Table of Contents
Introduction
A trash can may not be the most exciting kitchen product, but the right one can make your home cleaner, more hygienic, and easier to manage every day. If you cook often, have kids, deal with food scraps, or simply want a cleaner kitchen setup, a motion sensor trash can can be a smart upgrade.
Unlike regular trash cans, motion sensor trash cans open automatically when you wave your hand near the lid. This means you do not have to touch the lid with dirty hands while cooking, cleaning, or throwing away messy waste. They are especially useful in kitchens, bathrooms, offices, laundry rooms, and shared spaces where hygiene matters.
The best motion sensor trash cans in 2026 offer more than just automatic opening. Many models now include fingerprint-resistant stainless steel, odor filters, removable liner rings, quiet lids, battery-saving sensors, manual open modes, and large 13-gallon or 50-liter capacities. Some premium models even include voice control and built-in liner storage.
In this 2026 updated guide, we review the top 5 best motion sensor trash cans so you can choose the right one for your kitchen, home, office, or apartment.
Quick Comparison: Best Motion Sensor Trash Cans 2026
| Rank | Product | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | simplehuman 58L Voice + Motion Sensor Can | Best overall premium motion sensor trash can |
| 2 | iTouchless 13 Gallon Oval Sensor Trash Can | Best odor-control motion sensor trash can |
| 3 | NINESTARS DZT-50-28 Automatic Touchless Trash Can | Best value 13-gallon sensor trash can |
| 4 | EKO Mirage-T Motion Sensor Trash Can | Best modern stainless steel design |
| 5 | Glad Stainless Steel Motion Sensor Trash Can | Best family-friendly large-capacity option |
1. simplehuman 58L Voice + Motion Sensor Can — Best Overall Premium Motion Sensor Trash Can
The simplehuman 58L Voice + Motion Sensor Can is one of the best premium motion sensor trash cans for homeowners who want a high-end, hands-free kitchen experience. It is designed for people who want convenience, smart operation, strong build quality, and a cleaner-looking kitchen trash setup.
The biggest advantage of this trash can is that it supports both voice control and motion control. According to simplehuman, the can lets you open, keep open, and close the lid hands-free using accurate voice and motion controls. This is very useful when your hands are full of food scraps, packaging, or cleaning supplies. You can simply say a command or wave your hand to open the lid.
The 58-liter capacity also makes it a strong choice for busy kitchens. It gives you more room than many standard smaller cans, which is helpful for families, meal prep, and homes that produce more daily waste. The stainless steel body also gives it a modern look that fits well in premium kitchens.
Another useful feature is the quiet lid system. simplehuman says the planetary gear motor drive is built to be long-lasting and near silent, operating at around 52 decibels. This is a nice upgrade if you dislike loud trash can lids that slam shut.
It also includes simplehuman’s liner rim system and built-in liner pocket. The liner rim keeps the trash bag hidden and secure, while the liner pocket stores extra liners inside the can for faster bag changes.
Key Features: 58L capacity, voice control, motion sensor opening, stainless steel body, quiet motor, liner rim system, built-in liner pocket, modern kitchen design, and hands-free operation.
Why We Like It: This is the best premium option because it combines smart convenience, large capacity, quiet performance, and a polished design. It feels more advanced than a basic automatic trash can.
What Could Be Better: It is expensive compared with most motion sensor trash cans. It may also be more than necessary if you only need a basic touchless trash can for daily use.
Best For: Premium kitchens, busy families, smart homes, home cooks, and anyone who wants the most convenient hands-free trash can.
Check Price on Amazon: Amazon.com: simplehuman 58 Liter / 15.3 Gallon Rectangular Voice and Motion Sensor Automatic Kitchen Trash Can : Home & Kitchen
2. iTouchless 13 Gallon Oval Sensor Trash Can — Best Odor-Control Motion Sensor Trash Can
The iTouchless 13 Gallon Oval Sensor Trash Can is a great option for people who want a touchless trash can with strong odor control. It is especially useful for kitchens where food waste, packaging, leftovers, and everyday garbage can quickly create bad smells.
This model uses a motion sensor lid, so the can opens automatically when you move your hand near it. iTouchless describes this type of operation as a sanitary, hands-free experience that is ideal for kitchen use. The brand also includes an AbsorbX natural carbon odor filter, which helps reduce unwanted trash smells and keeps the kitchen fresher.
The 13-gallon size is practical because it fits standard kitchen trash bags. This is important because some premium trash cans require custom bags, which can be more expensive. With the iTouchless 13-gallon model, you get a familiar kitchen size without needing complicated bag choices.
The fingerprint-proof stainless steel body is another helpful feature. Kitchen trash cans can easily get smudged from cooking, cleaning, and daily use. A fingerprint-resistant finish helps the can look cleaner with less wiping.
This model also has a wide opening, making it easier to throw away bulky items like food containers, packaging, paper towels, and kitchen scraps. For many households, this is one of the most practical motion sensor trash cans because it balances price, features, and odor control.
Key Features: 13-gallon capacity, motion sensor lid, AbsorbX carbon odor filter, fingerprint-proof stainless steel, extra-wide opening, standard 13-gallon bag compatibility, and hands-free operation.
Why We Like It: The odor filter makes this a smart pick for kitchens. It is also more affordable than premium smart trash cans while still offering touchless convenience.
What Could Be Better: It does not have voice control like the simplehuman model. Battery life and sensor performance can also depend on usage and placement.
Best For: Kitchens, apartments, homes with food waste, and buyers who want odor control in a touchless trash can.
3. NINESTARS DZT-50-28 Automatic Touchless Trash Can — Best Value 13-Gallon Sensor Trash Can
The NINESTARS DZT-50-28 Automatic Touchless Trash Can is one of the best value options for buyers who want a reliable motion sensor trash can without paying premium prices. It is a popular style for kitchens, offices, and household use because it offers a large capacity, stainless steel look, and automatic hands-free opening.
NINESTARS lists the DZT-50-28 with a 50-liter capacity, hands-free lid opening, advanced infrared technology to help preserve battery life, a non-skid base, removable ring liner, manual mode, and commercial-grade fingerprint-resistant stainless steel.
The removable ring liner is useful because it helps hold the trash bag in place. This prevents the bag from slipping down into the can, which is one of the most annoying problems with cheaper trash bins. The manual mode is also helpful when you are cleaning the kitchen, replacing bags, or throwing away larger amounts of trash.
Another advantage is the delay sensing technology. Product listings note that NINESTARS uses delay sensing to help conserve battery life and prevent unnecessary lid openings. This can help reduce false triggers if the trash can is placed in a busy area.
The stainless steel base gives it a clean and modern look, while the rectangular shape fits well against walls, counters, and kitchen islands. It is a practical choice for people who want a motion sensor trash can that looks good but does not cost as much as the highest-end models.
Key Features: 50-liter capacity, automatic motion sensor lid, infrared sensor technology, fingerprint-resistant stainless steel, removable ring liner, non-skid base, manual mode, and rectangular kitchen-friendly shape.
Why We Like It: NINESTARS offers a strong balance of price and features. It gives you a large touchless trash can with useful everyday functions at a more budget-friendly price.
What Could Be Better: It does not feel as premium as simplehuman. The lid and sensor may also not be as refined as higher-end models.
Best For: Budget buyers, kitchens, offices, apartments, and anyone who wants a large automatic trash can for everyday use.
Check Price on Amazon: Amazon.com: Ninestars 13 Gallon Oval Automatic Trash Can, 50L Touchless Motion Sensor Garbage Can with Odor-Sealing Lid & One-Touch Manual Mode, Silver Stainless Steel, Black Trim : Industrial & Scientific
4. EKO Mirage-T Motion Sensor Trash Can — Best Modern Stainless Steel Design
The EKO Mirage-T Motion Sensor Trash Can is a good option for people who want a modern automatic trash can that looks stylish in the kitchen. It is designed for users who care about both function and appearance. If your trash can stays visible in the kitchen, a cleaner stainless steel design can make a big difference.
This type of motion sensor trash can usually works with a touchless lid that opens when your hand moves near the sensor. That makes it useful when cooking, cutting vegetables, cleaning counters, or handling messy packaging. You can throw waste away without touching the lid.
The EKO Mirage-T is a strong choice for modern homes because it typically combines a sleek stainless steel body with a smooth automatic lid. Many buyers prefer this style because it looks more elegant than a basic plastic trash can. It can blend well with stainless steel refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, and other kitchen appliances.
For everyday use, the main benefit is convenience. A sensor trash can reduces the need to touch dirty surfaces and helps keep your kitchen more hygienic. It is especially helpful when your hands are wet, greasy, or full.
Key Features: Motion sensor lid, stainless steel design, modern kitchen appearance, hands-free operation, easy everyday use, and clean rectangular or slim profile depending on model.
Why We Like It: The EKO Mirage-T is a good pick for people who want an automatic trash can that looks attractive and works well in a modern kitchen.
What Could Be Better: Exact features can vary by size and model, so check capacity, battery type, and bag compatibility before buying.
Best For: Modern kitchens, apartments, stainless steel appliance setups, and buyers who want a stylish touchless trash can.
Check Price on Amazon: Amazon.com: EKO Nova Sensor Trash Can, 21 Gallon/80 Liter Stainless Steel Rectangular Touchless Motion Sensor Trash Can, Matte Black : Home & Kitchen
5. Glad Stainless Steel Motion Sensor Trash Can — Best Family-Friendly Large-Capacity Option
The Glad Stainless Steel Motion Sensor Trash Can is a practical option for families and busy households that need a larger, easy-to-use trash can. Glad is already a well-known name in trash bags and household waste products, so many buyers feel comfortable choosing a Glad kitchen trash can.
This type of motion sensor trash can is useful for families because it allows hands-free operation while cooking, cleaning, or helping kids throw trash away. The lid opens automatically, reducing contact with the trash can surface. This is especially helpful in kitchens where people are constantly throwing away food scraps, snack wrappers, napkins, and packaging.
A family-friendly trash can should be easy to use, easy to clean, and large enough for daily waste. Glad motion sensor models often focus on a larger kitchen capacity and stainless steel styling, making them suitable for active households.
Another benefit is that many Glad trash cans are designed around common kitchen bag sizes, which can make refills easier. Before buying, check whether the model works with standard 13-gallon bags or larger bags, depending on the size you choose.
Key Features: Motion sensor lid, stainless steel body, family-friendly capacity, hands-free operation, kitchen use, easy-to-clean exterior, and practical everyday design.
Why We Like It: Glad is a solid option for families that want a simple, large, automatic kitchen trash can without needing advanced premium features.
What Could Be Better: It may not offer the same premium motor quality, liner storage, or voice control as simplehuman. If odor control is your top priority, iTouchless may be better.
Best For: Families, busy kitchens, meal prep, homes with kids, and buyers who want a practical large-capacity motion sensor trash can.
How to Choose the Best Motion Sensor Trash Can
When choosing a motion sensor trash can, the first thing to consider is capacity. For most kitchens, a 13-gallon or 50-liter trash can is the most practical size. It is large enough for daily household waste and usually works with standard kitchen trash bags. Smaller cans are better for bathrooms, bedrooms, offices, and laundry rooms.
The second factor is sensor quality. A good motion sensor trash can should open quickly when you wave your hand, but it should not open randomly every time someone walks past. Some models include delay sensing technology to reduce false openings and save battery life. NINESTARS, for example, highlights advanced infrared technology and battery-saving operation in its DZT-50-28 model.
You should also look at odor control. If you throw away food scraps, diapers, pet waste, or strong-smelling garbage, choose a trash can with a carbon filter. iTouchless models often include AbsorbX carbon odor filters to help neutralize trash smells.
Material is another important point. Stainless steel trash cans look better and are usually easier to clean than plastic cans. Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel is even better because it helps reduce smudges.
Battery life also matters. Some trash cans use AA, C, or D batteries, while others can use an optional AC adapter. iTouchless says standard sensor trash cans often last around 3 to 6 months on batteries, while its power management can extend battery life depending on use.
Finally, check the lid style and placement. Make sure the trash can fits under your counter, beside your island, or against your wall. Also check whether the lid needs extra clearance to open fully.
Final Verdict
If you want the best overall motion sensor trash can in 2026, the simplehuman 58L Voice + Motion Sensor Can is the top premium choice. It offers motion control, voice control, quiet operation, large capacity, and a polished stainless steel design.
If odor control is your biggest concern, the iTouchless 13 Gallon Oval Sensor Trash Can is one of the best choices because it includes a carbon odor filter and fits standard 13-gallon bags. For buyers who want good value, the NINESTARS DZT-50-28 is a practical 50-liter automatic trash can with useful features like a removable ring liner and manual mode.
For a modern kitchen look, the EKO Mirage-T Motion Sensor Trash Can is a stylish option. And for families that need a simple large-capacity automatic trash can, the Glad Stainless Steel Motion Sensor Trash Can is a solid everyday pick.
A motion sensor trash can may seem like a small upgrade, but it can make your kitchen cleaner, easier to use, and more hygienic. Whether you want premium smart features, odor control, or a budget-friendly hands-free can, there is a good option available for your home in 2026.
FAQs About Motion Sensor Trash Cans
Are motion sensor trash cans worth it?
Yes, motion sensor trash cans are worth it if you want a cleaner and more hygienic way to throw away trash. They are especially useful in kitchens because you do not have to touch the lid while cooking or cleaning.
Do motion sensor trash cans use a lot of battery?
Most sensor trash cans use batteries, but battery life depends on the model and how often the lid opens. Some brands use battery-saving sensor technology to reduce unnecessary openings.
What size motion sensor trash can is best for the kitchen?
For most kitchens, a 13-gallon or 50-liter motion sensor trash can is the best size because it holds daily household waste and usually fits common kitchen trash bags.
Do touchless trash cans control odor?
Some do. Models with carbon odor filters, such as many iTouchless trash cans, are better for reducing garbage smells.
Can motion sensor trash cans open by mistake?
Some cheaper models may open if placed in high-traffic areas. Better models use delay sensing or improved infrared technology to reduce false openings.
Which is better: motion sensor or step trash can?
A motion sensor trash can is more convenient and touch-free, while a step trash can does not need batteries. Choose motion sensor if hygiene and convenience are most important.
