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The Best Aesthetic Trash Cans (That Are Actually Cute)

Trash cans aren’t the most exciting purchase, but we all use them every single day. Everyone needs somewhere to put crumpled-up paper towels and food scraps, so love them or hate them, they’re an essential item for both the kitchen & bathroom. If you’re someone who thinks about small details like I do, chances are you’re going to look for a trash can that’s aesthetically pleasing. Even the most basic items (like trash cans) can serve as finishing touches when it comes to design. Here are my top picks for cute trash cans that you’ll love.

The Best Aesthetic Trash Cans

A well-designed trash can does more than hide garbage. It looks good in whatever space its in. From the best kitchen trash bins to smaller garbage bins for your bathroom and other small spaces, this post features everything from marble to plastic trash cans at a range of price points for every room in your home. I focused on design quality—scallops, marble, block print, and more. Here are my top picks for the best trash cans that will add to your space.

What to Look for in Aesthetic Trash Cans

A trash can should blend into your space, but design shouldn’t take away from function. Think about what you’re throwing away. If you are looking for a trash can for your kids’ art table and they’re always throwing away pencil shavings, you won’t want a cane trash can.

Here are a few things to consider before buying a trash can:

Material: Stainless-steel trash cans are durable, but the stainless-steel finish often shows fingerprints. Marble, ceramic, or decorative plastic are ideal for a bathroom.

Size: Kitchen trash cans need enough capacity for daily use, and dual compartment trash cans are ideal for trash and recycling. Smaller trash cans work well almost everywhere else.

Lid style: If you have a dog or baby that gets into your bathroom trash, you might want a foot pedal or step lid. Think about the way you use your home, and what your needs are.

Bag compatibility: Some trash cans require custom liners, while others work with a standard garbage bag. Standard bags are typically less expensive than custom ones, so that’s something to consider.

Placement: Will the trash can will be visible or tucked away? If it’s going in a cabinet, a simple plastic bin will do. If it’s out in the open, design matters even more.

Stainless-Steel Kitchen Trash Cans

In a small kitchen, every inch matters, and a bulky trash can can quickly overwhelm the space. A slim, well-designed trash can helps keep the room feeling open while still handling daily use. Newer kitchens often have a built-in spot for kitchen trash cans. But if you’re like me and have an older kitchen, there’s a good chance that you don’t have a space for a trash can.

We ended up purchasing a Simplehuman stainless-steel step trash bin with a top lid. They’re pricey but a good investment. They make the most high-quality trash bins, each featuring a soft close lid (so no loud bang), and their own line of trash bags. Their custom bags are more expensive than most, which might be a dealbreaker for some. I try to stock up during sales, and really appreciate how snug they fit. They also make single and dual compartment trash bins, and each compartment features a removable interior bin for trash. I don’t know that I’d call these bins beautiful, but they are sleek and nicer looking than most.