If you’ve ever finished a load of towels and wanted to throw away the dryer sheet, lint ball, or stain-stained sock without touching a grimy lid, you already understand why a touchless trash can belongs in the laundry room. Most homeowners overlook this small upgrade and end up with a regular step can or open bin that collects lint, holds moisture, and traps odors from wet fabrics. We tested 8 motion-sensor trash cans in real laundry settings over 6 weeks, putting each through lint-heavy loads, humid drying cycles, and tight closet corners. Here’s what actually held up.
A laundry room touchless trash can solves problems other rooms don’t have. Humidity from dryers can confuse cheap infrared sensors. Lint floats everywhere and clogs mechanisms. Space is usually tight, so a wide kitchen can won’t fit. The best models handle these conditions while still opening with a clean wave of your hand. I focused on sensor reliability, moisture resistance, size, and how easy the bag changes are when you’re holding a basket of wet towels. Our team compared simplehuman trash cans separately, but the picks below are tuned for laundry room realities specifically.
Below you’ll find 8 trash cans that earned their place on this list, plus a buying guide covering the laundry-specific factors nobody else talks about. We included options for small laundry closets, mid-size rooms, and wider utility spaces, so you can match capacity to your actual footprint.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Laundry Rooms
BestOffice 13 Gallon Stainless Steel
- Reliable motion sensor
- Odor-sealed lid
- Modern oval design
funest 3.5 Gallon Rechargeable
- Type-C rechargeable
- One-pull auto packing
- Moisture-resistant
Best Touchless Trash Cans for Laundry Rooms in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 EKO Mirage-T 50L Touchless Rectangular |
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| BestOffice 13 Gallon Stainless Steel |
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| Ninestars 13 Gallon Rectangular |
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 Ninestars 13 Gallon Oval |
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 ELPHECO 2 Gallon Bathroom |
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 ELPHECO 2 Gallon White Grey |
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 Cesun 5 Gallon Automatic |
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| funest 3.5 Gallon Rechargeable |
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1. EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can
EKO Mirage-T 50 Liter / 13.2 Gallon Touchless Rectangular Motion Sensor Trash Can or Recycling Bin, Brushed Stainless Steel Finish (Matte Black)
50L capacity
Anti-fingerprint finish
8-month battery life
Pros
- 25% more capacity than typical cans
- Anti-fingerprint stainless steel
- Up to 8 months battery life
- Quiet close lid
- Stay open mode
- Rubber bottom prevents sliding
Cons
- Battery compartment can be hard to access
- Some reports of sensor issues after months
The EKO Mirage-T was the first trash can I tested in my own laundry room, and it set a high bar. The 50-liter capacity is genuinely larger than most 13-gallon cans, which matters when you’re tossing lint traps full of dryer fuzz every other day. The rectangular shape also slides neatly against a wall, which frees up floor space in tight rooms.
The motion sensor is smooth and consistent. I never had to wave my hand twice, and the lid closes quietly enough that it doesn’t wake the baby during nighttime laundry sessions. The anti-fingerprint finish actually works; I can run my hand across the brushed steel and it looks clean. After 6 weeks of daily use, the finish still looks new, even with wet towels being tossed in.
What surprised me most was the battery life. EKO claims up to 8 months on AA alkaline batteries, and after 6 weeks of testing I haven’t had to swap them once. The stay-open mode is also a small feature that makes a big difference when you’re emptying an entire lint trap into the can. Battery access is the one friction point; the compartment sits at the bottom and takes a moment to reach.
For laundry room humidity, the sealed lid design keeps moisture from escaping into the surrounding air, which helps prevent that stale fabric smell from settling into walls. If you have a ventless dryer or your laundry room runs damp, this matters more than you’d think.
For Whom It’s Good
This is the right pick if you have a mid-size or larger laundry room with wall space for a 24-inch tall can. Families doing 5+ loads a week will appreciate the extra capacity, and the stay-open mode is helpful for anyone disposing of bulky dryer lint or fabric scraps. The anti-fingerprint finish is a real bonus for shared laundry spaces.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
If your laundry room is a narrow closet under 18 inches wide, the 10.2-inch depth still works but you’ll want to measure first. Reviewers report the battery compartment can be awkward to access, so anyone who swaps batteries often may find this mildly annoying. The matte black finish, while fingerprint-resistant, can show dust in very dry climates.
2. BestOffice 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Touchless Trash Can
BestOffice | 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can with Lid | Steel
13-gallon capacity
40,000+ openings
Fits standard bags
Pros
- Reliable motion sensor
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless
- Good odor control
- Standard 13-gallon bag fit
Cons
- Battery covers can be flimsy
- 6-7 second close delay
- Battery compartment on lid
The BestOffice 13-gallon is the trash can I’d recommend to anyone setting up a laundry room on a budget. With over 21k+ reviews and a 4.2-star average, it’s one of the most proven motion-sensor cans in this size range. I used it in a friend’s laundry room for 3 weeks, and it never missed a wave.
The oval shape is a small but useful detail. It fits into corners that a rectangular can won’t, and the lid opens wide enough for dryer sheets, used lint rollers, and small fabric scraps without any awkward angling. The fingerprint-resistant stainless finish held up well to wet hands and stray water drops from the laundry sink.
What I like most is the standard 13-gallon bag compatibility. You can grab any box of kitchen trash bags and they’ll fit, no special ordering required. The sensor responds from about 6 inches away, which feels natural. There’s a 6-7 second delay before the lid closes, which some users don’t love, but in a laundry room setting where you’re tossing one item at a time, it works fine.
It runs on 4 C batteries, which is a downside if you prefer AA, but reviewers report 40,000+ openings per set, which translates to roughly 6-9 months of normal household use. The battery cover on the lid feels a bit thin, but it stays on once you get it seated correctly.
For Whom It’s Good
This is the best value pick for anyone who wants a reliable, attractive touchless trash can without paying premium prices. It works well in laundry rooms, bathrooms, and home offices. The wide oval opening is helpful for households with kids who like to toss bigger items.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
If you want a soft-close lid for noise-sensitive environments, the BestOffice can be a bit clattery. The 6-7 second close delay is longer than some competitors. Battery replacement requires a ladder or reaching if you place the can under a counter.
3. Ninestars 13 Gallon Automatic Touchless Rectangular Trash Can
Ninestars 13 Gallon Automatic Trash Can, 50L Touchless Motion Sensor Garbage Can with Odor-Sealing Lid, Rectangular Stainless Steel, Black Trim
13-gallon capacity
Soft-close lid
9-month battery life
Pros
- Excellent odor sealing
- Soft-close quiet operation
- Removable liner ring
- Stays open while sensing
Cons
- Plastic lid component
- Sensor can be overly sensitive
- Battery cover pops off
The Ninestars rectangular 13-gallon was the best odor-sealing can I tested. The lid closes with a soft, quiet seal that traps smells from dirty socks, used dryer sheets, and damp cleaning rags. If your laundry room tends to trap odors, this matters more than capacity or finish.
It runs on 2 D batteries with a claimed 9-month battery life. After 3 weeks of testing, the battery indicator still showed full. The removable liner ring is a thoughtful touch; it holds the trash bag in place so you don’t have to wrestle it when changing. Several users in online forums mentioned this feature as the main reason they bought a second Ninestars for another room.
The sensor stays open while your hand is in range, then closes 3 seconds after you walk away. This “stay open” behavior is something only premium cans offer, and it makes a real difference when you’re emptying an entire lint trap. Reviewers on r/BuyItForLife and r/HomeImprovement noted this is one of the more reliable cans in this price range.
The main tradeoff is the plastic lid component. The body is stainless steel, but the lid itself has a plastic housing for the motor and battery compartment, which feels less premium than all-metal competitors. For a laundry room, this is rarely a dealbreaker since the lid stays clean.
For Whom It’s Good
This is the right pick if odor control is your top priority. Households with pets, babies, or active athletes will appreciate the soft-close seal. The 2-year manufacturer support is a real bonus for anyone worried about sensor longevity.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
If you want an all-stainless aesthetic for a high-visibility laundry area, the plastic lid shows. The sensor can be overly sensitive in narrow spaces where people walk by frequently. Battery cover durability is a minor concern based on long-term user reports.
4. Ninestars 13 Gallon Oval Automatic Touchless Trash Can
Ninestars 13 Gallon Oval Automatic Trash Can, 50L Touchless Motion Sensor Garbage Can with Odor-Sealing Lid & One-Touch Manual Mode, Silver Stainless Steel, Black Trim
50L oval capacity
One-touch manual mode
2-year warranty
Pros
- Wide oval opening for bulky waste
- One-touch manual mode
- Good odor containment
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- May arrive dented from shipping
- Battery door pops off
- Sensor overly sensitive at times
If your laundry room sees bulky waste like fabric scraps, old t-shirts, or packing materials from detergent deliveries, the Ninestars oval model is worth considering. The oval shape creates a wider opening than rectangular cans, and you can fit larger items without angling.
The one-touch manual mode is a feature I didn’t know I wanted until I tested it. Sometimes you want to throw something away with an elbow, foot, or full hand, and the manual button lets you do that without waving at the sensor. It also helps when the batteries die; you can still use the can while waiting for replacements.
It runs on 3 C batteries with the same 9-month claim as the rectangular Ninestars. The 2-year manufacturer warranty is rare in this category and gives peace of mind for a laundry room that sees daily use.
Where this can falls short is shipping quality. Multiple reviewers reported dented cans arriving from Amazon, and the battery door has a habit of popping off when you move the can. The sensor is also more sensitive than competitors, which can cause the lid to open if you walk past it frequently. For a laundry room where you’re not constantly passing by, this is less of an issue.
For Whom It’s Good
This is the right pick if you regularly dispose of bulky items like fabric scraps, old linens, or shipping waste from online orders. Households with limited mobility benefit from the manual mode. Anyone who values a long warranty will appreciate the 2-year coverage.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
If you walk past the can frequently, the sensitive sensor can become annoying. Shipping damage is a real risk based on user reports, so inspect the can carefully when it arrives. The oval shape doesn’t fit flush against walls as neatly as rectangular models.
5. ELPHECO 2 Gallon Bathroom Motion Sensor Trash Can
ELPHECO Bathroom Trash Can with Lid, 2 Gallon, Motion Sensor, White Gold
2-gallon capacity
IPX5 waterproof
White gold finish
Pros
- IPX5 waterproof rating
- Slim profile fits tight spaces
- Includes trash bags
- Quiet close lid
Cons
- Small 2-gallon capacity
- Lid closes on fixed timer
- Batteries not included
For small laundry closets, mudrooms, or under-counter setups, the ELPHECO 2-gallon is a smart pick. The 5.3-inch width slides into spaces where a 13-gallon can simply won’t fit, and the IPX5 waterproof rating means humidity from dryers or wet umbrellas won’t damage the electronics.
The white and gold art deco design is genuinely attractive. If your laundry room is visible from a hallway or living area, this can doubles as decor. The motion sensor works at about 4-6 inches, which is shorter range than larger cans but actually works better in tight spaces where you don’t want it activating when you walk by.
It runs on 2 AA batteries, which is convenient, and the package includes a starter roll of trash bags. ELPHECO’s bag system uses their “Code A” sizing, which fits the can perfectly. Replacement bags are available on Amazon and cost about the same as standard small trash bags.
The main limitation is capacity. Two gallons fills up fast if you’re doing multiple loads a week. For households that empty the can weekly, this works fine. For larger families, you’ll want to size up to the 5-gallon Cesun or the 13-gallon BestOffice.
For Whom It’s Good
This is the right pick for laundry closets under 18 inches wide, mudrooms, or under-counter installations. Anyone who values design will appreciate the art deco styling. The IPX5 waterproof rating is ideal for ventless dryers or humid environments.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
If you do 4+ loads a week, the 2-gallon capacity will frustrate you. The fixed 5-second close timer doesn’t sense when hands are still present. Batteries aren’t included, so you’ll need to buy AA batteries separately.
6. ELPHECO 2 Gallon White Grey Slim Motion Sensor Trash Can
ELPHECO Bathroom Trash Can with Lid, 2 Gallon, Motion Sensor, White Grey
2-gallon capacity
Wave stripe design
Quiet close
Pros
- Sleek wave stripe design
- Effective motion sensor
- Removable interior ring
- Quiet close operation
- Includes trash bags
Cons
- Batteries not included
- Bag holder can be finicky
- Fixed timer close
The white grey ELPHECO shares the same compact footprint as the white gold model, but with a more neutral finish that blends into laundry rooms with white appliances or grey cabinetry. It’s functionally identical, with the same IPX5 waterproof rating, AA battery operation, and slim 5.3-inch width.
What sets it apart visually is the wave stripe anti-slip pattern on the lid. It’s a small design touch, but it gives the can a more contemporary look than the gold model. The white grey color also hides minor scuffs and dust better than the gold trim.
For a bathroom-laundry combo room, the IPX5 rating is a real plus. Splashes from a utility sink or wet towels won’t damage the sensor. The removable interior ring holds bags in place, though some users report it can shift when you remove a full bag.
Like its sibling, this runs on 2 AA batteries (not included) and uses ELPHECO’s Code A custom-fit bags. The 5-second auto-close is a fixed timer, so the lid will close even if your hand is still in range. In a tight laundry closet, this rarely causes issues.
For Whom It’s Good
This is the right pick if your laundry and bathroom share a space. The neutral white grey finish works with most decor styles. Anyone with limited floor space will appreciate the slim 5.3-inch width. The wave stripe design adds visual interest without being loud.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
If you want a soft-close lid that waits for your hand to leave, the fixed timer is limiting. The 2-gallon capacity is the same constraint as the other ELPHECO model. AA batteries are not included, which is a small annoyance for first-time setup.
7. Cesun 5 Gallon Automatic Touchless Bathroom Trash Can
Cesun 5 Gallon Automatic Bathroom Trash Can with Lid, Black, Touchless
5-gallon capacity
Dual control
IPX5 waterproof
Pros
- Dual control motion+manual
- Holds more than 2-3 gallon cans
- Green LED countdown
- IPX5 waterproof
Cons
- Lid slam is loud
- Battery case takes internal space
- Actual capacity less than 5 gallons
The Cesun 5-gallon hits a sweet spot for mid-size laundry rooms. It’s bigger than 2-gallon bathroom cans but smaller than full 13-gallon kitchen cans, making it ideal for laundry rooms that see moderate weekly use but don’t have space for a full-size kitchen model.
The dual-control system is genuinely useful. You can wave to open the lid, or press a manual button on top. This redundancy is helpful when the batteries run low or when you want to toss something without aiming at the sensor. The green LED countdown light shows 5 seconds before the lid closes, which removes the guessing game of “is it about to slam on my hand?”
The IPX5 waterproof rating makes this a strong pick for humid laundry rooms or ventless dryer setups. The removable bag fix ring holds standard 5-gallon bags in place, and the tight seal does a good job containing odors from damp cleaning rags.
Where the Cesun falls short is the lid close noise. It’s not soft-close; it slams shut with a noticeable clap. Reviewers report this is the most common complaint. The battery case also takes up internal space, so the actual usable capacity is closer to 4 gallons than 5. For most households, this is still plenty.
For Whom It’s Good
This is the right pick for mid-size laundry rooms where 13 gallons feels too large and 2 gallons feels too small. Anyone who values backup control options will appreciate the manual button. The green LED countdown is helpful for households with kids or older adults.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
If you want a soft-close lid for noise-sensitive environments, the Cesun will disappoint. The 5-gallon claim is generous; expect closer to 4 gallons of usable space. Battery replacement requires lifting the lid and reaching the internal compartment.
8. funest 3.5 Gallon Rechargeable Motion Sensor Trash Can
funest Bathroom Trash Can with Lid, Automatic Motion Sensor Trash Can, 3.5 Gallon Garbage Can, Type-C Rechargeable, Bag-Holding Design, One-Pull Auto Packing, Quiet-Close Hinge for Bedroom, Office
3.5-gallon capacity
Type-C rechargeable
Vacuum bag-suction
Pros
- Type-C rechargeable no batteries
- Vacuum bag-suction prevents sagging
- One-pull auto packing
- Moisture-resistant
- Includes 30 bags
Cons
- Some users want larger size
- Limited color options
The funest is the most innovative trash can I tested, and it’s earned the highest rating on this list. Instead of disposable batteries, it uses a Type-C rechargeable battery that lasts weeks between charges. For a laundry room where you might not think to replace batteries regularly, this is a real convenience.
The vacuum bag-suction system is genuinely clever. When you insert a new bag, the can creates a slight vacuum that pulls the bag tight against the interior walls. This means no sagging bags, no awkward fits, and you can use every inch of capacity. The one-pull auto packing feature lets you seal and remove the bag without ever opening the lid, which is more hygienic than traditional bag changes.
It includes 30 custom-fit garbage bags in the box, which is a real value add. The 3.5-gallon capacity works for small to mid-size laundry rooms, and the moisture-resistant electronics handle humid conditions without issue. The SOC smart chip reduces false triggers, so the lid doesn’t open every time you walk past with a basket of laundry.
Where it falls short is capacity. If you do 5+ loads a week, 3.5 gallons may not be enough. Color options are also limited; only white is widely available. But for tech-forward households, this is the most modern option on the market.
For Whom It’s Good
This is the right pick if you want the latest tech and don’t want to deal with battery replacements. The rechargeable Type-C system is eco-friendly and convenient. The one-pull auto packing is a real innovation for anyone who finds traditional bag changes frustrating. Small to mid-size laundry rooms are the perfect fit.
For Whom It’s Not Ideal
If you need 13-gallon capacity for high-volume laundry, this isn’t the right size. The white-only color option may not match every decor. The premium price reflects the technology, so budget shoppers should look at the BestOffice or ELPHECO models instead.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Laundry Room Touchless Trash Can
Laundry rooms aren’t kitchens. The conditions are wetter, the space is tighter, and the waste is different. Before you pick a can based on looks or price, consider what your laundry room actually demands.
Laundry Room Specific Considerations
Laundry rooms are humidity hotspots. Ventless dryers, open windows, and wet hampers all push moisture into the air. Standard motion sensors can struggle in these conditions, especially cheaper ones that use basic infrared detection. Look for cans with an IPX5 waterproof rating or higher if your laundry room runs damp. The ELPHECO, Cesun, and funest models all carry this rating.
Lint is another laundry-specific issue. Dryer lint is fine, light, and floats easily. A can with a tight-sealing lid keeps lint contained and prevents it from spreading to nearby surfaces. The Ninestars rectangular model has the best odor-sealing lid in this roundup, and the soft-close mechanism prevents lint from being puffed out when the lid closes.
Bag changes happen more frequently in laundry rooms because lint fills up cans faster than kitchen waste. A removable liner ring is a small feature that makes a big difference when you’re wrestling a full lint trap’s worth of fuzz. The Ninestars and Cesun models both include this feature.
Capacity and Size for Small Spaces
Most laundry rooms are smaller than kitchens, so capacity needs to match your actual footprint. Measure the spot where you plan to place the can before you buy. A 13-gallon can needs roughly 11×15 inches of floor space plus clearance for the lid swing. A 2-gallon slim can needs only 5×10 inches.
For small laundry closets under 18 inches wide, the ELPHECO 2-gallon models are the best fit. For mid-size rooms, the Cesun 5-gallon or Ninestars 13-gallon rectangular work well. For larger utility rooms, the EKO Mirage-T 50L gives you 25% more capacity than standard 13-gallon cans without taking up more floor space.
Sensor Reliability in Humid Environments
Infrared sensors work by detecting heat signatures and motion. Humidity can scatter the infrared beam, which leads to missed detections or false triggers. Cheaper sensors are more affected by this. In our testing, the Ninestars and EKO sensors performed best in humid conditions, while the ELPHECO and funest models had fewer false triggers in narrow spaces.
If your laundry room has a ventless dryer or runs above 60% humidity regularly, prioritize cans with proven sensor reliability. The 2-year warranty on Ninestars models is a good safety net if the sensor does fail. The funest SOC smart chip actively reduces false triggers, which is helpful in tight laundry closet layouts.
Battery vs Rechargeable
Disposable batteries are still the most common option. AA, C, and D batteries all work, and most cans last 6-9 months on a set. The tradeoff is that you’ll need to remember to replace them. For a laundry room that’s used daily but not as frequently as a kitchen, this works fine.
Rechargeable options like the funest use Type-C charging and last weeks between charges. They’re more eco-friendly and remove the hassle of buying replacement batteries. If you already charge your phone and other devices in the laundry area, plugging in a trash can once a month is a small ask.
AC adapter compatibility is rare in this category, but some models support it. If you want to skip batteries entirely, check the manufacturer’s specs before buying. Most motion sensor cans in this roundup are battery-only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which touchless garbage can is best rated?
The highest-rated touchless trash can in this roundup is the funest 3.5 Gallon Rechargeable at 4.6 stars, with the Ninestars 13 Gallon models close behind at 4.4 stars. Both offer reliable sensors, odor-sealing lids, and proven durability for laundry room use.
Are touchless garbage cans worth it?
Yes, touchless trash cans are worth it for laundry rooms because they keep wet hands and lint-covered fingers away from the lid. They reduce germ transfer, help contain odors from damp fabrics, and make it easier to toss small items when you’re holding a basket of laundry.
What are the common problems with automatic trash cans?
The most common problems with automatic trash cans are sensor misfires in humid environments, battery drain from frequent activation, and lid mechanisms wearing out after 1-2 years. Choosing a can with a sealed lid, IPX5 waterproof rating, and at least a 1-year warranty helps avoid these issues.
What size trash can do I need for a laundry room?
A 2-5 gallon trash can works for small laundry closets, a 5-10 gallon model fits mid-size rooms, and a 13-gallon can is best for larger utility spaces. Measure your floor space first; a slim 2-gallon can needs only 5×10 inches while a 13-gallon can needs 11×15 inches plus lid clearance.
Do touchless trash cans work in humid laundry rooms?
Touchless trash cans work in humid laundry rooms if they have an IPX5 waterproof rating or better. Models like the ELPHECO, Cesun, and funest are specifically designed to handle moisture. Avoid basic infrared models without waterproofing, as humidity can cause false triggers or sensor failure.
Final Verdict
After 6 weeks of testing 8 motion-sensor trash cans in real laundry rooms, the BestOffice 13 Gallon Stainless Steel remains my top pick for most households. It pairs reliable sensor performance with proven odor control, fits standard 13-gallon bags, and has over 21k+ reviews backing its durability. For smaller spaces, the ELPHECO 2-gallon models deliver IPX5 waterproofing in a slim package, and the funest 3.5-gallon is the best choice if you want rechargeable convenience. Whichever you pick, the right touchless trash can for your laundry room is the one that matches your humidity level, floor space, and weekly load count.
For more options, check out our guide to the best lockable outdoor cabinets for trash can concealment if you need a covered setup for patio or garage waste bins. Investing in the right touchless trash can for your laundry room in 2026 means fewer lint-covered lids, less odor transfer, and one less thing to touch when your hands are full of wet towels.