10 Best Pet Proof Garbage Cans 2025 in the United States

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 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 simplehuman 55 Liter Rectangular Step Trash Can is well-built with sturdy stainless steel, which is durable and easy to clean thanks to its fingerprint-proof coating. Its 14.5-gallon size is a good fit for medium to large households, providing ample capacity without being overly bulky. The step-on pedal is wide and strong, designed to last many years and allow hands-free opening, which is convenient when your hands are full. The lid features a slow, silent close that helps keep smells contained and prevents noisy slamming.

While the trash can has a secure liner rim to keep bags firmly in place and out of sight, it does not have a dedicated locking mechanism specifically designed to keep pets out. This means curious pets might still be able to get inside if they can lift or tip the lid. The rectangular shape is space-efficient for kitchens, and the liner pocket inside the can is a handy feature to store and dispense trash bags easily.

The brushed stainless steel material is modern and resistant to fingerprints, making it look clean longer and simplifying maintenance. Odor control mainly relies on the tight-fitting lid rather than any built-in filters or deodorizing systems. This trash can is a strong, stylish, and user-friendly choice for kitchens needing a reliable step-on can with good capacity and easy bag changes. However, if your main concern is preventing pets from opening the trash, you might want to consider a model with a more secure locking system.