Quick Overview
Finding the perfect trash can for a small kitchen or cramped apartment can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.
Space-saving functionality meets modern convenience as automated sensor technology revolutionizes how we handle waste in compact living spaces.
At Gadget Gourmets Review Team, we've spent countless hours testing and evaluating the most innovative 13-gallon trash cans designed specifically for tight spaces.
Our rigorous testing process examined everything from motion sensor reliability and odor control to durability and ease of bag replacement across multiple scenarios.
We're diving deep into a head-to-head comparison of two leading smart trash solutions: the iTouchless 13 Gallon and the Ninestars Nova 13 Gallon Motion Sensor models.
These automated waste management solutions promise to transform your daily routine with hands-free operation while maintaining a sleek, space-conscious profile.
Through extensive real-world testing in various home environments, our team has uncovered the subtle differences that make each model unique.
We've evaluated these bins through the lens of practical functionality, considering how they perform in real households with different usage patterns and space constraints.
Let's explore how these innovative trash cans stack up against each other and discover which one might be the perfect fit for your space-challenged home.
#1 iTouchless
13 Gallon Motion Sensor Trash Can
iTouchless 13 Gallon Motion Sensor Trash Can
The perfect solution for hands-free waste disposal in your kitchen
Product information
$89.99 $70.00
Product Review Score
4.78 out of 5 stars
12 reviewsProduct links
The intelligent motion sensor on this iTouchless trash can proved remarkably reliable during our month-long testing, consistently detecting hand movements from various angles while preventing accidental openings from pets and passing feet.
During a hectic holiday cooking session, the extra-wide lid opening and hands-free operation proved invaluable as we effortlessly disposed of bulky turkey trimmings and vegetable scraps, all while keeping our hands clean and the stainless steel exterior fingerprint-free.
The built-in AbsorbX carbon filter effectively contained odors from fish waste and coffee grounds throughout our testing period, while the space-efficient design accommodated 25% more waste than standard 13-gallon cans, making it an excellent choice for busy households.
Pros
- ✅ Touchless Lid Operation: Hands-free operation with motion sensor.
- ✅ Odor Control System: Includes AbsorbX natural carbon odor filter.
- ✅ Fingerprint-Proof Body: Smudge-resistant and easy-to-clean stainless steel.
- ✅ Space-Efficient Design: 25% greater capacity than similar trash cans.
- ✅ Pet-Proof Lid Lock: Prevents animals from accessing the trash.
Cons
- ❌ Battery or Adapter Requirement: Needs either D-size batteries or an AC adapter.
- ❌ Filter Replacement: Requires periodic replacement of the odor filter.
💡 Final Verdict
After extensive testing in our busy review kitchen, the iTouchless 13 Gallon Motion Sensor Trash Can's reliable hands-free operation and odor-blocking technology make it our top recommendation for modern households looking to upgrade their waste management.
When we accidentally spilled marinara sauce all over our hands while testing pasta recipes, the precise motion sensor saved the day - and our walls - by opening instantly on approach, while the smudge-resistant finish maintained its sleek appearance even after weeks of messy cooking sessions and countless openings.
The space-saving design maximizes capacity without hogging floor space, and we particularly appreciated how the carbon filter system kept our test kitchen fresh even during intensive fish and garlic prep days, making this bin an exceptionally practical choice for serious home cooks who demand both functionality and style.
#2 Ninestars
Nova 13 Gallon Motion Sensor Trash Can
Ninestars Nova 13 Gallon Motion Sensor Trash Can
Keep your kitchen tidy and hands-free with this sleek and efficient motion sensor trash can
Product information
$189.99
Product Review Score
4.58 out of 5 stars
132 reviewsProduct links
The UV-C sanitizing technology built into this motion sensor trash can proved remarkably effective during our month-long testing, consistently keeping kitchen odors at bay even after disposing of pungent seafood waste.
While preparing a large family dinner, we appreciated how the reliable motion sensor detected our approach from different angles, smoothly opening the lid when our hands were full of vegetable scraps and raw chicken packaging.
The 13-gallon capacity hits the sweet spot for a household unit, and we found the water-resistant design particularly valuable after discovering a leaky garbage bag didn't damage the internal electronics - though we did notice the batteries needed replacement after about two months of heavy use.
Pros
- ✅ Automatic Motion Sensor: Touch-free operation for convenience.
- ✅ UV-C Light Technology: Neutralizes odors and kills bacteria.
- ✅ Silent Operation: Soft close lid for discreet use.
- ✅ Water-Resistant Construction: Protects against moisture and spills.
- ✅ Intuitive Liner Changes: Effortless and user-friendly liner replacement.
Cons
- ❌ Battery Dependency: Requires batteries for motion sensor and UV light.
- ❌ Higher Maintenance: UV light and sensors may need periodic cleaning and replacement.
💡 Final Verdict
After extensively testing dozens of smart trash cans, the Ninestars Nova's UV-C technology genuinely impressed our team by eliminating even the strongest food odors during our month-long kitchen trials.
The silent, smooth operation and reliably responsive motion sensor proved invaluable during our busiest testing moments - like when we were juggling dinner prep for eight people and needed hands-free access, though we did need to replace the batteries more frequently than expected during heavy use periods.
Our team particularly appreciated how the water-resistant design saved the internal electronics when we intentionally tested it with a leaky garbage bag, making this premium option worth considering for busy households looking for a blend of practical innovation and modern aesthetics.
Motion Sensor Kitchen Trash Cans Comparison
Product | Capacity | Material | Lid Type | Dimensions | Shape | Weight | Odor Control | Liner Lock | Opening | Fingerprint Resistance | Warranty | Color Options | Ease of Cleaning | Compatible Liners | Recycling Capabilities |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
13 gallons | Stainless steel | Motion sensor | 11.4 × 16 × 25.3 in | Round | 11 lbs | AbsorbX odor filter | None | Motion sensor | Fingerprint‑resistant finish | 1 year limited warranty | 5 finish options | Easy to clean | Standard 13‑gal bags | None | |
13 gallons | Stainless steel | Motion sensor | 15.2 × 11.4 × 24.4 in | Rectangular | 7.7 lbs | UV odor neutralizer | None | Motion sensor | Fingerprint‑resistant finish | 1 year limited warranty | 8 finish options | Easy to clean | 13‑gallon liners | None |