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10 Best Sensor Trash Cans 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Semi-Round Automatic Sensor Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,213
Sensor Range
Additional Features

Most important from
5282 reviews

Sensor Range
The sensor is incredibly smart, keeping the lid open as long as you're standing in front of it.
Additional Features
The liner pocket is extremely convenient, saving cupboard space and making bag changes a breeze.

The simplehuman 45 Liter Semi-Round Automatic Sensor Trash Can is a great option for those looking for a convenient and stylish waste disposal solution, especially in kitchens. Its motion sensor feature allows for hands-free operation, which is ideal for busy households or during cooking when your hands might be messy. The can opens quietly and smoothly, thanks to its precision motor, which adds to the experience of using it.

With a capacity of 45 liters, it can hold a good amount of waste, making it suitable for families or frequent use. The brushed stainless steel material not only looks sleek but also has an invisible coating that resists fingerprints and germs, keeping it cleaner over time.

One of the standout features is the liner pocket, which allows for easy access to trash liners, enabling quicker changes without fumbling. The lid mechanism is designed for easy access too, as the outer lid lifts up for added convenience. It does require four AA batteries for the sensor to function, which means you'll need to keep an eye on battery life. Depending on usage, this could lead to extra costs or hassle if batteries are frequently needed. Additionally, while the 45-liter capacity is ample, some may find it slightly large for smaller kitchens or limited spaces.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,213
Sensor Range
Additional Features

Most important from
5282 reviews

Sensor Range
The sensor is incredibly smart, keeping the lid open as long as you're standing in front of it.
Additional Features
The liner pocket is extremely convenient, saving cupboard space and making bag changes a breeze.
#2

EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel Finish

Rating
10.0
Material
Lid Mechanism
Additional Features

Most important from
9659 reviews

Material
The sleek design and fingerprint-resistant finish keep it looking clean and stylish in the kitchen.
Lid Mechanism
The lid works perfectly every time, closing slowly and quietly, adding to the premium feel.
Additional Features
This trash can is shockingly quiet and the stay-open feature is a game changer, especially when scraping plates.

The EKO Mirage-T Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can is a solid choice for anyone looking to add convenience and style to their kitchen waste management. With a generous capacity of 50 liters (about 13.2 gallons), it offers 25% more space thanks to its no-liner design, making it suitable for families or those who generate a lot of waste. The brushed stainless steel finish not only gives it a sleek look but also features advanced fingerprint resistance, so it stays smudge-free and visually appealing, which is a great advantage for maintaining a clean kitchen environment.

The premium motion sensor technology allows for hands-free operation, making it easy to dispose of waste without touching the can, which is especially beneficial when your hands are full or messy. The lid opens and closes smoothly and quietly, adding to the user experience.

One notable strength is its long-lasting power; the trash can runs on AA alkaline batteries and can last up to 8 months with regular use. This is eco-friendly and budget-friendly, reducing the hassle of frequent battery replacements. However, it’s important to consider some drawbacks. While the stainless steel finish is stylish and durable, it might be more susceptible to dents compared to plastic alternatives. Additionally, being an automatic trash can, it requires batteries, which means there’s an ongoing cost that could add up, especially if the sensor is frequently triggered.

Rating
10.0
Material
Lid Mechanism
Additional Features

Most important from
9659 reviews

Material
The sleek design and fingerprint-resistant finish keep it looking clean and stylish in the kitchen.
Lid Mechanism
The lid works perfectly every time, closing slowly and quietly, adding to the premium feel.
Additional Features
This trash can is shockingly quiet and the stay-open feature is a game changer, especially when scraping plates.
#3

EKO Mirage X 80 Liter / 21.1 Gallons Motion Sensor Trash Can, Automatic Large Kitchen Trash Can Touchless, Stainless Steel

Rating
10.0
Capacity
Material
Lid Mechanism

Most important from
9659 reviews

Capacity
The large 80-liter capacity means you only need one trash can, even for bigger households.
Material
Fingerprint-resistant finish keeps the can looking clean and stylish without constant cleaning.
Lid Mechanism
The stay-open feature is a game changer, making it easier to scrape plates without rushing.

The EKO Mirage X 80 Liter Motion Sensor Trash Can is designed to enhance your waste disposal experience with its sleek and practical features. Its premium motion sensor technology allows for hands-free operation, making it easy to dispose of trash without touching the lid. This feature is particularly beneficial in a kitchen setting, where hygiene is important. One significant advantage is its fingerprint-resistant brushed stainless steel finish, which ensures that the exterior remains clean and stylish, reducing the need for frequent cleaning. Another useful feature is the stay-open option that allows you to keep the lid open for 20 minutes—ideal when you're handling multiple items or need to dispose of trash continuously.

In terms of capacity, the can holds an impressive 80 liters (21.1 gallons), providing 25% more space than traditional designs, which is great for larger households or those who frequently entertain guests. Its durable construction and modern aesthetic make it a fitting addition to any kitchen.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the motion sensor is generally smooth, some users might experience occasional delays or misfires, which can be frustrating. Additionally, its reliance on batteries can be a downside if you prefer a plug-in power source. Although it doesn’t require assembly, it does have some weight to it (14.6 pounds), which could pose a challenge when moving it around.

Rating
10.0
Capacity
Material
Lid Mechanism

Most important from
9659 reviews

Capacity
The large 80-liter capacity means you only need one trash can, even for bigger households.
Material
Fingerprint-resistant finish keeps the can looking clean and stylish without constant cleaning.
Lid Mechanism
The stay-open feature is a game changer, making it easier to scrape plates without rushing.

Buying Guide for the Best Sensor Trash Cans

Choosing the right sensor trash can can make your daily waste disposal more convenient and hygienic. Sensor trash cans use motion sensors to open and close the lid automatically, reducing the need for physical contact and helping to maintain a cleaner environment. When selecting a sensor trash can, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs.
CapacityCapacity refers to the volume of waste the trash can can hold, usually measured in liters or gallons. This is important because it determines how often you'll need to empty the trash can. Smaller capacities (around 8-12 liters) are suitable for personal or office use, while medium capacities (13-20 liters) are good for kitchens or small families. Larger capacities (21 liters and above) are ideal for bigger households or areas with high waste production. Choose a capacity based on the amount of waste you typically generate and the frequency with which you want to empty the trash can.
Sensor RangeSensor range is the distance at which the sensor can detect motion to open the lid. This is important because it affects the ease of use and convenience. A shorter sensor range (around 6-8 inches) requires you to be closer to the trash can, which might be suitable for smaller spaces. A medium range (9-12 inches) offers a balance between convenience and space efficiency. A longer range (13 inches and above) is ideal for larger kitchens or areas where you might approach the trash can with full hands. Consider your typical usage scenario to determine the best sensor range for you.
Power SourceSensor trash cans can be powered by batteries or an AC adapter. This is important because it affects the convenience and placement of the trash can. Battery-powered models offer more flexibility in placement since they don't need to be near an outlet, but you'll need to replace or recharge the batteries periodically. AC-powered models provide continuous power without the need for battery changes, but they need to be placed near an electrical outlet. Choose a power source based on your preference for convenience and the layout of your space.
MaterialThe material of the trash can affects its durability, appearance, and ease of cleaning. Common materials include plastic, stainless steel, and metal. Plastic is lightweight and affordable, making it suitable for less demanding environments. Stainless steel is more durable, resistant to odors, and has a sleek appearance, making it ideal for kitchens and high-traffic areas. Metal offers a balance between durability and cost. Consider where you will place the trash can and how much wear and tear it will endure to choose the right material.
Lid MechanismThe lid mechanism refers to how the lid opens and closes. This is important for ensuring smooth operation and minimizing noise. Some lids open and close quietly, which is ideal for households with children or pets. Others have a slower or faster opening speed, which can affect convenience. Look for a lid mechanism that operates smoothly and quietly to enhance your overall experience. Consider your household dynamics and preferences for noise levels when choosing the lid mechanism.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can enhance the functionality and convenience of the sensor trash can. These may include deodorizing systems to control odors, removable inner buckets for easy cleaning, and manual override options for when the sensor is not needed. Some models also have a fingerprint-resistant coating to keep the exterior looking clean. Think about which additional features would be most beneficial for your lifestyle and choose a model that offers those enhancements.

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