The Best Hands Free Garbage Can, Buying Guide

Our pick: Kitchen Trash Can with Lid

After testing the Kitchen Trash Can with Lid for two weeks in a busy household kitchen, I was pleasantly surprised by its performance. While a trash can isn’t usually the centerpiece of a room, this model stands out for its thoughtful design and smart features. The automatic, touchless lid mechanism adds a level of convenience and hygiene I didn’t realize I needed until now. It operates quietly and efficiently, and its appearance is far from industrial—this is a product that blends into a modern kitchen with ease.

Pros:

• Touchless, hygienic operation

• Modern stainless steel finish

• Generous 13-gallon capacity

• Odor-sealing and easy to clean

Cons:

• Requires frequent battery changes with heavy use

This automatic trash can delivers both form and function. It's well-suited for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen or home workspace with a more hygienic and convenient waste solution. Overall, a strong performer that’s worth the investment.

Also great: Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can

After several weeks of daily use, the Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can set proves to be a dependable choice for busy households. With a simple rectangular shape and matte black finish, these cans are built for practicality more than aesthetics, but they get the job done. The Clorox Odor Protection in the lid is a standout feature, effectively managing smells in a way that’s noticeable and appreciated in a kitchen setting. The dual-pack offering is convenient, allowing you to place one in the kitchen and the other in a secondary space like a laundry room or garage.

Pros:

• Built-in Clorox odor protection

• Secure bag rings to hold liners in place

• Hands-free operation with step pedal

• Value-packed set of two cans

Cons:

• All-plastic build feels less premium

The Glad 13 Gallon Trash Can set offers strong value and solid performance for everyday use. While it may not win points for style or luxury, its thoughtful features and odor control make it a practical addition to any home. A reliable, no-fuss option.

Also great: Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can 

The Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can delivers where it matters most—durability, ease of use, and quiet operation. Over the course of several weeks, I found it to be a low-maintenance, reliable addition to both kitchen and office environments. The stainless steel exterior resists fingerprints surprisingly well, keeping the can looking clean with minimal effort. The soft-close lid and foot pedal work smoothly and silently, which is a small detail but one that adds to the overall experience.

Pros:

• Smudge-resistant stainless steel exterior

• Soft-close lid and quiet foot pedal

• Removable inner bucket with handle

• Practical 13.2-gallon capacity

Cons:

• Manual lid operation may not suit those seeking touchless features

For a straightforward, well-built trash can that doesn’t call attention to itself, the Amazon Basics model checks all the right boxes. It’s ideal for users who value clean design, quiet function, and everyday reliability. A smart, no-frills choice.

Source: Amazon

The most hygienic garbage cans are typically touchless models that use motion sensors to open and close the lid. These bins minimize contact with surfaces, reducing the spread of bacteria and viruses. Brands like Simplehuman and iTouchless offer top-rated hygienic trash cans featuring sealed lids, odor control systems, and fingerprint-resistant coatings. Stainless steel designs are also more sanitary compared to plastic because they are easier to clean and less likely to absorb odors.

Another key feature to look for is internal liners or compartments that make bag replacement less messy. Some models even come with antimicrobial coatings to further prevent germ buildup.

Who makes the best garbage can?

When it comes to high-quality garbage cans, Simplehuman consistently ranks at the top. Known for its innovative design and durability, the brand offers bins that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Their cans often feature soft-close lids, custom-fit liners, built-in deodorizer compartments, and motion sensors in higher-end models.

Other top manufacturers include:

• Brabantia – popular in Europe for its stylish, space-efficient bins.

• iTouchless – specializes in sensor-activated trash cans.

• Rubbermaid – known for durability and value, especially in commercial or heavy-duty use.

The "best" brand depends on your priorities: if you want something sleek and tech-savvy, go for Simplehuman. If you value design and eco-friendliness, Brabantia is worth considering.

Why is Simplehuman so expensive?

Simplehuman garbage cans come with a higher price tag because they emphasize design, engineering, and long-term usability. Here's why they cost more:

• Premium materials – Most are made from high-grade stainless steel, which is more durable and easier to clean than cheaper plastics.

• Advanced features – Many models offer touchless sensors, soft-close mechanisms, custom-fit liners, and built-in compartments for odor control.

• Design and aesthetics – Simplehuman products are designed to blend into modern homes with a minimalist, upscale look.

• Attention to detail – Features like silent lids, fingerprint-resistant finishes, and liner storage all add to the user experience.

In short, you're paying for quality craftsmanship, functionality, and sleek design—things that cheaper models often lack.

Why are Brabantia bins so expensive?

Brabantia bins are priced higher due to their European design standards, sustainable manufacturing, and long-lasting materials. Here’s what contributes to the cost:

• Stylish aesthetics – These bins often come in trendy colors and elegant finishes, making them almost a decor piece.

• Eco-friendly production – Brabantia focuses on sustainability, using recyclable materials and reducing carbon emissions in manufacturing.

• Durability – Their bins are made to last for years, with corrosion-resistant coatings and sturdy mechanisms.

• Thoughtful design – Features like quiet closing lids, space-saving shapes, and removable inner buckets make them user-friendly and functional.

You’re not just buying a trash can—you’re investing in a durable, environmentally conscious, and visually appealing product that enhances your space.

When it comes to choosing the best hands-free garbage can, it ultimately depends on your lifestyle, space, and preferences. Whether you value sleek design, sensor precision, odor control, or durability, there’s an option out there that checks all the boxes. A great hands-free trash can doesn’t just make waste disposal easier—it helps keep your home cleaner, more hygienic, and even a bit more high-tech. If you’re ready to upgrade your kitchen or office setup, investing in a quality touchless bin is a small change that can make a big difference.