10 The Best Trash Can For Apartment, Expert Reviews

Our pick: Kitchen Trash Can with Lid

After several weeks of daily use, the 13-Gallon Automatic Kitchen Trash Can has proven to be a practical and well-designed waste management solution. It combines touchless functionality with a sleek, stainless steel build, making it suitable not only for kitchens but also for offices, bathrooms, and bedrooms. The motion sensor works reliably, and the bin holds a standard 13-gallon bag without any issues. While it’s clearly optimized for convenience and aesthetics, there are a few considerations that may matter depending on your space and needs.

Pros

• Reliable touchless sensor mechanism

• Fingerprint-resistant, easy-to-clean exterior

• Large 13-gallon capacity

• Modern and minimalistic design

Cons

• Requires regular battery replacements

Overall, this automatic trash can delivers solid performance with a strong balance of form and function. It’s a worthwhile upgrade for anyone looking to add convenience and hygiene to their home or office setup.

Also great: NINESTARS DZT-50-28 Automatic Touchless Motion Sensor

The NINESTARS DZT-50-28 Automatic Touchless Trash Can stands out as a reliable and user-friendly choice for those seeking convenience and hygiene in waste disposal. With a generous 13-gallon capacity and a sleek stainless steel body, this model combines functionality with modern design. In testing, the motion sensor responded quickly and accurately, and the quiet-close lid contributed to a seamless daily experience. Features like the removable ring liner and fingerprint-resistant finish make it practical for regular household use.

Pros

• Effective motion sensor with delay technology

• Quiet lid operation for longer product life

• Sturdy bag liner ring for clean appearance

• Fingerprint- and moisture-resistant build

Cons

• Requires 2 D batteries (not included)

The NINESTARS DZT-50-28 offers a thoughtful balance of performance and design, ideal for anyone looking to streamline kitchen or office cleanup. Its advanced sensor and easy maintenance features make it a dependable addition to any modern space.

Also great: Glad 20 Gallon Trash Can - Plastic Kitchen Waste Bin

The Glad 20-Gallon Plastic Kitchen Trash Can is a solid, practical choice for households or offices that require high-capacity waste management. During extended testing, its step-on foot pedal proved to be sturdy and responsive, offering convenient hands-free access. The matte black plastic build is durable and easy to wipe clean, while the integrated Clorox Odor Protection on the lid helps minimize unpleasant smells. Though the design is basic, it delivers reliable functionality at scale.

Pros

• Generous 20-gallon capacity

• Built-in Clorox odor-blocking lid

• Sturdy step-on pedal for hands-free use

• Internal bag ring keeps liners secure

Cons

• Plastic construction feels less premium

The Glad 20-Gallon Trash Can is well-suited for users prioritizing capacity, hygiene, and ease of use. It may not offer the sleek look of stainless steel models, but its odor protection and functional design make it a dependable workhorse for busy kitchens or shared spaces.

Source: Amazon

In everyday American English, "trash can" and "garbage bin" are often used interchangeably to refer to containers used for waste disposal. However, there are some subtle differences in usage and regional preferences:

• "Trash can" is more commonly used in the United States. It typically refers to a container—often with a lid—used for holding dry waste, such as paper, packaging, or general household rubbish.

• "Garbage bin" is a broader term and can be used for any kind of waste, including wet kitchen waste like food scraps. While it's less frequently used in everyday American speech, it's still understood and occasionally appears in more formal or descriptive contexts.

In short, both terms refer to waste containers, but "trash can" is more common in American homes, while "garbage bin" may be used more generically or in other English-speaking regions.

Does IKEA sell garbage cans?

Yes, IKEA sells a wide variety of garbage cans, both for indoor and outdoor use. Their product line includes:

• Kitchen trash cans: Often designed with functionality in mind, many include features like foot pedals, soft-close lids, or built-in compartments for recycling.

• Bathroom waste bins: Typically smaller in size, these are minimalist in design and come in various finishes like stainless steel, plastic, or powder-coated metal.

• Recycling bins: IKEA also offers modular recycling solutions, making it easy for customers to separate different types of waste at home.

• Under-sink bins: Space-saving models specifically designed to fit under kitchen sinks or in small cabinets.

IKEA’s garbage cans tend to be modern, functional, and affordable, in keeping with the company’s design philosophy.

What do British people call a trashcan?

In the United Kingdom, the equivalent of a trashcan is usually called a "bin" or more specifically a "rubbish bin". Depending on the context, other common terms include:

• "Dustbin" – This is a traditional British term, especially used in older or more formal contexts.

• "Wheelie bin" – A large outdoor bin with wheels, typically used for curbside waste collection.

• "Litter bin" – A public bin used for disposing of small items of waste like wrappers or cups.

While “trashcan” is understood due to exposure to American media, it’s rarely used by British speakers.

Is trashcan American or British?

The word "trashcan" is distinctly American English. In the United States, it’s the standard term for a container used to hold waste, especially in homes, offices, or public spaces.

In contrast, British English prefers terms like "bin", "rubbish bin", or "dustbin". The difference reflects broader vocabulary variations between American and British English, similar to how Americans say "elevator" while the British say "lift".

So, if you're writing for an American audience, "trashcan" is the most familiar and appropriate term. For British readers, "bin" or "rubbish bin" would be the better choice.