Create a free profile to get unlimited access to exclusive videos, sweepstakes, and more!
14 Ways to Make Doing the Garbage Less Painful (& Stinky!)
Because it's gross and high-time we do something about that.
No one really enjoys dealing with trash, unless you live in a garbage can and your name is Oscar. But rubbish doesn’t have to have such a bad rap. Our collective goal should be to make the whole task as convenient and non-stinky as possible.
The good news is that there are more options out there than I ever realized. As a mom to two kids, I have been battling snack wrappers and apple cores in my car for years—TrashStash Car Litter Bag, where have you been all my life?!
So we’re here to rid garbage of its smelly stigma with 14 of the best trash cans and accessories that will make your routine more efficient…and hopefully less gross. From odor eliminators to paper shredders to the best can for your kitchen we’ve got your covered. Without further ado, here are the best trash busters for...
The Kitchen
Simplehuman Rectangular Step Can
The kitchen trash can undoubtedly gets the most use in any house, and you want invest in one that will last. Simplehuman’s trash cans are at the top of our list. The rectangular step version comes with a liner pocket which you can access from the inside the can to ensure easy replacement bags, a sturdy wide steel pedal that will stand the test of time and patented lid shox technology eliminating the constant banging of the lid. Did I mention the 10 year warranty? The 45-litre is large enough to hold an ample amount of trash, but small enough that it doesn’t take up half the kitchen.
Glad ForceFlex Tall Kitchen Drawstring Trash Bags
There’s nothing worse than a chock full trash bag…that rips. Tested time and time again, these Glad bags always perform. They have all the assets you need in a reliable kitchen bag - three-layer drawstring, 13 gallon capacity, and a unique diamond pattern at the top of the bag stretches to prevent rips and leaks.
Simplehuman Odorsorb Filter Kit
All you need is some rotting produce or leftover fish and it’s a stinky situation for your trash can. Fight the smell before it sets in with these charcoal filter kits that attach under the lid of your trash can thanks to the included double-sided tape. The charcoal inserts can be recharge by exposing them to sunlight for 3 hours every four to six weeks.
The Office
Threshold Square Trash Can, White Wood
Office trash usually consists of more dry products (and less food, thankfully), so you have the option to go more pretty than practical. You can ditch the lid since you aren’t captaining odors and pick out a trash bin that works with your decor. This rustic chic bin is lightweight, comes in white, dark wood or black and also matches with products in Threshold’s office line for a quick (and affordable!) office makeover.
AmazonBasics 6-Sheet Cross-Cut Paper and Credit Card Shredder
Here’s what we know: Credit card bills or any document with personal information (like mortgage statements and insurance forms) should be destroyed before being placed into the trash. By doing so you are taking an extra (and important!) step to preventing stolen identity. This cross-shreds six pieces of paper or one credit card at a time and you don’t even have to remove staples or small paper clips. All of the waste gets neatly collected in the attached bin.
The Bathroom
Powder-Coated Trash Can
With a step pedal for easy opening, this white iron can is large enough to hold the necessary items but small enough to be convenient, making it the perfect complement to any bathroom. With a lid to hide the mess, you have the option to use a small liner or it cleans up nicely with an easy wipe with a damp cloth.
The Nursery
Playtex Diaper Genie Complete Diaper Pail with Odor Lock Technology
How can they be so cute, yet create something so smelly? The Playtex Diaper Genie makes the disposal of those dirty diapers look easy with a seven-layer refill bag, built in carbon filters and an airtight clamp that contains the odor so your nursery stays smelling fresh. The front tilt design also makes emptying a breeze.
BUY FROM: Amazon, SALE $34.12 (Regularly $39.99, 15% Off!)
Munchkin Arm and Hammer Diaper Bag Dispenser
When you are on the go or not close to your beloved Diaper Genie, the Arm and Hammer dispenser and bags are your best sidekick. With a convent clip to easily attach to your bag or stroller, this dispenser holds small plastic bags that are infused with baking soda and have a lavender scent to eliminate odor. They come in three options of blue, pink or green so you can choose whatever color floats your baby’s boat.
The Car
TrashStash Car Litter Bag
With life on the go, snacks, desserts and yes, sometimes even entire meals in the car are inevitable. As I mentioned, my car has seen its fair share of wrappers, food, water bottles, you name it. Having tried a plain ol’ plastic shopping bag as a car “can” in the past, I always found it would just end under a seat never to be seen again. Which is why TrashStash is a game changer. Made of durable nylon, this three gallon bag can hang on the back of a seat or stand alone and is leak proof to contain any spills that occur along the way. Your car will thank you.
BUY FROM: The Container Store, $14.99
The Garage
Green Wheeled Trash Can
When it comes to the garage (the place where all the trash from the house, car, or dog ends up) you need to pull out the big dog. The Green Wheeled trash can is tough as nails and built to last with a 20-year service life and 10-year warranty. It has two wheels for easy mobility to the curb and is constructed with a molded-in axle that is compatible with automated or semi-automated collection waste trucks. This beast comes in multiple sizes—32-, 48-, 64- and 96-gallons—to fit nicely into any size garage.
Victor M380 Fly Magnet Reusable Trap with Bait
Banish those darn summer flies with this non-poisonous yet effective fly trap. Although it attracts a number of pesky species with its white diamond lid, it is safe around kids and pets. They are also reusable with just a quick empty and rebait lasting you all summer long.
Simplehuman Rectangular Step Can Dual Compartment
If you haven’t already, it’s time to go green people. This dual compartment can will help make recycling your trash easy without taking up a ton of room. The sleek design includes the liner pocket for easy bag storage, a handled bucket for seamless removal of your recyclables and the all-important shock lid technology. Place in your kitchen, pantry or garage and you will be on Mother Earth’s good side.
The Dog
Pet Genie Pet Waste Disposal Pail
We love our four-legged furry friends, however we do not love dealing with their waste. The Pet Genie is a must-have for any pet owner in that it’s built to hold waste bags, puppy training pads and pet diapers. The combination of the push-n-lock clamp and seven-layer bags works well to contain odors without tearing open.
BUY FROM: Bed Bath & Beyond, $19.99
Earth Rated Poop Bags Dog Waste Bags
Put bluntly, when it comes to poop bags, Earth Rated’s are top of the list. With a lavender scent to help mask the stink, these leak proof bags make the dirty job easier with their 9- by 13-inch size. They also fit into most standard-sized leash dispenser so you don’t ever have to be worried about getting stranded again in the park with nary a bag again!
