Imagine a trash can that knows when it’s full, seals the bag for you, and even orders more bags when you’re running low. Sounds like science fiction, right? But this is the reality of smart trash cans, and they’re here to make our lives a whole lot easier.
Let’s be honest, dealing with trash isn’t anyone’s favorite chore. From smelly odors to messy bag changes, traditional trash cans can be a real hassle. And when you start looking for a smart trash can, the choices can be overwhelming. How do you pick the one that’s best for your home and your needs? It’s a common problem, and we understand the confusion.
In this post, we’ll break down what makes a smart trash can truly smart. We’ll explore the cool features that can help you say goodbye to trash troubles. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for and feel confident in choosing the perfect smart trash can to upgrade your kitchen or any room in your house.
Our Top 5 Smart Trash Can Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Smart Trash Can Detailed Reviews
1. Vanpopubs 2 Pack 2.7 Gal Bathroom Trash Can with Lid
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your waste disposal experience with the Vanpopubs 2 Pack 2.7 Gal Bathroom Trash Can. This smart, touchless garbage can is designed for modern living, offering convenience and hygiene in a sleek, slim package. Its automatic motion sensor lid opens with a quick wave of your hand and closes after a few seconds, keeping your space clean and odor-free. Perfect for bathrooms, bedrooms, offices, and kitchens, these waterproof bins are a stylish and practical addition to any room.
What We Like:
- The touchless motion sensor is super fast, opening the lid in just 0.1 seconds.
- It’s slim and space-saving, fitting perfectly in tight spots at only 7 inches wide.
- The waterproof design means you don’t have to worry about splashes in the bathroom.
- The lid seals well, helping to keep unpleasant smells contained.
- You get two trash cans in one package, which is great for value and eco-friendliness as they ship nested.
- It has an “Always Open” mode for when you need to dispose of multiple items.
What Could Be Improved:
- The motion sensor needs a clear space of about 23.6 inches above it to work properly, so it’s not ideal for under desks or sinks.
- You need to press and hold the power button to turn it on initially after installing batteries.
- The product requires two AA batteries, which are not included.
- The indicator light flashing red means the batteries are low and need replacing.
These Vanpopubs trash cans offer a hygienic and convenient way to manage your waste. Their smart features and compact design make them a fantastic choice for keeping your home tidy and fresh.
2. Kitchen Trash Can with Lid
Rating: 9.2/10
Tired of messy trash cans and germy encounters? This 13-gallon automatic kitchen trash can offers a modern solution for your home. Its touch-free sensor lid opens and closes smoothly, making trash disposal hygienic and effortless. Crafted from premium, fingerprint-resistant brushed stainless steel, it adds a touch of elegance to any room, from your kitchen to your bedroom.
What We Like:
- The automatic, touch-free sensor makes it super hygienic. No more touching germy lids!
- It’s made of strong stainless steel that looks good and resists fingerprints.
- The large 13-gallon capacity means fewer trips to take out the trash.
- It runs on 4 C batteries, which last for a really long time (over 40,000 openings!).
- The lid closes automatically, which helps keep odors from spreading.
- It’s designed to fit standard kitchen trash bags easily.
- The sleek design looks great in any room of your house.
What Could Be Improved:
- The batteries are not included, so you’ll need to buy them separately.
- It’s best to place it in a cool, dry, and ventilated spot to protect the electronics.
This trash can is a fantastic upgrade for any home, offering convenience, cleanliness, and style. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking to simplify their daily chores.
3. NINESTARS DZT-50-28 Automatic Touchless Motion Sensor Rectangular Trash Can
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of touching gross trash cans? The NINESTARS DZT-50-28 Automatic Touchless Motion Sensor Rectangular Trash Can is here to make your life cleaner and easier. This 13-gallon trash can uses a smart motion sensor to open its lid, so you never have to touch it. Its sleek black trim looks great in any kitchen or bathroom.
What We Like:
- It’s super easy to use! Just wave your hand, and the lid opens.
- The lid closes softly and quietly.
- It has a special sensor that doesn’t open by accident from pets or kids walking by.
- The stainless steel base is fingerprint-resistant, so it stays looking nice.
- It’s water-resistant, so spills are no problem.
- The removable liner keeps your trash bag neat and hidden.
- NINESTARS offers a two-year warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- You need to buy 2 D batteries separately.
This trash can makes throwing away trash a clean and simple task. It’s a smart addition to any home looking for a more hygienic and convenient way to manage waste.
4. EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can
Rating: 8.9/10
The EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can in Brushed Stainless Steel is a modern and smart addition to any kitchen or living space. Its touchless operation makes disposing of trash hygienic and convenient. The sleek design and durable finish will complement your home’s style.
What We Like:
- The premium motion sensor opens and closes the lid smoothly, making it super easy to use without touching anything.
- Its fingerprint-resistant brushed stainless steel finish keeps it looking clean and stylish all the time. No more messy smudges!
- The trash can has a large 50-liter capacity, which is 25% more than many others, thanks to its clever liner-free design. This means fewer trips to take out the trash.
- The brushed stainless steel looks really nice and is built to last, fitting in with any home decor.
- It runs on AA batteries that can last up to 8 months, saving you money and being kinder to the planet.
What Could Be Improved:
- The motion sensor can sometimes be a bit sensitive, opening the lid when you don’t intend it to.
- While it has a large capacity, some might find the rectangular shape takes up a bit more floor space than a round bin.
Overall, the EKO Mirage-T offers a clean, convenient, and stylish way to manage your household waste. It’s a great choice for a modern and efficient home.
5. Bathroom Trash Can with Lid
Rating: 9.0/10
The KOEYLE 2 Pack 2.2 Gallon Automatic Touchless Garbage Can is a smart and convenient addition to any room. This small, slim trash bin is perfect for tight spaces like bathrooms, bedrooms, or offices. Its motion sensor lid opens and closes automatically, keeping your hands clean.
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What We Like:
- Super speedy opening: The lid opens in just 0.1 seconds when it senses your hand.
- Odor control: The sealed design traps smells, keeping your room fresh.
- Hands-free convenience: No need to touch the lid, which is great for hygiene.
- Waterproof design: It’s made to handle bathroom splashes, so it’s durable.
- Slim and space-saving: Its small size fits easily into narrow spots.
- Manual override: You can keep the lid open if you need to throw away a lot.
- Comes in a pack of two: Get two bins for the price of one!
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What Could Be Improved:
- Batteries not included: You’ll need to buy 2 AA batteries for each can.
- Small capacity: 2.2 gallons might be too small for some high-traffic areas.
- Sensing range: The sensor might be a bit sensitive for some users.
This KOEYLE trash can offers a modern and hygienic way to manage your waste. It’s a practical choice for keeping your living spaces clean and odor-free.
Upgrade Your Cleanup: The Smart Trash Can Buying Guide
Tired of that smelly, overflowing trash can? A smart trash can might be the answer! These aren’t your grandma’s bins. They use technology to make trash day easier and cleaner. Let’s dive into what makes a smart trash can a smart choice.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a smart trash can, keep these cool features in mind:
- Motion Sensor Lid: This is the star of the show! The lid opens automatically when you get close and closes after a few seconds. It’s super handy, especially when your hands are full.
- Odor Control: Many smart cans have special filters or sealed designs to trap smells. Some even have UV lights that kill germs and reduce odors.
- Self-Sealing and Bag Replacement: Some high-end models can automatically seal a full bag and even dispense a new one. This is a game-changer for busy households.
- Touchless Operation: Even without a motion sensor, some cans have a button you can tap with your foot or elbow to open the lid.
- Capacity: Think about how much trash your family creates. Smart cans come in various sizes, from small kitchen bins to larger ones for families.
- Power Source: Most smart trash cans run on batteries or can be plugged into an outlet. Check how often you’ll need to replace batteries or if you have a convenient outlet nearby.
- Quiet Operation: Some lids can be noisy when they open and close. Look for models advertised as quiet if that’s important to you.
2. Important Materials
The materials used affect how durable and easy to clean your smart trash can is.
- Stainless Steel: This is a popular choice for a reason. Stainless steel is strong, looks sleek, and resists fingerprints and rust. It’s also easy to wipe down.
- Plastic: Some smart cans are made of durable plastic. Plastic is usually lighter and can be more affordable. However, it might scratch more easily than stainless steel.
- Internal Components: The sensors and motors inside are usually made of plastic and electronic parts. Good quality components will last longer.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all smart trash cans are created equal. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Sensor Sensitivity: A good sensor opens the lid reliably every time you approach. A poor sensor might be too sensitive and open when you don’t want it to, or not sensitive enough and require you to wave your hand multiple times.
- Lid Mechanism Durability: The motor and gears that move the lid need to be strong. A flimsy mechanism can break easily.
- Battery Life: For battery-powered models, long battery life means less frequent replacements.
- Ease of Cleaning: A smooth interior and exterior make it simple to wipe down and keep hygienic. Removable inner buckets are a big plus.
- Build Quality: A well-built can feels sturdy and solid. Wobbly parts or loose seams can indicate lower quality.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Smart trash cans are designed to make your life easier in several ways:
- Kitchen Hero: This is where they shine! Keep your kitchen clean and germ-free, especially when cooking and your hands are messy.
- Bathroom Buddy: A touchless lid in the bathroom helps prevent the spread of germs.
- Office Assistant: Keep your workspace tidy without touching a dirty lid.
- For Families with Kids: Kids love the automatic lid! It can make them more excited about throwing away trash.
- For People with Mobility Issues: The motion sensor is a huge help for those who find bending or touching difficult.
A smart trash can is more than just a container; it’s a step towards a cleaner, more convenient home.
Smart Trash Can FAQs
Q: What is a smart trash can?
A: A smart trash can is a trash bin that uses technology, like sensors, to automate tasks such as opening and closing the lid.
Q: How does the motion sensor work?
A: A motion sensor detects movement near the can and signals the lid to open. It then closes automatically after a short period.
Q: Are smart trash cans difficult to set up?
A: Most smart trash cans are very easy to set up. You usually just need to insert batteries or plug them in.
Q: Do smart trash cans need special trash bags?
A: Usually, they use regular trash bags. However, some advanced models that self-seal might require specific bags.
Q: How do I clean a smart trash can?
A: You can clean them like a regular trash can. Wipe the inside and outside with a damp cloth and mild soap. Make sure to keep the sensor area dry.
Q: How long do the batteries last?
A: Battery life varies by model. Some can last for months on a single set of batteries.
Q: What if the sensor doesn’t work?
A: Check the batteries first. If that doesn’t help, consult the user manual for troubleshooting steps. Sometimes, cleaning the sensor can fix it.
Q: Are smart trash cans worth the extra cost?
A: For many people, the convenience, hygiene, and odor control make them a worthwhile investment.
Q: Can I turn off the automatic lid?
A: Many models have a manual override button to keep the lid open or closed, or to operate it by hand.
Q: Are there different sizes of smart trash cans?
A: Yes, smart trash cans come in various sizes to fit different needs and spaces.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!