The Best Buy Garbage Can, Expert Recommendations

Our pick: SONGMICS 13 Gallon (50 L) Trash Can

The SONGMICS 13 Gallon Trash Can strikes a solid balance between form and function. After two weeks of daily use in a medium-sized household kitchen, this unit has proven reliable, easy to use, and surprisingly good at keeping odors in check. Its minimalist stainless steel finish blends well with modern interiors, while thoughtful design features like the soft-close lid and inner bucket bag hole improve day-to-day convenience.

Pros:

• Smooth, quiet lid closure

• Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel body

• Pedal and hand-open dual-function lid

• Tidy bag management with hidden bag slot

Con:

• Inner bucket slightly reduces usable space

he SONGMICS 13 Gallon Trash Can is a well-designed and dependable option for those seeking a stylish yet practical waste solution. It fits well in tight kitchen corners, handles daily trash easily, and offers quality touches often missing in products at this price point.

Also great: Arlopu 13.2 Gal Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Lid

The Arlopu 13.2 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can is built with compact living in mind. After a full week of use in a small apartment kitchen, it has proven to be a practical solution for households that want a high-capacity trash can without sacrificing floor space. The slim design allows it to fit snugly between cabinets or in narrow corners, while the stainless steel finish adds a clean, modern touch to the space.

Pros:

• Space-saving slim profile

• Quiet-close lid with odor-blocking seal

• Fingerprint-resistant and easy to clean

• Removable inner bucket for hassle-free emptying

Con:

• Slightly lightweight lid may feel less sturdy over time

If you're looking for a trash can that maximizes capacity without crowding your kitchen, the Arlopu 13.2 Gallon model delivers. It’s discreet, functional, and easy to maintain—ideal for apartments, bedrooms, or any space-conscious setting.

Also great: EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter

The EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter Trash Can stands out as a premium waste solution designed for long-term reliability. After using it daily in a busy household kitchen, it consistently delivers a seamless user experience with quiet operation, solid construction, and user-friendly features. Its brushed stainless steel finish is both attractive and resistant to smudges, making it well-suited for modern interiors.

Pros:

• Sturdy, fingerprint-resistant stainless steel body

• Smooth, silent lid with long-lasting pedal mechanism

• Lid stay-open function for hands-free tasks

• Elevated inner bucket with handles for easy bag changes

Con:

• Larger footprint requires more floor space

The EKO Madison is a top-tier choice for those who prioritize durability and convenience in a kitchen trash can. It’s built to handle heavy, frequent use without losing its polished appearance or smooth performance. Ideal for families or shared spaces where functionality and design both matter.

Source: Amazon

At first glance, it might seem ridiculous to spend a lot on something that just holds trash. But when you dig a little deeper, the price makes more sense. High-quality garbage cans are built with durable materials like stainless steel or heavy-duty plastic that can withstand frequent use and resist rust, dents, and cracks. Many also feature motion sensors, soft-close lids, or odor-sealing technology—conveniences that add to the price tag.

Additionally, brands often invest in better design and engineering for functionality, like hands-free operation or tight-sealing lids that keep pests out. You're not just paying for a bin—you're paying for something that makes everyday life cleaner and easier.

How Often Should You Clean Your Garbage Can?

Ideally, you should give your garbage can a thorough cleaning at least once a month. If you're tossing away especially messy or smelly waste (think raw meat, diapers, or food scraps), it’s a good idea to rinse or disinfect the bin more frequently—every two weeks or even weekly in warmer months.

Neglecting to clean your bin can lead to bacteria buildup, strong odors, and even attract bugs or rodents. A quick rinse with soap and water, followed by a disinfecting spray or bleach solution, can go a long way toward keeping things sanitary.

What Is the Best Garbage Can for Odor Control?

If odor control is your top priority, look for a garbage can with a tightly sealing lid and built-in deodorizing features. Stainless steel models tend to trap less smell than plastic, and some even come with charcoal filters or compartments for odor-absorbing pods.

Brands like simplehuman, Rubbermaid, and iTouchless are known for making cans specifically designed to fight odors. Touchless lids are also a bonus since they limit how often you have to physically touch the can, reducing the spread of germs.

How Can I Keep My Garbage Can From Smelling?

The key to odor control is consistency. Start by always using trash bags and make sure they’re not leaking. Tie them off tightly before removing them. If something spills inside the can, clean it as soon as possible.

You can also add a layer of baking soda at the bottom of the bin to neutralize odors, or drop in a dryer sheet or charcoal deodorizer. Some people even use coffee grounds or citrus peels for a natural fresh scent.

Keeping the lid closed, storing the bin in a shaded area, and avoiding food waste sitting for too long are other smart habits to prevent unwanted smells.

If you're looking for a reliable, well-built garbage can that strikes the right balance between price, function, and design, this one is a solid pick. It handles daily use without fuss, keeps odors in check, and doesn't look out of place in a modern kitchen or garage. While no trash can is perfect, this one comes close—especially at this price point. Definitely worth considering if you want something that just works.