The 10 Best Trash Can With Lid, According to Experts

Our pick: Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can

After testing the Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can, I found it to be a well-designed and practical solution for home or office waste disposal. The build quality is solid, the design is modern, and the features cater well to daily use. It fits easily into most kitchen or office spaces without looking bulky. While it doesn’t include some high-tech additions seen in premium models, it delivers consistent performance and good value for its price point.

Pros

• Smudge-resistant stainless steel exterior

• Quiet, soft-close lid with manual foot pedal

• Removable inner bucket with handle

• Stay-open lid for longer tasks

Con

• No built-in odor control

This trash can combines functionality and durability in a clean, minimalist package. If you're looking for a mid-range option that’s easy to maintain and blends into most environments, this is a solid pick.

Also great: Home Zone Living 8 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can

The Home Zone Living 8 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can performs reliably and is well-suited for homes or offices with limited space. During testing, it stood out for its compact footprint, user-friendly features, and silent operation. While not designed for heavy-duty use, its thoughtful design elements make it a smart choice for day-to-day residential use, especially in tighter areas like bathrooms, laundry rooms, or small kitchens.

Pros

• Slim, space-saving design

• Quiet slow-close lid

• Easy bag installation with rubber band system

• Removable inner bucket for convenient cleaning

Con

• Limited capacity for high-traffic areas

This trash can delivers solid functionality in a compact, understated form. Ideal for anyone needing a quiet, space-efficient solution without compromising on design.

Also great: simplehuman 50 Liter

The simplehuman 50 Liter Plastic Trash Can offers a practical blend of capacity, functionality, and quiet operation. After testing, it proved especially effective in high-traffic, family environments thanks to its secure lid lock and generous volume. The semi-round design is space-efficient while still providing ample room for daily waste. While made of plastic rather than stainless steel, it feels sturdy and well-built, with thoughtful features that enhance usability.

Pros

• Silent-close lid with patented technology

• Lid lock to keep pets and children out

• Stay-open lid for extended use

• Large capacity for family or shared spaces

Con

• Plastic body less premium than metal alternatives

This is a strong choice for families or shared living situations needing a high-capacity, user-friendly trash can. It may lack the polish of stainless steel models, but it makes up for it in functionality and thoughtful design.

Source: Amazon

A trash can lid is the cover placed on top of a trash can to keep odors contained and prevent trash from spilling out. It serves both hygienic and practical purposes. By sealing off the contents, the lid helps block unpleasant smells and keeps pests like flies or raccoons away. Trash can lids come in various styles — from basic lift-off types to advanced motion-sensor or step-operated lids. Many modern designs are also built to minimize noise, using soft-close mechanisms for a more refined experience. Whether you're dealing with kitchen waste or outdoor garbage, a good lid is key to keeping things neat and sanitary.

What do the British call trash cans?

In the United Kingdom, what Americans call a "trash can" is typically referred to as a "bin" or "rubbish bin." If it's used outdoors, you might also hear "wheelie bin," which refers to large plastic bins on wheels commonly used for curbside collection. In daily conversation, the term "dustbin" is also still used, especially in more traditional settings. The vocabulary difference is a classic example of how British and American English can diverge in everyday terms, even when they refer to the same object.

Why is SimpleHuman so expensive?

SimpleHuman products, including their trash cans, are priced at a premium for several reasons. First, the brand focuses heavily on design — their products are sleek, modern, and often built from high-quality materials like stainless steel. Second, many of their trash cans include high-end features such as motion sensors, custom-fit liners, and silent-close lids, all aimed at improving user experience. Additionally, SimpleHuman emphasizes durability and long-term value. Rather than buying a cheap plastic can that may break in a year, many consumers are willing to invest in a product that lasts much longer. You're not just paying for a bin — you're paying for thoughtful engineering, superior materials, and a minimalist aesthetic.

What's the difference between a trash bin and a trash can?

In American English, "trash bin" and "trash can" are often used interchangeably, but there can be subtle differences depending on context. Generally, "trash can" is more commonly used and typically refers to a container with a lid, often made of metal or plastic, used indoors or outdoors. A "trash bin," on the other hand, can sometimes imply a smaller or simpler container, and the term is more often used in professional or commercial settings — like an office or warehouse.

In casual conversation, you'll likely hear "trash can" more often in the U.S., while "bin" is more standard in British English. But overall, the difference is more about regional usage and context than about function.

Choosing the right trash can with a lid might seem like a small decision, but it can make a big difference in keeping your space clean, odor-free, and organized. Whether you're looking for something sleek for your kitchen, sturdy for the garage, or compact for the bathroom, there's an option out there that fits your needs. The models we’ve covered offer a good balance of durability, design, and convenience—so you can toss your trash without a second thought. Ultimately, the best choice comes down to your space, lifestyle, and how much convenience you’re looking for.