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Keep Your Trash at Bay With the Best Automatic Trash Cans

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By Old House Journal Review Team
14 Aug 2022

Technology has certainly come a long way. From the alarm that wakes us up in the morning to the vehicle that takes us to work, everything we use is embedded with the latest technology. Whether we realize it or not, technology has penetrated our daily lives. We’ve gotten to the point where you don’t even have to wake up and prepare coffee in the morning. Instead, your coffee maker does it for you!

If you’re someone who doesn’t like handling trash, there’s a technology-backed solution for that as well: automatic trash cans. These handy trash cans have a motion sensor and are touchless, meaning you don’t have to manually open and close the trash can every time you want to throw something out. But with so many automatic trash cans on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. To help, we’ve reviewed some of the top-rated automatic trash cans of 2023 for you to choose from. Let’s take a look! 

Best Overall
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Ninestars Automatic Trash Can
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Best Odor Absorbency
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iTouchless Automatic Trash Can
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Best Design
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HCB Automatic Trash Can
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Best for the Bathroom
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ELPHECO Automatic Trash Can
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Easiest To Clean
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Vnewone Automatic Trash Can
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Quality Automatic Trash Can Worth Considering for 2023

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Best Overall :

Ninestars Automatic Trash Can

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The Ninestars Automatic Trash Can has a capacity of 13 gallons and is made from premium-quality stainless steel. This smart trashcan has a rectangular shape and a plastic lid, which is fitted with motion sensor technology. As soon as you step close to the trash can and place your hand near the lid, the lid automatically opens up so that you don’t have to touch the trash can. Thanks to its smart design and delay sensing technology, this trash can won’t open for children or pets. Operating on two D batteries, this automatic trash can does a stellar job at keeping the odor trapped inside, which is why we’ve chosen it as our best overall choice.

Pros
  • Keeps odor and moisture at bay
  • Includes a two-year hassle-free warranty
  • Features delay sensing technology
Cons
  • Does not have a handle
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Best Odor Absorbency :

iTouchless Automatic Trash Can

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Next on our list is the iTouchless Automatic Trash Can, which is also made from stainless steel and has a rectangular shape. This trash can has a 13-gallon capacity and includes a plastic lid, which is equipped with motion sensing technology. The lid on this trash can automatically opens when you bring your hand near it. The lid also contains a natural carbon odor filter, which helps the trash can mitigate strong odors from seeping out of the trash can into the house.

This automatic trash can runs on four D batteries. You can also get an optional AC adapter that eliminates the need for replacing batteries every now and then. As an added bonus, this trashcan features buttons for manually opening and closing it in case you’d like to operate it that way.

 

Pros
  • Retainer ring keeps trash bag in place
  • The lid lock prevents accidental opening
  • Durable and space-saving design
Cons
  • Trash may dirty the odor filter
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Best Design :

HCB Automatic Trash Can

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If you’re looking for a unique design, the HCB Automatic Trash Can is a great option for you. Featuring a rounded square shape and a 13-gallon capacity, this versatile automatic trash can is suitable for your kitchen, bathroom, office, or bedroom. Its touch-free technology opens up the lid as soon as it detects a human hand close by. Plus, this trash can lid closes within five seconds. This automatic trash can has a silent operation that prevents you from getting disturbed while you’re asleep or working. It’s also easy to replace the trash bag from this trash can without touching the trash can or coming into contact with germs.

Pros
  • Features a compact design
  • The lid opens and closes silently
  • Waterproof and easy to clean
Cons
  • Doesn’t have a battery indicator light
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Best for the Bathroom :

ELPHECO Automatic Trash Can

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If you’re looking for a trash can that fits perfectly in the bathroom, consider the ELPHECO Automatic Trash Can, which has an oval design and is made from high-quality plastic. While it has a lower capacity as compared to the other items on our list, it’s perfect for your bathroom. This trash can’s lid is controlled with motion sensing technology, which prevents your hands from getting dirty or coming in contact with germs. 

This automatic trash can is also equipped with IPX5 waterproof capability, which keeps water stains and unwanted odors at bay. As an added bonus, the lid closes automatically within five seconds after you throw trash away.

Pros
  • Made from durable, non-toxic ABS plastic
  • Works on two AA batteries
  • Can easily fit in any space
Cons
  • Has a lower capacity
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Easiest To Clean :

Vnewone Automatic Trash Can

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The Vnewone Automatic Trash Can has stainless steel construction and a rounded rectangular design. This automatic trash can is suitable for any home kitchen thanks to its large 13-gallon capacity. Featuring a durable and rust-free body, you don’t have to worry about cleaning this trash can frequently. Plus, this automatic trash can uses an infrared system to provide you with hands-free technology. This trash can opens up the lid when you bring your hand close and it stays open for seven seconds. You can rest assured this trash can is kid-proof since it keeps the lid closed if your child or pet gets close to it.

Pros
  • Comes in four bright colors
  • Has a long battery life
  • Easy to clean and replace the trash bag
Cons
  • Requires frequent battery replacements

Buying Guide: Automatic Trash Can

What Is an Automatic Trash Can?

An automatic trash can is similar to a normal trash can in terms of its design, construction, and purpose. What sets it apart from a regular trash can is its automatic lid that opens and closes automatically. As soon as the trash can detects your hand nearby, it will open. All you need to do is bring your hand close or wave it near the trash can and it will open the lid for five to seven seconds.

Why Do You Need an Automatic Trash Can?

The main purpose of an automatic trash can is so you don’t have to touch the trash can lid, which might be contaminated with germs due to the trash inside. Not coming in contact with the trash can’s lid can actually prevent the cross-contamination of germs, which can protect you from several diseases.

Most automatic trash cans also come with a ring or bag liner, which prevents the edges of the trash bag from protruding. As a result, you have a cleaner-looking space. Another reason why you should opt for an automatic trash can is that they’re designed to fit any room in the house perfectly and you don’t have to worry about them getting dirty or contaminated.

How To Use an Automatic Trash Can

An automatic trash can is similar to a normal trash can, with the exception of motion sensing or infrared technology. Designed to detect when your hand gets close to the lid, and open up for a few seconds so you can throw the trash inside, these trash cans are very easy to set up and use.

Apart from this functionality, you can use your automatic trash can just like a normal one. To use, simply find a place for your trash can — either in the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, living room, or even outdoors. Most automatic trash cans have a ring liner that holds the trash bag in place. Place a trash bag in your trash can and make sure that it’s either plugged in or has batteries installed. To use, simply put your hand near the lid and allow the trash can to sense your hand. It should then open so you can throw out your trash. It’s that simple!

Things To Keep In Mind Before Choosing an Automatic Trash Can

There are several models and varieties of automatic trash cans on the market, which makes the choice much more difficult. We’ve outlined the factors that you should keep in mind to make an informed decision.

Material

The material of the automatic trash can is very important as it determines how durable and easy to clean the trash can will be. Some of the best ones you can find are made from stainless steel and feature a plastic lid.

Capacity

The capacity of the automatic trash also influences your decision. This determines how often you need to take out your trash. The most common size is a 13-gallon trash can, which should provide you with ample space.

Shape

Automatic trash cans come in various shapes and sizes, including circular, rectangular, and square. The trash can’s shape and capacity determine where you’ll be able to place the trash can in your house. For instance, if you’re looking to place it in the bathroom, you’ll need to buy a much smaller size than a trash can placed in the kitchen.

People Also Asked

Q: Can I use an automatic trash can for medical waste disposal?

A: An automatic trash can is a perfect solution for medical waste disposal as it will prevent you from getting any germs or bacteria on your skin.

Q: What if my dog or child gets close to the automatic trash can?

A: Automatic trash cans are designed to prevent accidentally opening when your child or pet gets close to them, so you don’t have to worry about your child or pet getting into the trash.

Q: How does an automatic trash can lock in odor?

A: Most automatic trash cans have an odor filter or deodorizer that seals the odor in and prevents it from escaping.

Kitchen Smart Home
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By Old House Journal Review Team
The Old House Journal Review Team’s product reviews and in-depth guides are here to help you restore, repair, update, and decorate your home. The content is created by The Old House Journal Review Team. The Old House Journal editorial staff is not involved. Old House Journal is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
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