10 Best Trash Cans 2026 in the United States

The Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can is designed to fit comfortably in both home and office settings with its 13.2-gallon capacity, making it suitable for moderate daily use. Its brushed stainless steel exterior is not only aesthetically pleasing with a satin nickel finish but also smudge-resistant, ensuring it remains clean and presentable. The rectangular shape maximizes space efficiency, fitting well in tight corners or against walls. The lid has a stay-open feature, which is handy for prolonged use during tasks like cooking or cleaning. Additionally, the soft-close mechanism provides quiet operation, preventing disturbances in a peaceful environment.

The foot pedal allows hands-free access, adding to its convenience. The inner bucket is made of heavy-duty plastic and is removable, making trash disposal and liner changes straightforward. The carry handle further enhances ease of mobility, though it lacks wheels, which may limit its portability across large spaces. Despite its robust construction, it does not feature any specific odor control mechanisms, which could be a drawback for users needing to manage strong smells efficiently.

This trash can is highly durable, but the lack of specialized odor control might not make it the best choice for kitchens or areas with high waste odor potential.

The simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Rectangular Step Trash Can is a solid choice for kitchens needing moderate waste capacity. Its size is just right for small families or anyone who wants to avoid frequent emptying. The brushed stainless steel body gives it a modern look and good durability, resisting dents and fingerprints, while the plastic lid adds some lightweight flexibility. The rectangular shape fits well against most walls or cabinets, saving space. The step-on pedal is sturdy and designed to last many years, and the soft-close lid means no loud banging sounds, which is nice for quiet kitchens.

It also has a clever liner rim that keeps trash bags hidden and firmly in place, along with a built-in liner dispenser for easy bag changes. Odor control is addressed with an included Odorsorb Pod, which helps reduce smells but might need replacement over time. One small downside is that, while it’s portable, it’s a bit heavier than plastic-only cans due to the steel, making it less convenient to move frequently. Also, the plastic lid, though dent-proof and easy to clean, may not feel as premium as the steel body. For those seeking a reliable, stylish trash can that balances durability and ease of use, this model stands out, especially in kitchens where quiet operation and neat appearance matter.

This Rubbermaid 7-gallon trash can is a solid choice for indoor spaces like bedrooms, bathrooms, or offices. Its size is compact enough to fit under most desks or sinks, making it ideal for small areas where space is limited. Made of durable plastic with rolled rims, it’s easy to clean and resistant to rust, which adds to its longevity. The open-top design means no lid, so it’s easy to toss trash in quickly, but this also means odors aren’t controlled, which could be a downside if you want to keep smells contained.

Its rectangular shape helps it fit neatly into corners or tight spaces, and the stackable design is handy for storage or transport if you buy multiple cans. However, this model lacks wheels or handles, so moving it around isn’t very convenient. The product is quite lightweight at 1.6 pounds, which helps with portability but might make it less stable if overfilled.

This trash can is best suited for indoor use where odor control and mobility are not top priorities. Its durability and size make it a practical option for offices and home rooms.