5 Best Motion Sensor Trash Cans
Updated: Feb. 15, 2023Hands-free function and a lot more. Check out these picks for the best motion sensor trash can for your home.
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What to Know About Motion Sensor Trash Cans
Motion sensor trash cans may seem luxurious, but they are actually quite practical. They open and close automatically, keeping germs and related schmutz off your hands. Those with mobility problems may find the automatic feature more convenient than foot-operated models. Motion sensor trash cans make using your handiest trash can tricks and hacks easier than ever before—hygienically.
Some feature enhanced odor control thanks to sealing lids that keep stinky garbage can woes at bay. Some even have filters and air cleaning technology that eliminate garbage odor. Others operate by voice command controls. If you’re considering a motion sensor trash can for your home, here are our favorites.
What to consider when buying a motion sensor trash can
Choosing the right motion sensor trash can boils down to where you plan to use it, how much space you have and what your budget is. Larger models are best for busy kitchens with lots of food scraps and packaging waste. Smaller motion sensor trash cans fit neatly against bathroom vanities and in home office corners. Excellent options are available for every budget. Plus, these modern wonders are so pretty you won’t even have to think of ways to disguise your trash bin.
How we chose the best motion sensor trash cans
We evaluated each motion sensor trash can based on overall design, the sensitivity of its motion detection mechanism and overall value. Other factors, like odor containment and mitigation, were considered as well. Those with carbon filters and tight lid seals that were able to double as stink-free garbage cans for pet poop ranked high on our list.
Best budget motion sensor trash can: BestOffice Bin
The BestOffice is one of the least expensive motion sensor trash cans available. It’s a quality product with high ratings. The variety of color finishes makes it the best automatic trash can to match a variety of interior design styles. It also seals shut to keep in odors.
“I am loving this trash can. It is easy to clean and detects the movement of my hand so I don’t have to touch it when I have to throw something while I am cooking,” writes verified Amazon purchaser, Sandeep Panta. “Great product!”
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Easy to operate
- Multiple color finishes
- Sensitive motion detection
Cons:
- Only one compartment means there’s no section for recycling
Best with an adapter: iTouchless Motion Sensor Trash Can
If you hate the cost and disposal of batteries, then a motion sensor trash can with an adapter is a good choice for you. This iTouchless trash can is best because it also comes with an activated carbon odor filter to prevent odors from escaping the can.
Pros:
- Rechargeable design doesn’t rely on batteries
- Activated carbon filter reduces odors
- Opens with the wave of a hand
Cons:
- Narrow footprint means it may be too small for large families or busy offices
Best for small spaces: iTouchless Four Gallon Motion Sensor Trash Can
The iTouchless four gallon motion sensor trash can is more compact than its heartier counterparts. The small size so it’s great for the bathroom or a home office. It also has some clever features that are usually reserved for bigger models. An odor filter prevents nasty smells from escaping the can — helpful if, say, your pet is a scavenger.
“We needed a trash can with a lid in our bathroom to keep our puppy from getting into it,” shares K. Puccia, a verified Amazon purchaser. “This trash can fit the bill. It’s just the right size (not too big and not too small). The lid opens when the sensor detects your hand and the lid shuts after a few seconds. This was the perfect solution for our problem.”
Pros:
- Compact four-gallon size
- Budget-friendly
- Sensitive wave-only motion sensor
- Available in a variety of colors and other sizes
Cons:
- Some reviewers note that it doesn’t fit inside bathroom cabinets, but the nature of this item makes it better suited to the space next to a vanity or toilet
Best high-end design: simple human Motion Sensor Trash Can
The simplehuman trash can combines stylish and functional design, setting it apart from other options. It has a sleek, modern half-circle shape and it comes in five colors. Choose from black, brushed stainless steel, dark bronze, rose-gold and white.
While stylish, it features functional design as well. Our favorite: a built-in pocket that holds and dispenses your garbage bags. It makes pull-out trash cans under kitchen sinks seem just about obsolete, and adds endless elegance to modern kitchens.
Pros:
- Stylish, modern design that seems like it belongs in a five-star hotel
- Available in several colors and finishes
- Modern half-circle shape
- Built-in garbage bag dispenser
Cons:
- Expensive, though reviewers say it’s “worth the price.”
Best combo unit: simplehuman Trash Can and Recycler
The simplehuman Trash Can and Recycler, one of the biggest motion sensor cans on the market, comes with two compartments. One side holds trash, the other a bucket for recyclables. Like other simplehuman trash cans, this has a built-in trash liner dispenser. And this one can be opened with voice commands. It comes in three metal finishes, is whisper-quiet and has a cult-like following thanks to its high-end design.
Pros:
- Offers two compartments, one for trash and the other for recycling
- Responds to voice commands as well as motions
- Three modern finish options
- The largest motion sensor trash can on our list
Cons:
- Relatively expensive, though the quality and convenience is worth it
FAQs
Are motion sensor trash cans worth it?
Motion sensor trash cans are a hygienic, mess-free solution to traditionally messy problems. They allow home chefs to quickly and easily dispose of kitchen waste without touching potentially germ-ridden surfaces. Though these modern marvels are more expensive than traditional trash cans, there are options for every budget that are well worth the cost.
How do touchless trash cans work?
Touchless trash cans use motion-sensing or voice-command technology to open and close their lids. That means a simple wave of a hand or arm is usually enough to open the trash. Voice-activated models work with commands like “open” and “close” to offer a touchless experience.
How to clean a touchlesss trash can?
Most motion sensor trash cans and touches garbage options are encased in stainless steel. It’s easy to clean stainless steel with one of the best stainless steel cleaners and a soft microfiber cloth or rag. Because the motion sensing components work with electric and mechanical parts, it’s important not to get them wet. Always wipe smart trash cans down rather than submerging them in water.
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