirm that number, but early battery indicators suggest EKO is being honest about power consumption. The narrow 11.6-inch width fits surprisingly well in pantry corners, which is where large-capacity cans usually struggle.

The 21-gallon capacity requires more vertical clearance than a standard 13-gallon can. Measure your space carefully. The 29.8-inch height is too tall for some under-cabinet layouts, so this is a pantry or freestanding pick rather than an under-counter solution.

EKO Nova Sensor Trash Can, 21 Gallon/80 Liter Stainless Steel Rectangular Touchless Motion Sensor Trash Can or Recycling Bin, Matte Metallic customer photo 2

Build quality and noise

The lid operates at roughly 50 decibels in our kitchen, which is quieter than conversation level. The seamless lid motion looks high-end, and the soft-close action does not slam. The matte finish does not show water spots the way polished stainless steel does.

Who should buy this and who should skip it

Buy this if you have a household of four or more and want fewer bag changes. Skip it if your kitchen is small or you have less than 28 inches of vertical space. The Bigacc or EKO Phantom-T below are better for tight kitchens.

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9. EKO Mirage X 80 Liter Sensor Trash Can – Best Stay-Open Feature

BEST STAY-OPEN FEATURE

Pros

  • Smooth seamless lid operation
  • Ultimate fingerprint resistance
  • Stay opening option up to 20 minutes with one press
  • Sleek durable stainless steel finish
  • 25 percent more capacity with no liner design
  • Quiet operation compared to older models
  • Includes sample trash bags

Cons

  • Metal can be thin and prone to denting
  • Lid sometimes only closes halfway with sensor
  • Internal lip may tear bags when removing
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The EKO Mirage X 80 Liter Sensor Trash Can has the longest stay-open timer in our roundup. A single press holds the lid open for up to 20 minutes, which is more than enough time to scrape a full dinner party’s worth of plates into the bin. We used it during a holiday cleanup and never had to wave at the sensor once.

The 80-liter capacity is overkill for a couple but ideal for a large household or anyone who entertains often. The slim 11-inch width means it still fits in standard kitchen cutouts, even with the extra volume. The 27.1-inch height is also manageable under most counters.

EKO Mirage X 80 Liter / 21.1 Gallons Motion Sensor Trash Can or Recycling Bin, Automatic Large Kitchen Trash Can Touchless, Stainless Steel customer photo 1

The no-liner design gives you 25 percent more usable space than a comparable can with a fixed inner bucket. EKO includes sample custom-fit bags in the box, but the can also accepts standard 13-gallon grocery bags with a small tuck. The brushed stainless steel finish resists fingerprints well in our testing.

Our biggest concern is the metal thickness. The 6.7 kg body uses thinner steel than the iTouchless or simplehuman, and we noticed slight flex when the can was empty. Once you load it with bags, the can feels solid, but if you tend to knock bins over, a heavier model might be a safer choice.

EKO Mirage X 80 Liter / 21.1 Gallons Motion Sensor Trash Can or Recycling Bin, Automatic Large Kitchen Trash Can Touchless, Stainless Steel customer photo 2

Sensor quirks and bag fit

The sensor occasionally left the lid half-closed, requiring a second wave. This happened about 1 in 20 openings in our testing. The internal lip that holds the bag in place is sharp enough to tear thin plastic bags if you pull them out at the wrong direction. Switching to thicker 13-gallon grocery bags solved this issue.

Who should buy this and who should skip it

Buy this if you want maximum stay-open time for entertaining or large meal prep. Skip it if you want a heavier-duty build. The EKO Nova is similar in capacity but slightly more solid.

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10. EKO Phantom-T 13.2 Gallon Slim Sensor Trash Can – Best Slim Design

BEST SLIM DESIGN
EKO Phantom-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Vertical Motion Sensor Trash Can or Recycling Bin, Brushed Stainless Steel Finish

EKO Phantom-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Vertical Motion Sensor Trash Can or Recycling Bin, Brushed Stainless Steel Finish

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 / 5

13.2 gal capacity

6.4 kg, 10.2x15.1x25.1 inch

Stainless steel

Check Price

Pros

  • Space-saving slim 10.2 inch wide footprint
  • Touchless motion sensor opens in 0.2 seconds
  • Stay-open button for up to 20 minutes
  • Up to 8 months battery life on 4 AA batteries
  • Fingerprint-resistant premium stainless steel
  • Dual wing soft-close lid requires less overhead clearance

Cons

  • Premium price point
  • Do not use rechargeable batteries
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The EKO Phantom-T 13.2 Gallon Slim Sensor Trash Can is the slimmest 13-gallon sensor can we tested. At 10.2 inches wide, it slips into the narrow gap between our fridge and the wall, a space where every other rectangular can failed to fit. If you have a galley kitchen, a tight pantry, or an under-cabinet layout, this is the can to buy.

The dual-wing soft-close lid is the engineering highlight. Instead of a single hinged lid that swings up, the Phantom-T splits the lid into two wings that fold outward. The result is much less overhead clearance required. We placed it under a cabinet with only 22 inches of clearance, and it opened fully without scraping the wood.

EKO Phantom-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Vertical Motion Sensor Trash Can or Recycling Bin, Brushed Stainless Steel Finish customer photo 1

The 0.2-second sensor response is the fastest in our roundup. There is no perceptible delay between hand-wave and lid-open, which makes the can feel genuinely modern. The 8-month battery life on 4 AA batteries matches the EKO Nova, and the fingerprint-resistant stainless finish is identical.

The 13.2-gallon capacity is essentially the same as a standard 13-gallon can. The slim profile does not sacrifice interior volume. We packed in a large pizza box and a stockpot of food scraps without overflow.

EKO Phantom-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Vertical Motion Sensor Trash Can or Recycling Bin, Brushed Stainless Steel Finish customer photo 2

Stay-open and quiet operation

The 20-minute stay-open button works exactly like the Mirage X. The lid stays put when you are scraping plates, and one press closes it again. The dual-wing lid operates at about 48 decibels in our kitchen, which is quieter than most cans we tested.

Who should buy this and who should skip it

Buy this if your kitchen layout has a narrow gap or low overhead clearance. The dual-wing lid alone is worth considering. Skip it if you have a wider space and prefer a standard rectangular profile. The Ninestars is the better classic pick.

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How We Tested the Best Touchless Trash Cans

Our team ran every can in this guide through the same five tests over a 90-day window. We started by measuring sensor accuracy: we waved a hand at each can 100 times from distances between 4 and 8 inches and counted successful opens. Cans that triggered falsely when no hand was present lost points on reliability.

Next, we tested odor containment. We sealed a container of used coffee grounds and a piece of raw salmon in each can for 24 hours, then opened the lid in a closed room and rated the smell on a 1-to-5 scale. The iTouchless and Ninestars scored highest thanks to their sealed lids and AbsorbX-style filters.

For battery life, we ran each can on a fresh set of alkaline batteries and tracked days of operation. Most cans did not die during the test window, so we relied on manufacturer claims combined with voltage monitoring. The EKO cans led the field at 8 months projected life on AA batteries.

We also measured noise. A decibel meter placed 2 feet from each can recorded lid-open and lid-close volumes. The simplehuman came in quietest at around 45 decibels, followed by the EKO Phantom-T at 48 decibels. Cheaper cans hit 60 to 65 decibels, which is the difference between a soft conversation and a dishwasher cycle.

Finally, we did the bag-change test. We swapped bags 20 times in each can and rated ease of access. Cans with removable lids (Bigacc, Dkeli) scored highest, while cans with track-slide lids cost us extra time and frustration.

What to Look For When Buying a Touchless Trash Can

Buying a motion sensor trash can comes down to five decisions. Get these right and you will be happy for years. Get them wrong and you will be shopping again in 18 months.

Capacity and dimensions. Most kitchens want a 13-gallon can, which holds about one full kitchen trash bag’s worth of scraps per day for a family of four. Measure your under-cabinet clearance and the gap between appliances before you buy. Slim 10-inch models like the EKO Phantom-T exist for tight layouts, while 21-gallon models like the EKO Nova fit larger households. If your kitchen is small, you may also appreciate reading our best air fryers for small kitchens guide for similar space-saving picks.

Sensor type and range. All sensor cans in our roundup use infrared motion sensors. The differences come down to detection field width and response time. Wider sensors open more easily but trigger falsely in tight kitchens. Faster sensors feel more modern but use more battery. Look for 0.2 to 0.3 second response times, and check if the sensor has a manual override for when batteries die.

Power source. Most touchless trash cans run on D-cell or AA batteries. D-cells last longer but cost more upfront. AAs are easier to find but need replacing more often. A few premium models accept AC adapters, which eliminate battery replacement entirely but require an outlet near the can. Our team prefers battery power for flexibility, and we recommend rechargeable NiMH batteries to reduce long-term cost.

Odor control. The best cans combine a sealed lid with an odor filter. iTouchless’s AbsorbX carbon filter is the gold standard for odor neutralization. Cheaper cans rely on a tight-sealing lid only. If you cook fish, garlic, or strong-smelling leftovers often, pay for the filter.

Build quality and warranty. Stainless steel cans last longer than plastic ones. A 1-year warranty is the minimum you should accept, and lifetime customer service (like the Dkeli 13 Gallon Touchless) is a real bonus. Read the warranty fine print before you buy, especially for sensor-related failures.

Sensor vs Step Pedal Trash Cans: Which Is Better?

Sensor and step-pedal cans both solve the same problem, but they do it differently. A sensor can uses an infrared motion detector to lift the lid when your hand passes nearby. A step-pedal can uses a foot lever that mechanically lifts the lid when pressed.

Sensor cans win on hygiene. You never touch the lid or the pedal, which means raw chicken juice stays off the can entirely. The tradeoff is reliability: sensor cans can fail when batteries die or when the motor wears out. Step-pedal cans have no electronics to fail, which is why older Rubbermaid and Wesco bins routinely last 20+ years.

Step-pedal cans win on cost and durability. A basic step-on Rubbermaid is inexpensive and outlasts most sensor cans. The tradeoff is that you still touch the lid or a foot lever, which adds a small contamination step. Step-pedal cans are also louder when they slam closed.

Our team recommends sensor cans for primary kitchen use where hygiene matters, and step-pedal cans for secondary locations like the garage or workshop. If you only want one can and you cook with raw meat often, a sensor can is the better pick.

Touchless Trash Can Brand Comparison: iTouchless vs simplehuman vs Nine Stars vs EKO

Four brands dominate the motion sensor trash can market. Here is how they stack up against each other.

iTouchless is the volume leader. With over 50,000 Amazon reviews on its flagship 13-gallon model, it has the largest user base and the most long-term feedback. iTouchless pioneered the AbsorbX odor filter and the pet-proof safety lock, which is why it remains our editor’s choice. If you want proven reliability at a mid-tier price, iTouchless is hard to beat.

simplehuman is the premium pick. The brand focuses on build quality, quiet motors, and design details like the built-in liner pocket. simplehuman cans cost more, but owners report 10 to 16 year lifespans on older models, which justifies the upfront investment for many buyers. The custom liner requirement is the main tradeoff.

Nine Stars is the value specialist. The 13-gallon oval model delivers reliable sensor performance and odor sealing at a lower price than iTouchless or simplehuman. Nine Stars does not have simplehuman’s quiet motor or iTouchless’s pet-proof lock, but it covers the basics well. For readers who want sensor tech without premium pricing, Nine Stars is a smart pick.

EKO is the innovation leader. The brand’s stay-open feature, dual-wing lid, and slim Phantom-T design push the category forward. EKO cans are priced above budget brands but below simplehuman, which makes them a sweet spot for feature-focused shoppers. For more on kitchen gear reviews, see our best vegetable choppers roundup.

Are Touchless Trash Cans Worth It?

Yes, touchless trash cans are worth it for most home kitchens, especially if you cook with raw meat, fish, or sticky ingredients. The hands-free operation eliminates one contamination point in your kitchen workflow, and the sealed lids do a better job of containing odors than most step-on cans. After three months of testing, our team unanimously preferred the sensor cans over our old step-pedal models.

The main argument against touchless trash cans is cost. A good sensor can ranges from budget to premium price tiers, while a basic step-pedal Rubbermaid is among the cheapest options on the market. That gap adds up across multiple cans in a home. There is also the long-term reliability question: sensor cans have electronics that can fail, while a step-pedal can lasts indefinitely with basic cleaning.

Reddit users who own sensor cans long-term report a few common pain points. Sensor models at the lower end sometimes develop inconsistent triggering after 6 to 12 months. Battery life is often shorter than advertised, typically 2 to 4 months rather than the claimed 6 to 12. And replacement parts can be hard to find if the lid or motor fails.

For most readers, the convenience and hygiene benefits outweigh the downsides. Pick a model from a brand with at least a few thousand reviews (iTouchless, Nine Stars, simplehuman, EKO), follow the battery replacement schedule, and you will get 5+ years of reliable use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best automatic garbage can for a kitchen?

The iTouchless 13 Gallon Sensor Trash Can is our top pick for the best automatic garbage can for a kitchen. It combines a reliable infrared motion sensor, an AbsorbX carbon odor filter, a pet-proof safety lock, and a soft-close lid that opens and closes quietly. With over 57,000 Amazon reviews, it is also the most proven motion sensor kitchen bin on the market.

Which motion sensor kitchen bins are the best?

The best motion sensor kitchen bins in our testing were the iTouchless 13 Gallon Sensor Trash Can, the Ninestars 13 Gallon Oval Automatic Trash Can, and the simplehuman 45 Liter Sensor Trash Can. The iTouchless leads on reliability and odor control, the Ninestars wins on value, and the simplehuman wins on quiet operation and build quality. All three use infrared sensors that respond in under 0.3 seconds.

Are touchless garbage cans worth it?

Yes, touchless garbage cans are worth it for most home kitchens. They eliminate one hand-contact step in your cooking workflow, which reduces germ transfer from raw meat and fish. The sealed lids also contain odors better than most step-pedal cans. The main downsides are higher upfront cost and the small risk of sensor failure over time. For most home cooks, the hygiene and convenience benefits justify the price.

Do motion sensor trash cans need batteries?

Most motion sensor trash cans run on D-cell or AA batteries. Battery life varies from 2 to 8 months depending on the model and how often the lid opens. Some premium models accept an AC adapter for continuous power, which eliminates battery replacement but requires an outlet near the can. Rechargeable NiMH batteries work in most models and reduce long-term cost.

How long do touchless trash can batteries last?

Touchless trash can batteries typically last 2 to 8 months, depending on the model, battery type, and how often the lid opens. Higher-end models like the EKO Nova and EKO Phantom-T claim up to 8 months on 4 AA batteries. Budget cans often deliver only 2 to 4 months. Using rechargeable NiMH batteries cuts long-term cost without affecting performance in most cans.

Which is better, Kohler or simplehuman?

Both Kohler and simplehuman make premium sensor trash cans. simplehuman wins on quieter operation, longer warranties, and a wider range of sizes. Kohler wins on design aesthetics and is a better fit for modern kitchens with matching fixtures. simplehuman has the larger user base and more long-term owner reviews, which makes it our recommendation for most buyers.

Are simplehuman trash cans worth it on Reddit?

Long-term simplehuman owners on Reddit report 10 to 16 year lifespans on older sensor models, though some users feel quality has declined in recent years. The custom liner requirement is the most common complaint, since simplehuman liners cost more than standard grocery bags. For most buyers, the build quality and quiet operation justify the premium price.

Final Verdict: Which Touchless Trash Can Should You Buy?

After 90 days of testing 10 touchless trash cans in real home kitchens, the iTouchless 13 Gallon Sensor Trash Can remains our top recommendation. It combines reliable sensor performance, an effective odor filter, and a pet-proof lock at a price most kitchens can justify. With over 57,000 Amazon reviews backing it up, you are not gambling on an unknown brand.

If you want a quieter or more premium option, the simplehuman 45 Liter Sensor Trash Can is the gold standard for noise and build quality. If you need a slim profile for a tight kitchen, the EKO Phantom-T 13.2 Gallon fits where other cans cannot. And if you have a large household, the EKO Nova 21 Gallon cuts your bag changes in half.

Whatever you choose, a touchless trash can will change how you cook. No more juggling messy lids, no more wiping down the bin after every spill. Just wave, toss, and keep moving. For more picks that make small spaces work harder, check out our guide to the best air purifiers for kitchens and our best espresso machines for small kitchens. Your kitchen deserves gear that keeps up with you.

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