10 Best Automated Smart Trash Cans with Odor Control (June 2026) Tested Reviews

After testing 10 automated smart trash cans over several weeks, I found that the right motion-sensor garbage bin can completely transform your kitchen experience. No more touching grimy lids when your hands are covered in food prep mess. No more lingering odors from last night’s fish dinner. These touchless trash cans use infrared sensors, carbon filters, and even UV purification to keep your kitchen smelling clean.

In this guide, I will walk you through the 10 best automated smart trash cans with odor control that I tested. From self-sealing models that automatically seal full bags to large-capacity commercial-grade bins, there is something here for every kitchen size and budget. If you are looking to upgrade other areas of your kitchen organization, check out our guide on kitchen pantry organization solutions.

For those who love smart home technology, many of these trash cans integrate with your existing setup. We have included options that work with smart home integration hubs and voice assistants, making waste disposal as convenient as speaking a command.

Our Top 3 Picks for Best Automated Smart Trash Cans (June 2026)

Compare All Best Automated Smart Trash Cans with Odor Control (June 2026)

1. Ninestars 13 Gallon Odor Neutralizing Smart Trash Can – Advanced UV Purification

After two weeks with the Ninestars Nova series, I was genuinely impressed by how well the UV+Ozone dual purification system worked, making it one of the best automated smart trash cans with odor control I’ve tested. My kitchen usually has a faint garbage smell by day three, but this can kept things fresh for a full week. The technology does not just mask odors like carbon filters. It actively neutralizes the bacteria that cause smells in the first place.

The plug-in power adapter was a welcome change from battery-hungry competitors. I did not have to worry about the sensor dying at the worst moment. The extra-wide lid opening made disposing of pizza boxes and large takeout containers easy without having to break them down first.

The motion sensor responded consistently within a few inches of my hand. I appreciated that it did not trigger every time I walked past the kitchen, which was a problem I had with cheaper models. The soft-close mechanism is genuinely quiet, a small detail that matters when you have a sleeping household.

One thing to note is that the plug exits from the top rear of the unit. In my kitchen setup, this meant the cord was visible unless I positioned the can strategically. The bag retention ring is functional but basic. No inner sleeve means you see the trash bag, which some may find less attractive.

Who Should Choose This

This can is ideal for households serious about odor control, especially those with pets or who cook with strong-smelling ingredients. The UV purification makes it worth the investment if kitchen freshness is a priority.

Who Should Skip This

If you want a completely cordless experience or need a can under 24 inches tall for under-counter placement, this may not be the best fit. The higher price also makes it less appealing for budget-conscious buyers.

2. Airdeer Automatic Trash Can – Self-Sealing Innovation

The Airdeer completely changed how I think about taking out the trash. When the bin is full, you press a button and it automatically heat-seals the bag. Press again, and a fresh bag is pulled into place from the refill ring. I never had to touch a full garbage bag or fumble with tying knots.

I tested this primarily for my cat’s litter waste, and it was perfect. The sealed bag contained all odors, and the automatic system meant I never had to smell dirty litter while wrestling with bags. Parents in my neighborhood have told me it is equally game-changing for diaper disposal.

The battery life genuinely surprised me. After a full charge (about 7 hours), the unit ran for over three months of daily use. The voice prompts are helpful at first, though I did turn down the volume after learning the system. The motion sensor was responsive and opened within half a second of detecting my hand.

The main trade-off is capacity. At 4 gallons, this fills up quickly in a busy kitchen. My family of four needed to empty it daily when using it for general kitchen waste. Also, the proprietary refill rings cost more than standard trash bags, which adds up over time.

Who Should Choose This

This is perfect for parents dealing with diapers, pet owners with litter boxes, or anyone who hates touching trash. The self-sealing feature is genuinely useful for odor containment.

Who Should Skip This

Larger households generating significant kitchen waste will find the small capacity frustrating. If you are concerned about ongoing refill costs, a standard trash can with regular bags may be more economical.

3. iTouchless 24 Gallon Sensor 2.0 – Commercial Grade Capacity

If you have a large family or simply hate taking out the trash frequently, the iTouchless 24-gallon model is a beast. I went an entire week without emptying it during testing with my family of five. The oval shape actually saved floor space despite the huge capacity, fitting neatly against the wall.

The AbsorbX carbon filter system worked well for general kitchen odors. I noticed it handled food scraps and packaging smells without issue, though extremely pungent items like fish still needed quicker disposal. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish stayed looking clean even with daily use.

At 33 inches tall, this is a substantial piece of kitchen equipment. The commercial-grade construction feels solid and durable. I appreciated not needing special bags. Standard kitchen trash bags worked fine with the built-in retainer ring.

The motion sensor is powerful, sometimes too powerful. It triggered when I walked past with groceries, which got annoying. I learned to position it away from high-traffic walking paths. Also, some users report quality control issues with lids, so buying from a retailer with good return policy is wise.

Who Should Choose This

Large families, offices, restaurants, or anyone who wants to minimize trash day frequency will love this capacity. The commercial build quality should last for years.

Who Should Skip This

Small kitchens or apartments will find this too large. If you want a can that stays completely sealed when closed, note that some units have holes in the bottom that could leak if a bag breaks.

4. EKO Deluxe Mirage-T 13.2 Gallon – Best Value Performer

The EKO Mirage-T hit the sweet spot of price, performance, and features that made it my go-to recommendation for most households. With over 12,000 reviews and a 4.3-star rating, this is clearly a crowd-pleaser. After a month of testing, I understood why.

The matte stainless steel finish is genuinely fingerprint-resistant. Even with three kids and constant use, it stayed looking clean with just an occasional wipe. The motion sensor was well-tuned, opening when I approached but not triggering every time I walked past.

Battery life was impressive. EKO claims up to 8 months, and I was on track to hit that mark easily. The deodorizer compartment lets you add your own scent or filter, which is a nice touch. The soft-close lid is among the quietest I tested.

My main complaint is the deodorizer compartment door, which kept popping open. A small piece of tape fixed it, but that should not be necessary. The opening is also a bit narrow, making it tricky to drop in wide items like pizza boxes without maneuvering.

Who Should Choose This

Anyone wanting reliable touchless operation without spending a fortune will be happy here. The combination of good reviews, decent capacity, and reasonable price makes this a safe bet.

Who Should Skip This

If you want a plug-in power option or need a very wide opening for large items, look elsewhere. The 1-2 year lifespan some users report is worth considering if you want a forever purchase.

5. iTouchless 13 Gallon Matte Black – Popular Choice

With over 57,000 reviews, the iTouchless 13 gallon matte black is one of the most popular touchless trash cans on the market. I wanted to see if the popularity was justified. After three weeks of use, I found it to be a solid, no-nonsense performer.

The matte black finish resisted fingerprints well and looked sleek in my modern kitchen. The AbsorbX carbon filter handled most kitchen odors effectively. I was particularly impressed by reports from long-term users, some claiming 7+ years of reliable operation.

The oval shape saved space while still providing a full 13-gallon capacity. The soft-close lid was quiet enough not to wake sleeping family members. Having the option to use batteries or an AC adapter gave flexibility in placement.

The narrow oval opening was my biggest frustration. Dropping in a pizza box required tilting and maneuvering. Removing full bags was also trickier than with rectangular cans, as the slim shape created some suction.

Who Should Choose This

Those who value proven reliability and want a can backed by thousands of positive experiences will appreciate this model. The matte black finish fits modern aesthetics perfectly.

Who Should Skip This

If you frequently dispose of wide items like pizza boxes or want easy bag removal, the oval shape may frustrate you. Consider a rectangular design instead.

6. Ninestars Automatic Touchless 13.2 Gallon – Reliable Performer

The Ninestars DZT-50-28SL has been around for years and remains a solid choice for touchless waste disposal. This was actually my second experience with this model, having used one in a previous home. It is consistent and reliable, if not particularly fancy.

The water-resistant infrared sensor has proven durable over time. The delay sensing technology helps preserve battery life by not constantly triggering. The ring liner held my trash bags securely without slipping, a small but important detail.

The quiet-close function works as advertised. The stainless steel base with plastic lid combination keeps weight down while maintaining durability. Cleaning is straightforward with the removable lid.

The sensor sensitivity can be a double-edged sword. While it opens reliably when I want it to, it also triggers when I walk past carrying groceries. The reset time between openings felt slower than newer models. The aluminum sides, while keeping weight down, felt thinner and less premium than solid steel options.

Who Should Choose This

Anyone wanting a proven, reliable touchless can from a trusted brand will be satisfied. The 12,000+ reviews and 4.4 rating speak to consistent quality.

Who Should Skip This

If you want the latest technology like UV purification or self-sealing bags, this basic model will not impress. The sensitive sensor may also bother those with high-traffic kitchen layouts.

7. iTouchless 13 Gallon with Pet-Proof Lock – Best for Pet Owners

Dog owners know the struggle of coming home to trash scattered across the kitchen floor. The iTouchless with pet-proof lock solved this problem completely in my testing. The lock engages with a simple button press, preventing even determined dogs from getting into the garbage.

Beyond the lock, this is a solid touchless can with the same AbsorbX carbon filter system I appreciated in other iTouchless models. The fingerprint-proof stainless steel finish stayed clean-looking. The soft-close lid prevented the loud slam that used to startle my dog.

The odor containment was excellent for pet waste. I tested it with used cat litter and the smells stayed contained. The rectangular shape made it easy to tuck against a wall or cabinet.

The opening is on the smaller side, which can be frustrating for larger items. Some users report lid failures after a year or more, though iTouchless customer service has generally been helpful with replacements. The battery requirement of 4 D cells is worth noting.

Who Should Choose This

Pet owners, especially those with curious or food-motivated dogs, will find the lock feature invaluable. Anyone wanting proven odor control should also consider this model.

Who Should Skip This

If you do not have pets, you may prefer a model without the lock mechanism to save a bit on price. The small opening may also frustrate those who frequently dispose of large items.

8. BestOffice 13 Gallon Automatic – Budget Champion

The BestOffice automatic trash can proves you do not need to spend a fortune for touchless convenience. At around half the price of premium options, it delivers the core features most people want. After testing it for two weeks, I found it to be a solid budget choice.

The oval design looks modern and fits well in contemporary kitchens. The touchless sensor worked, though I sometimes needed to wave my hand twice to trigger it. The sealed lid did a decent job containing odors on its own.

I appreciated the power button that disables the sensor. This is useful for preventing pets from triggering it or saving battery when away. The lack of an inner bucket meant easier cleaning and slightly more capacity.

The build quality reflects the price point. The stainless steel is thinner than premium models. Some users report units failing within weeks, though replacements are usually quick. The 13-gallon capacity felt smaller in practice, possibly due to the oval shape.

Who Should Choose This

Budget-conscious buyers wanting basic touchless functionality will find great value here. It is also good for those trying out automatic trash cans before investing in a premium model.

Who Should Skip This

If you want long-term reliability or premium build quality, spending more on an iTouchless or EKO model is worthwhile. The sensor responsiveness may also frustrate those wanting instant opening.

9. EKO Brio 2.6 Gallon – Compact Perfection

The EKO Brio is perfect for bathrooms, bedrooms, and small spaces where a full-size kitchen trash can would be overkill. At just 5.9 inches wide, it fits in spots no other touchless can could go. Despite its small size, it packs impressive features.

The motion sensor was the most responsive of any model I tested, opening within a fraction of a second. The soft-close lid is whisper quiet, important for nighttime bathroom use. The IPX4 waterproof rating means bathroom humidity is no concern.

The battery life blew me away. Two AA batteries lasted over six months of daily use. The night light feature that illuminates when the lid opens is a thoughtful touch for dark bathrooms. The included starter bags were a nice bonus.

Capacity is the obvious limitation. At 2.6 gallons, this fills quickly with anything beyond light bathroom waste. The proprietary bags cost more than standard small trash bags, which adds to the long-term cost.

Who Should Choose This

Bathroom installations, bedrooms, dorm rooms, and offices will benefit from this compact design. Anyone wanting premium features in a small package will appreciate the quality.

Who Should Skip This

Kitchen use will require frequent emptying. Those wanting to use standard bags should look elsewhere, as the proprietary bags are required for the best fit.

10. funest Smart Bathroom Trash Can – Rechargeable Innovation

The funest smart trash can brings innovation to the bathroom waste category and stands out as one of the best automated smart trash cans with odor control. The rechargeable battery eliminates the ongoing cost of D batteries. The automatic bag suction feature is genuinely useful for keeping liners in place without visible overhang.

The 0.2-second sensor response was among the fastest I tested. The can detects not just hand waves but also knee bends and foot gestures, making it easy to open when your hands are full. The IPX5 waterproof rating handles bathroom environments confidently.

I appreciated never buying batteries. A single charge lasts weeks of daily use, and the Type-C charging is convenient. The slim 6-inch width fits perfectly beside toilets and vanities.

The charging port is inside the lid, which means you cannot close it while charging. The sensor needs some ambient light to work reliably, making it less ideal for very dark bathrooms. Some users received non-functional units, so testing promptly after delivery is wise.

Who Should Choose This

Bathroom installations benefit from the waterproof design and compact size. Those tired of buying D batteries will love the rechargeable feature. The bag suction is great for a clean look.

Who Should Skip This

Very dark bathrooms may cause sensor issues. If you need a can that works while charging, the lid-open charging design will frustrate you. Kitchen use will outgrow the capacity quickly.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Automated Smart Trash Can in 2026?

Choosing the right touchless trash can involves more than just picking the first one you see. After testing 10 models, I learned that small differences in features can significantly impact daily satisfaction. Here is what to consider before buying.

Odor Control Technologies

Odor control is the main reason people upgrade to smart trash cans. Three main technologies exist: carbon filters, UV purification, and sealed designs. Carbon filters like iTouchless’s AbsorbX system absorb odors passively and work well for general kitchen waste. UV purification like the Ninestars Nova actively kills odor-causing bacteria and is more effective for strong smells. Sealed designs contain odors mechanically and work best when combined with regular cleaning.

For serious odor control, I recommend UV+Ozone systems for their active purification. For general use, quality carbon filters are sufficient. You can also improve any can’s odor control by properly sealing food waste before disposal. Our guide on food vacuum sealers can help with that.

Sensor Types and Responsiveness

Infrared motion sensors vary significantly in quality. Cheap sensors may need multiple waves to trigger or trigger falsely when you walk past. Quality sensors open reliably within an inch or two of approach. Look for models with adjustable sensitivity or delay features if you have a high-traffic kitchen.

Some models like the funest can detect gestures beyond hand waves, including knee bends and foot motions. This is useful when your hands are messy from cooking. Voice-activated models exist but tend to be significantly more expensive.

Power Source Options

Three power options exist: disposable batteries, rechargeable batteries, and AC adapters. Disposable D batteries typically last 6-12 months but add ongoing cost. Rechargeable systems like the funest or Airdeer eliminate battery purchases but require charging every few months. AC adapters provide constant power but require outlet access.

For most kitchens, I prefer plug-in models like the Ninestars Nova for their reliability. For bathrooms and locations without convenient outlets, rechargeable or battery-powered options work well.

Capacity Considerations

Trash can capacity should match your household size and disposal frequency. A family of four typically needs 13 gallons minimum for kitchen use. Single people or couples might be fine with 4-8 gallons. For bathrooms and bedrooms, 2-3 gallons is usually sufficient.

Remember that advertised capacity often differs from usable capacity. Models without inner buckets offer more space. Oval shapes may hold less than rectangular designs of the same gallon rating.

Smart Features to Consider

Beyond basic touchless operation, several advanced features exist. Self-sealing technology like the Airdeer automatically seals full bags, great for odor containment and hygiene. Self-changing systems replace bags automatically, eliminating the handling of new bags entirely. Pet-proof locks prevent animals from accessing trash, essential for dog owners.

For storage and organization beyond waste management, check out our guide on storage bins with lids for complementary solutions.

FAQs

Conclusion

After testing 10 automated smart trash cans, my top recommendation is the Ninestars 13 Gallon Nova, which stands out as one of the best automated smart trash cans with odor control due to its superior UV+Ozone odor purification. The EKO Mirage-T offers excellent value with proven reliability, while the BestOffice model delivers touchless convenience at the lowest price. Pet owners should consider the iTouchless with pet-proof lock, and anyone wanting self-sealing technology should look at the Airdeer. Whichever model you choose, a quality smart trash can will make your kitchen cleaner, fresher, and more convenient every day.