10 Best Pet Proof Garbage Cans 2025 in the United States

The EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter trash can features a modern motion sensor lid that opens and closes hands-free, which helps keep pets from easily accessing your garbage. Its stainless steel body is stylish and fingerprint-resistant, helping it stay clean and smudge-free—a useful feature for kitchens. With a 50-liter capacity and a rectangular shape, it offers ample space for daily household waste and fits well in most kitchen corners. The lid closes quietly and can stay open when needed, adding convenience.

This model does not include a specific locking mechanism to secure against persistent pets, which might be a consideration for households with clever or determined animals. The design lacks a liner, which increases capacity but may make cleaning more challenging, especially if spills occur inside. The stainless steel material is durable and somewhat odor-resistant, although it does not incorporate specialized odor control features like carbon filters.

Battery-powered operation is efficient, with batteries lasting up to eight months before needing replacement. This trash can is well-suited for typical kitchens and offers some pet-proof benefits due to the sensor lid, but those with very determined pets may want to consider models with more secure locking systems.

The EKO Phantom-T 50 Liter trash can is a modern, sensor-activated bin designed for kitchen use. Its standout feature is the motion-sensor lid, which opens and closes smoothly without needing to touch the can—this is hygienic and convenient. Made of brushed stainless steel, it resists fingerprints, helping the exterior stay clean and stylish, which is handy if you have pets that might brush against it. The vertical, slim design saves floor space, and the dual-wing lid requires less overhead clearance, making it suitable for tighter areas. At 13.2 gallons, it offers generous capacity, especially as its non-liner design allows 25% more usable space.

The bin doesn’t have a traditional locking mechanism, which may be a downside for those with persistent, clever pets who can open lids. Odor control isn’t specifically enhanced beyond the closed lid, so strong smells might still escape if the bin isn’t emptied regularly. Cleaning should be straightforward thanks to the stainless steel and removable lid, but the sensor mechanism means you’ll want to avoid water getting inside the electronics. Battery life is good, lasting up to 8 months on AA batteries, so maintenance is low. This trash can is best suited for pet owners who want a clean, hands-free option and are confident their pets won’t figure out the sensor lid. For those needing a fully lockable bin for very determined animals, this might not meet their needs.

The Glad Kitchen Trash Can is a 20-gallon plastic bin that fits nicely in most kitchens or office spaces thanks to its moderate rectangular size. Its step-on foot pedal allows hands-free lid opening, which is convenient and helps keep messes contained. The lid features Clorox Odor Protection, a strong plus for controlling smell, especially in a kitchen setting.

The interior bag rings keep trash bags securely in place, preventing slips and the hassle of adjusting the bag frequently. The plastic material is lightweight and easy to clean, though it may not be as durable or chew-resistant as metal options.

This trash can is a solid choice for families or offices wanting a reliable, medium-capacity bin with good odor control and hands-free use.