The 10 Best Motion Sensor Trash Cans

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This wiki has been updated 23 times since it was first published in April of 2020. Even humble trash cans have evolved in the digital age, and motion sensor activated garbage cans do much more than provide a helping hand for the lazy. They are effective in maintaining hygiene around the house, they neutralize odors, assist with bag replacement, and improve your mobility when doing two-handed tasks, such as when scraping leftovers from a plate or chopping board. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

1. Simplehuman Touch-Free

2. Zita 13 Gallon

3. Townew Automatic

Editor's Notes

April 15, 2020:

Just as pedal-operated kitchen trash cans allow the user to perform cleaning duties without making manual contact with unsanitary household waste, the models in this ranking use motion sensors to automatically open when they detect a hand gesture.

In addition to the practical benefits and improved sanitation that motion sensor activated garbage cans offer, many have unique features that assist users as they perform day-to-day cleaning tasks. For example, the Townew Automatic seals the used trash bag and replaces it with a new one, and the Simplehuman Touch-Free opens in response to voice commands.

The Hailo Oko Vario XL is a good option for the eco-conscious consumer. This model features a compost bin to process household biowaste, and a separate bin to sort and store recyclable products before they’re sent for collection. For those that have children or pets, the Secura Automatic has a directional sensor that can be angled away from their reach, in order to prevent them from finding their way into the trash.

4. Hailo Oko Vario XL

5. HomeLabs Automatic

6. Secura Automatic

7. Caynel Infrared

8. Glad Extra Capacity

9. Ninestars DZT-50-9BK

10. SensorCan 13 Gallon


Christopher Thomas
Last updated by Christopher Thomas

Building PCs, remodeling, and cooking since he was young, quasi-renowned trumpeter Christopher Thomas traveled the USA performing at and organizing shows from an early age. His work experiences led him to open a catering company, eventually becoming a sous chef in several fine LA restaurants. He enjoys all sorts of barely necessary gadgets, specialty computing, cutting-edge video games, and modern social policy. He has given talks on debunking pseudoscience, the Dunning-Kruger effect, culinary technique, and traveling. After two decades of product and market research, Chris has a keen sense of what people want to know and how to explain it clearly. He delights in parsing complex subjects for anyone who will listen -- because teaching is the best way to ensure that you understand things yourself.


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