What is an automatic trash can?
The advent of technology in all everyday objects can sometimes be criticized. However concerning the garbage cans, it is quite legitimate. Indeed, who has not already opened their trash can with their fingertips and grimaced?
The advantage of a sensitive bin is thus to avoid the user touching his bin while getting rid of this waste in a good mood. It is also necessary to select a durable automatic trash can adapted to your needs.
The objective of this guide is to enlighten you on the different models present on the market, thanks to a rigorous selection which is detailed in this guide and in the articles. And thus help you find a reliable, aesthetic trash can that is above all adapted to your needs .
To this end, you will find the details of our tests in the articles and a selection of 3 of our best automatic bins classified by gender further down in this guide.
In fact, an automatic trash can means a trash can whose opening is controlled electronically . As opposed to mechanical bins which must then be operated by hand, or the endless pedal bins, which as their name suggests have a pedal that you push to open them.
The advantage of a sensor bin is therefore to offer the user perfect hygiene when collecting waste. Since there is no contact between the trash (and especially the old waste) and the user.
How does an automatic trash can work?
Thanks to a presence detection device , the bin is able to recognize an opening or closing order. Order which is executed by a motor and its mechanism controlling the tilting of the dustbin valve . The technology used to detect this presence is infrared. Without going into detail, but it remains simple: our body and any object radiates in the infrared.
Then the fact of approaching the hand or an object close to the presence sensor, the latter detects a variation of the usual infrared radiation. This will control the opening or closing of the bin, allowing you to have both hands free to clear.
An automatic trash can is above all an electric trash can insofar as it is electrically powered. This is done systematically using batteries. Obviously, the more optimal the mechanism, the more the batteries will stand the test of time.
If you hear of sensor bin or sensitive bin , it is still the same thing. Indeed, this type of bin has infrared sensors that detect the presence of a hand or an object and trigger the opening of the waste collector. We make sure these are sensitive enough to make your life easy when you want to get rid of your trash with cluttered hands.
The concentration of airborne germs or bacteria in a trash can can reach up to 1000 per cubic meter, so it’s best to keep your hands as far away from the trash as possible. With an automatic trash can , you eliminate the risk of coming into contact with germs and bacteria in your trash. And the hands-free operation of an automatic trash can is not only more hygienic, it is also more convenient.
What is The Automatic Trash Cans
Office 13 Gallon 50 Liter Automatic Touch
Do you want to acquire a reliable family automatic trash can without breaking the bank? Then the BestOffice Store trash can has many arguments for you!
With its brushed and discreet design , the BestOffice Store bin will suit the greatest number of families. Otherwise, the possibility of choosing the color among 2 colors is a big advantage. Some people prefer to have a sensitive bin with a stainless steel look for the sobriety and chic that this can bring to an interior decoration.
Others will then choose the matte black shade which eliminates the fingerprints that can be seen on previous models. So there is something for everyone , we have mentioned only a few frequent cases.
With a capacity of 50 liters , it is perfectly suited to even the largest families. Obviously it is compatible with garbage bags with a capacity of 50 liters and an effective strapping device will effectively maintain this bag. Note that there are also 2 lower capacity models for couples, singles or people saving on waste. Or 30 liters and 40 liters .
The valve can be opened in several ways. Already by remote control and that is the goal. Or by the OPEN or CLOSE buttons which will respectively allow to open or close the valve. This is very interesting especially when you want to keep the automatic bin open in order to unload several pieces of waste.
Finally if ever the batteries should show any weak or if the automatic mode is deactivated, there are simply notches allowing to manually operate the valve.
hOmeLabs 13 Gallon Automatic Trash Can
Do you have a large family? Enough space for a large trash can? Do you want automatic opening for the hygiene of your kitchen? Few of the reliable automatic bin models. Even rarer are reliable, high-capacity automatic bins . But we’ve picked out the best automatic trash can here: the hOmeLabs 13 Gallon Automatic Trash Can!
True to its reputation, Kitchen Move presents a brushed metal model. This type of stainless coating allows you to hope to keep your trash for a very long time . And that’s what we’re looking for when buying a family trash can like this.
Available in several capacities including the 2 largest: 68 and 80 liters. You will be able to change your garbage bag less frequently. Despite everything, the price remains relatively affordable when the competition can display pricing that is often 2 or 3 times more expensive!
In the event of dead batteries, you will be able to continue using your Kitchen Move automatic trash can. This thanks to 2 discreet trap doors located on the sides and allowing the valve to be opened manually. Everything has been studied.
simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can
Far from being a beginner in the field, the Wis brand has put all its knowledge into this model of trash. And you will see it over time. Everything is well thought out : the liner of the bin, the opening mechanism and the size. To learn more, read our article on how to choose the size of your trash can .
Who says stainless steel appearance says fingerprints. Well no, or else we’ll have to really insist. And it is this same coating that will prevent you from the appearance of traces of rust that often spell the end of these automatic trash cans. Finally, note that maintenance will be easier if you use sponges that are not very corrosive.
In terms of capacity, 50 liters will be excellent for a normal family and comfortable for a larger family. On the other hand, with this volume and this appearance, this Finether trash can will fit discreetly and elegantly into your kitchen. The opening is possible without contacting with an infrared sensor or by manually pressing the buttons provided for this purpose.
In use, the 4 LR06 type batteries are more than enough to last for months depending on your use. The mechanism, if it is not brutalized, can easily last several years . You will be able to dispose of your waste hygienically and over time .
iTouchless 13 Gallon Touchless Sensor Trash Can
With a rather original design , the trash can will appeal to people who fully assume the presence of their trash in the kitchen. Certainly it is an object that collects waste and therefore it is not very sexy. But why not make it a beautiful object that can give your decoration a boost ?
This is the challenge taken up by Kitchen Move, specialist in indoor trash. Thus, the possibility of choosing between 2 colors will allow the most expressive to express themselves. If not for the more discreet or pro-Brexit, a model with a completely sober and volatile stainless steel appearance will do your business.
That said, the manufacturer’s effort hasn’t been all about appearance. The presence of suitable materials such as; stainless steel and ABS plastic will guarantee the durability of this automatic trash can . We have found that the mechanism is both silent when closing and completely sealed against bad odors .
Finally, the nominal capacity is 30 liters but can also be purchased in a 42-liter version. With a diameter of only 30 centimeters, this can trash can easily fit in your kitchen.
Among the other brands of trash, a little news has appeared. The SimpleHuman trash can comes to us from California and is one of the best automatic trash cans on the market.
The automatic trash can among other types of trash
Finally, the automatic trash can is most often found in the kitchen. Some will call it a kitchen trash can, but you have to be careful to differentiate it from the under-sink trash can . Indeed, the latter fits under the sink for maximum practicality. To find out more, we encourage you to discover the page of our site devoted to under-sink bins.
In the category of modern automatic bins, we also have on this site new bins. First, the automatic vacuum trash can or vacuum cleaner . But also, a little analysis of smart bins and their arrival in France.
Before making your purchase, ask yourself the question: Are you looking for a bin to be placed only under the sink and sliding? Or do you prefer an independent and movable bin like the sensor bin?
How to choose the color of your automatic trash can
Whether you choose a red or black or even a white automatic bin, nothing changes regarding the mechanism, longevity or even capacity. And that is indeed the subject of our guide earlier. Now it is not uncommon for a manufacturer to offer only certain colors and you cannot find the one that interests you… So you have to choose another model because the color is unavailable. Don’t panic, we offer you the best automatic bins in the most common colors.
The best stainless steel automatic trash can: B000EJVYTS
This color is the most versatile and the most common. So also the one that will pose the least problem to you to match your interior decoration.
Made of stainless steel, this automatic stainless steel bin from Finether is covered in an elegant and sophisticated gray color. With dimensions equal to 12.75 x 10.75 x 27.88 cm, you won’t have to devote a lot of space to it.
When it comes to any type of travel, especially when it needs to be emptied, the Finether automatic trash can remains relatively light with a weight of 2.9 kg. Finally, its capacity of 40 liters is also versatile for small and large households. Only 3 LR20 batteries are enough to power this stainless steel sensor bin for several months or even 1 or 2 years depending on your use.
The best black automatic trash can B000N5WLB8
The strengths of this sensitive VonHaus waste bin are as follows: Robustness that stands the test of time, not the German manufacturing quality testifies to it. A black appearance of very good quality.
The infrared sensors are rather sensitive and allow you to open this electric trash can very easily. Changing the 52 liter garbage bag is child’s play. All this contributes to maximum hygiene and this is what is expected of an automatic trash can.
The best red automatic trash can: B01LYC0COI
Buying a red automatic trash can can be a great choice if your decor allows it. Today the appearance is so neat that to consider it as an ornamental object in its own right is quite possible and credible. Consider, for example, a lightly colored decor based on a shade of gray and this type of bin will enhance the warmth of your interior in an instant.
Take for example the red model opposite from Kitchen Move. With a capacity of 30 liters, it is perfectly suited to most households in terms of capacity. Its appearance is extremely neat and it is quite possible to change the electronic part if it were to be defective. This red sensor bin, although inexpensive, is a buy for the future.
How to use and preserve your automatic trash can?
An automatic trash can is necessarily more fragile than a mechanical trash can . This is due to the presence of electronics which may fear liquid projections for example. Or by the presence of an opening and closing mechanism that will quickly capitulate to brutality.
So, the usage recommendations are pretty obvious. It will be necessary to constantly avoid liquid projections on the electronic parts of the trash can and in particular the presence sensor. To avoid tampering with the electronic circuit or the infrared sensor.
Then take care never to obstruct the opening of the valve or its closure. The risk is to force the engine or the mechanics and damage it irreparably. As a result, in particular, the waste bin will have to be unloaded before the waste passes the valve.
In any case, to properly close the plastic bag and avoid unpleasant odors, it is often necessary to unload well beforehand.
With these recommendations, the use of an automatic trash can really change your life !
Choosing the right bin for you: our evaluation criteria
To prevent you from making a bad choice, we give you the list of criteria that we check . Some relate to appearance or size and there we can only let you decide. However, other criteria must be monitored for a satisfactory user experience and we evaluate them in our tests.
- The size : a large family in a house or a large apartment will probably need a larger trash can than a single person in an apartment. It’s up to you, too.
- Durability : The presence of electronics requires us to carefully monitor user feedback and eliminate unsustainable models.
- Sensitivity : the bin must open firmly and when the hand approaches. Neither untimely, nor too slowly.
- The ease of bag replacement : as with mechanical bins, hygiene conditions must also be there when changing the bin bag.
- The little extras : Possibility of deactivating the presence detector, or of activating with a button, etc.
- Appearance : you will need to choose a bin that looks good on you. In this comparison, there is something for everyone. From discreet bins, to chic bins through more fun bins. Up to you!
The added value of a trash can to your interior decoration
In conclusion, the trash can has become an ornamental object in its own right . So depending on its color, shape or even its material, it can give your interior decoration a boost . In fact, the most versatile models are stainless steel items . Thus they will agree at the same time with a vintage, modern or design arrangement. They therefore represent a large part of our collection. See for yourself:
Do you need a contactless or automatic trash can?
The lid of a contactless waste bin opens by itself. Most automatic bins are equipped with a motion sensor. If you wave your hand or your garbage in front of the bin, the lid will open automatically. Some contactless bins have a foot pedal. When you press the pedal, the cover opens.
Advantages of automatic bins
Space saving
Many automatic bins have a compact design that takes up less space in your kitchen or bathroom than traditional bins.
Hygienic
Because you don’t have to touch the trash can to dispose of your waste, you are not exposed to germs, bacteria and viruses that might be present in the waste.
Security
You can lock a contactless trash can, so your pets can’t throw in the trash and mess.
Time saving
Since you are not in contact with the waste, you won’t have to stop in the middle of cooking to wash your hands after throwing something away.
Ergonomic
You don’t have to bend down or squat to open a touchless trash can, so the design feels much nicer on your back and knees.
Wider opening
Touchless bins often have wider openings than other bins, so you can easily throw out larger items.
While touchless trash cans are typically used in kitchens or bathrooms, they are also a good idea for offices, where many people share a trash can.
What should you consider when purchasing an automatic trash can?
The motion sensor
It is important to know what features to look for in the motion detector of a contactless trash can. Prevent accidental opening of the contactless waste bin by choosing a model equipped with an upward facing motion sensor. It’s less likely to detect passing people or pets, so the lid won’t open when you don’t want it.
For the most convenient contactless control, select a trash can with a sensor that detects movement at as far a distance as possible. Go for a model that can detect motion up to 10 inches away. To make automatic trash cans even more hygienic, some models have an antimicrobial coating on the outside.
Choose an automatic trash can with a waterproof motion sensor . It’s common for liquids to spill inside a trash can, so you want a sensor that won’t stop working if it gets wet.
Size
Automatic trash cans are available in a range of sizes from small 15 liter models to extra large 100 liter models. The standard size of a kitchen trash can is 50 liters. So this is a good option if you are not sure which size to choose.
However, if you want an automatic trash can placed inside a cabinet, go for a smaller model that can hold 15 to 40 liters . On the other hand, if you have a large household that generates a lot of waste, a 40-60 liter automatic trash can is a better option.
The material
Automatic trash cans are usually made of metal or plastic . The automatic metal bins are the most common. They are a popular choice because they are extremely durable and do not retain odors as easily as plastic. They offer a stylish look, too. While stainless steel is the most common finish, you can also find touchless metal trash cans with brushed nickel, gold, rose gold, bronze, and even colored finishes.
The automatic plastic bins are not as durable as metal options, and they are more likely to retain odors and stains. They are usually less expensive, however, and they are available in a variety of colors, including neutrals like black, white, and gray. If you go for a touchless stainless steel trash can, go for a trash can with an anti-fingerprint finish to prevent smudging.
The form
Automatic bins are available in square, rectangular, oval and round shapes . If you plan to use the trash can in a smaller space, a square or rectangular style is the best option because you can easily place the trash can in a corner. Round or oval automatic trash cans require more space, making them a better choice for large kitchens and bathrooms. For a space-saving automatic trash can, opt for a square or rectangular shape.
Utilisation facility
The easiest automatic trash cans to use are those equipped with infrared motion detectors. Just wave your hand or the object you throw in front of the sensor and the lid opens and closes automatically.
An automatic trash can with a foot pedal requires you to step on the foot pedal to open and close the lid. These models are not difficult to use. But the elderly or the disabled or injured can find it easier with a contactless trash can equipped with a motion sensor.
The power
The automatic garbage with motion sensor require a power source. Most models are battery powered, so you don’t have to worry about placing the trash can near a power outlet.
However, some contactless trash cans also come with a power adapter, which allows you to choose between battery or outlet operation. The power adapter can come in handy if the batteries in the trash can are dead and you don’t want to run out immediately to buy a new device.
Touchless pedal bins do not require any power source to operate.
The type of batteries required for contactless trash cans vary from model to model, but most use C or D batteries.
The filter
Some automatic trash cans have a charcoal filter that absorbs odors, so your trash doesn’t smell. It’s a feature you’ll pay extra for, but it’s worth it if you’re worried about odors. Keep in mind that you will need to periodically replace the filter in your contactless trash can, which increases the cost of the trash can.
The closure
If you choose a touchless trash can with a motion sensor, it’s best to choose a model that you can lock if you have pets or small children in the house. In most cases, the locking mechanism is simply an on / off switch for the motion sensor . When the motion detector is off, the cover will not open. This prevents garbage from spreading all over the floor if your pet or child spills it.
The most common questions about automatic trash cans
How long do batteries last in a contactless trash can?
The battery life of an automatic trash can depends on the type of batteries and how often the trash can be opened and closed. Typically the batteries should last about six months . Some contactless trash cans also have a power adapter that allows you to plug the trash can into a power outlet to power it.
Can I use regular trash bags in an automatic trash can?
Most automatic trash cans are compatible with standard trash bags of the appropriate size. However, some models are smaller than traditional trash cans. Ordinary garbage bags are therefore not exactly suitable. Some automatic trash can manufacturers sell custom bags to make sure the fit is right.
What features should I look for in an automatic trash can if I have pets?
While automatic trash cans are often effective in preventing pets from entering the trash, a large dog or other animal may be able to activate the motion sensor. To prevent your pet from falling into the trash, look for a contactless trash can that locks so you can secure it when you’re not around to keep an eye on your furry friend.
How much do automatic garbage cans cost?
The price of automatic bins varies depending on the material, size and other characteristics. But you can generally expect to spend between $ 30 and $ 150. For a simple plastic or metal contactless bin, you will usually pay between 25 and 45 $.
Mid-range, for a small automatic metal trash can with special features, you will usually pay between $ 50 and $ 80. Finally, for a large automatic metal trash can with a variety of special features, you will usually pay between $ 80 and $ 150.
Our advice for using your automatic trash can
Always keep the motion detector in a non-contact, clean and dry trash can. The trash can may not open properly if moisture or debris blocks the sensor. Keep the contactless trash can motion sensor out of direct sunlight, which may prevent the sensor from working properly.
Place an automatic trash can in a location where the lid is not blocked for opening or closing. This means that you may not be able to place it under a counter depending on the size of the trash can. Be careful not to overfill a trash bag in a contactless trash can. Because a trash bag fits in a touchless trash can easily tear when you take it out. You may also have difficulty removing an overfilled bag.
Automatic trash cans usually have an inner lid that holds the trash bag in place, so you don’t have to worry about it slipping into the trash.
In conclusion, the trash can has become an ornamental object in its own right . So depending on its color, shape or even its material, it can give your interior decoration a boost . In fact, the most versatile models are stainless steel items . Thus they will agree at the same time with a vintage, modern or design arrangement. They therefore represent a large part of our collection.
