10 Best Bathroom Trash Bin, Tested & Review

Our pick: 2 Pack 2.7 Gal Bathroom Trash Can with Lid

The 2 Pack 2.7 Gal Bathroom Trash Can with Lid by Vanpopubs offers a sleek, space-saving solution for small spaces, especially bathrooms. With its smart motion sensor, waterproof design, and easy-to-clean build, it brings both form and function into daily use. After testing both units over the course of a week, their performance has been consistently reliable with a quick sensor response and secure lid closure. However, proper setup is key, and the height clearance requirement may limit placement options.

Pros:

• Fast and accurate motion sensor response

• Slim design ideal for tight spaces

• Waterproof and easy to clean

• "Always Open" mode for convenience during extended use

Cons:

• Not suitable for under-sink or low-clearance areas

If you're looking for a compact, modern, and touchless trash can for your bathroom or office, this 2.7-gallon sensor bin performs impressively well. It’s thoughtfully designed for convenience and hygiene, though it’s best placed in open areas due to its motion sensor clearance needs. Overall, a solid value for its functionality and style.

Also great: simplehuman 4.5 Liter / 1.2 Gallon Round Bathroom Step Trash Can

The simplehuman 4.5 Liter / 1.2 Gallon Round Bathroom Step Trash Can is a thoughtfully engineered product that balances durability, function, and style in a compact design. After a week of daily use, this trash can proves ideal for tight bathroom spaces, with a well-calibrated step pedal and whisper-quiet lid that stands out in day-to-day convenience. The construction quality is impressive, with a solid feel and a sleek, smudge-resistant finish that keeps it looking clean with minimal effort.

Pros:

• Long-lasting steel pedal

• Silent, soft-close lid

• Removable inner bucket

• Non-skid base and fingerprint-proof finish

Cons:

• Small capacity may require more frequent emptying

This simplehuman step can is a great pick for bathrooms or any small area where space and silence matter. While the capacity is modest, its premium construction, ease of use, and low-maintenance design make it a smart, durable investment for everyday use.

Also great: TrashAid Slim Bathroom Trash Can with Lid Soft Close

The TrashAid Slim Bathroom Trash Can with Lid delivers both form and function, offering a retro-inspired design that enhances any room while meeting daily needs quietly and efficiently. After testing it in a small bathroom and office corner, the trash can performs well—particularly in odor control and silent operation. Its build quality and design aesthetics set it apart from standard plastic bins.

Pros:

• Decorative embossed stainless steel finish

• Space-saving slim profile

• Quiet soft-close lid with stay-open function

• Fingerprint-resistant and easy to clean

Cons:

• Limited capacity for high-traffic areas

TrashAid’s slim trash can is an ideal choice for those seeking a compact, stylish, and quiet solution for bathrooms or other small spaces. It manages to blend design appeal with practical features like odor control and easy maintenance, making it a smart upgrade over basic bins.

Source: Amazon

Most bathroom trash cans range from 1.2 to 2.6 gallons in capacity. The ideal size depends on your bathroom’s usage and available space.

• For powder rooms or guest bathrooms, a small 1.2 to 1.5-gallon bin is usually enough.

• In shared or master bathrooms, where tissues, cotton swabs, and hygiene products accumulate faster, a 2 to 2.6-gallon trash can is more practical.

Compact designs that fit under the sink or next to the toilet are popular, as they keep the space tidy without taking up too much room.

How do you clean a bathroom trash can?

Cleaning your bathroom trash can regularly helps prevent odor and bacteria buildup. Here's how to do it:

1. Empty the trash can and remove the liner if you use one.

2. Rinse it with hot water to remove any residue.

3. Scrub the interior with a sponge or brush using a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap (or white vinegar for natural cleaning).

4. For stubborn odors or grime, sprinkle baking soda inside and let it sit for 15 minutes before scrubbing.

5. Rinse thoroughly, dry with a clean cloth, or let it air dry completely before adding a new liner.

6. If the bin has a lid or foot pedal, don’t forget to clean those areas too—germs love to hide there.

Aim to clean your bathroom trash can at least once a week, or more often if it’s used heavily.

Why do you need a trash can in the bathroom?

A trash can in the bathroom isn’t just about convenience—it’s about hygiene and practicality. Bathrooms generate small but frequent waste like:

• Tissues and cotton pads

• Dental floss and cotton swabs

• Packaging from toiletries

• Feminine hygiene products

Without a trash can, users are more likely to flush non-flushable items down the toilet, which can lead to plumbing issues. Having a designated bin keeps your bathroom cleaner, more organized, and prevents unnecessary mess.

What size bag for bathroom trash can?

For most bathroom trash cans, 2 to 4-gallon trash bags are the best fit.
Here’s a general guide based on trash can capacity:

• 1.2 – 1.5 gallon can: Use a 2-gallon bag

• 2 – 2.6 gallon can: Go for a 4-gallon bag

It’s okay to use a slightly larger bag than your can’s capacity—just tuck the excess neatly under the rim. Choose drawstring liners or those with odor control for extra cleanliness and ease of use.

In the end, finding the best bathroom trash bin comes down to a mix of function, size, and style. Whether you prefer a sleek stainless-steel design or a simple plastic model with a lid, the right bin can make a big difference in your daily routine. Think about your space, how often you take out the trash, and whether features like a foot pedal or odor control matter to you. With the right pick, even this small detail can elevate your bathroom’s cleanliness and comfort.