We’ve all been there. You’re in the middle of preparing a meal, hands covered in flour, egg, or remnants of raw chicken, and you need to throw something away. You’re faced with a classic kitchen dilemma: either you wash your hands just to touch the trash can lid, or you perform a clumsy, one-footed ballet to operate the step pedal, often resulting in a missed shot or a lid that snaps shut too quickly. It’s a small but constant frustration in the heart of the home. For our household, this dance became particularly tiresome, especially with kids who seemed to treat the trash can as a Jackson Pollock canvas. The desire for a more hygienic, seamless, and frankly, more modern solution led us to explore the world of automatic trash cans, a quest that ultimately brought the Ninestars DZT-50-9 13 Gal Motion Sensor Trash Can into our kitchen.
- 【Hassle Free Two-Year Warranty】Hassle free warranty process with our dedicated customer service line and at no additional charges...
- 【High Quality Materials】Water-resistant infrared motion sensor prevents moisture or any accidental spills from damaging the unit....
Key Considerations Before Buying a Motion Sensor Trash Can
A motion sensor trash can is more than just a receptacle for waste; it’s a key solution for enhancing kitchen hygiene and convenience. By eliminating the need to physically touch the bin, it drastically reduces the cross-contamination of germs, a crucial benefit in any food preparation area. It streamlines workflow, allowing you to dispose of items quickly and cleanly without breaking your stride. The sleek, modern aesthetic of models like the Ninestars DZT-50-9 13 Gal Motion Sensor Trash Can also elevates the look of a kitchen, replacing a mundane utility item with a piece of smart technology. The primary benefits are sanitation, ease of use, and odor control, as the lid remains securely sealed when not in use.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who prioritizes cleanliness and efficiency. This includes busy families, avid home cooks, or anyone who is hygiene-conscious. It’s particularly beneficial in households with young children who might struggle with step pedals or for individuals with mobility challenges. However, it might not be suitable for those with extremely limited kitchen space where accidental triggers could be a constant annoyance. People living in very small apartments or those who prefer simple, non-electronic solutions might opt for a traditional step can or a simple open-top bin instead. For them, the battery requirement and potential for electronic malfunction might outweigh the convenience.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Measure your intended space carefully. The Ninestars DZT-50-9 13 Gal Motion Sensor Trash Can has an oval footprint of 16.2″L x 11.4″W and stands 28.4″ high. You’ll need to account not just for the base, but also for clearance above for the lid to open and enough room around it to avoid constantly triggering the sensor as you walk by.
- Capacity/Performance: A 13-gallon capacity is the standard for most kitchens, comfortably fitting common tall kitchen trash bags. Consider your household size and how frequently you generate trash. The performance of the sensor is paramount; look for a good balance between responsiveness and a sensing range that prevents accidental openings. The battery life is also a key performance metric to consider for long-term cost and maintenance.
- Materials & Durability: Stainless steel is the preferred material for kitchen trash cans due to its durability and ease of cleaning. A fingerprint-resistant finish, like the one on this Ninestars model, is a huge plus for maintaining a clean look. Pay attention to the lid material as well; most are plastic, so look for sturdy construction that can withstand repetitive motion.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Beyond the touchless operation, consider how easy it is to change the bag. Features like a removable ring liner, which hides the bag and secures it in place, are invaluable. Wiping down the stainless steel body and the plastic lid should be simple, but remember that the electronic lid should never be submerged in water. Accessing the battery compartment should also be straightforward.
While the Ninestars DZT-50-9 13 Gal Motion Sensor Trash Can is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- AUTOMATIC & HYGIENIC – The touchless sensor lid opens and closes automatically, keeping your hands clean and ensuring a noiseless,...
- CONVENIENT SIZE: 50 liter / 13.2 gallon trash can for home or office
- WASTE BIN WITH 20 GALLON CAPACITY – This 20 gallon trash can is perfect for any household and features a classic rectangular shape in...
Unboxing the Ninestars DZT-50-9: Sleek Design and Simple Setup
Our initial impression upon unboxing the Ninestars DZT-50-9 13 Gal Motion Sensor Trash Can was one of modern simplicity. The unit arrived well-packaged, though we were mindful of user reports mentioning that some units can arrive with minor dents, suggesting the steel, while durable, isn’t indestructible. Thankfully, ours was pristine. The stainless steel base has a pleasant, brushed finish that immediately felt at home alongside our other kitchen appliances. At just over 8 pounds, it’s lightweight enough to move for cleaning but substantial enough to feel stable. The oval shape is a smart design choice, allowing it to sit flush against a wall or at the end of a cabinet run without protruding awkwardly into walkways.
Setup was incredibly simple. The lid, which houses all the electronics, lifts off completely. Underneath, we found the battery compartment, which requires three ‘C’ batteries (not included). The compartment door felt secure. Also included is the black plastic ring liner, a simple but brilliant component. There are no complex instructions; you simply pop in the batteries, place the liner ring on the rim, fold your trash bag over it, and place the lid back on top. From box to fully operational took less than two minutes. The initial test wave of a hand over the sensor was met with a quiet whir and a smoothly opening lid, confirming everything was ready to go.
What We Like
- Completely hands-free operation enhances kitchen hygiene
- Large 13-gallon capacity is perfect for families
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel is easy to keep clean
- Bag liner ring effectively hides the bag and prevents it from slipping
- Excellent battery life can last up to a year
What We Didn’t Like
- Longevity of the lid motor is a concern based on user feedback
- The sensor can be overly sensitive, opening when simply walking past
A Deep Dive into the Ninestars DZT-50-9’s Real-World Performance
A trash can is used dozens of times a day, and its performance can genuinely impact the flow and feel of a kitchen. We put the Ninestars DZT-50-9 13 Gal Motion Sensor Trash Can through weeks of rigorous daily use, evaluating everything from its core sensor technology to its long-term durability and design. We wanted to see if the promise of touchless convenience held up under the pressure of a busy family kitchen.
The Heart of the Can: Motion Sensor Performance and Reliability
The entire value proposition of this trash can rests on its infrared motion sensor, and we found it to be both impressive and, at times, a little too eager. The manufacturer states the sensor activates within ten inches and a 130° angle, and our testing confirmed this. It’s highly responsive; a quick wave of the hand or even the edge of a plate is enough to trigger the lid. The soft-close mechanism works as advertised, with the lid staying open for about three seconds after your hand moves away before gently closing. This window is generally sufficient for quick disposals. For longer tasks, like peeling vegetables, the manual “Open” button is a lifesaver, keeping the lid up indefinitely until you press “Close”.
However, this responsiveness comes with a caveat that many users have noted: sensitivity. We placed the can at the end of our kitchen island, a high-traffic area. In the first few days, we found the lid opening frequently as we simply walked by. As one user aptly put it, the sensor is “VERY sensitive!” This led to a slight adjustment period where we learned to give it a slightly wider berth. In a smaller kitchen or a tight space, this could become a genuine annoyance. Conversely, a small minority of users have reported the opposite issue, needing to be just inches away for it to trigger. In our experience, the performance was consistent, but its “hair-trigger” nature is something potential buyers must consider based on their kitchen layout. Despite this, the sheer convenience of scraping a cutting board directly into the bin without touching anything is a feature we quickly came to cherish, and its touchless operation is a major selling point.
Design, Materials, and Day-to-Day Livability
The design of the Ninestars DZT-50-9 13 Gal Motion Sensor Trash Can strikes an excellent balance between form and function. The stainless steel body lives up to its “fingerprint-proof” claim remarkably well. While not immune to smudges, it resists them far better than standard stainless steel and cleans up effortlessly with a quick wipe. The oval shape is not just for aesthetics; it’s a practical choice that offers a large opening while maintaining a slimmer profile than a round can of the same capacity.
The standout feature for us in daily use was, without a doubt, the plastic ring liner. This simple component is a design triumph. It completely solves two of the most common trash can annoyances: the bag falling into the can and the ugly bag overhang. By tucking the edges of a standard 13-gallon bag around this ring, you get a secure fit and a perfectly clean, seamless look on the outside. This feature was universally praised in user feedback, with one person noting, “love the bag holder part. No bag shows on the outside. Huge plus.” The 13.2-gallon capacity is also generous, allowing us to fill bags to their full potential and reducing the frequency of taking out the trash compared to our old, smaller can. While some users reported receiving units with dents, our can has held up well to the occasional bump, though the metal does feel a bit lighter than some premium-priced competitors.
Power, Longevity, and the Long-Term Question Mark
Powered by three ‘C’ batteries, Ninestars claims the can can operate for up to a year under normal usage. While we haven’t had it that long, the initial battery set is still going strong after several months, lending credibility to its power-efficient design. The battery compartment is located on the underside of the lid, which keeps it away from the main waste area. However, some users have expressed concern that this location could be exposed to moisture or grime over time, and a few have noted that diligent cleaning is required to prevent issues.
This brings us to the most significant point of division we found in both our research and user feedback: long-term durability. For every user who, like one we saw, has used multiple units for years without issue, there is another who experienced a critical failure of the lid mechanism. Reports of the lid starting to make grinding noises, opening and closing on its own in a “spooky” manner, or simply ceasing to function after 6 months to 2 years are common enough to be a serious consideration. It appears the longevity of the motor is a lottery. While the product comes with a warranty, some users have reported difficulties in contacting customer service for a resolution. This is the ultimate trade-off with the Ninestars DZT-50-9 13 Gal Motion Sensor Trash Can: you get incredible convenience and a sleek design at an accessible price point, but you may be sacrificing the built-to-last reliability of a simpler, mechanical trash can. For many, including us so far, the daily benefits make it a risk worth taking, and you can check the latest price and availability online.
What Other Users Are Saying
After compiling dozens of user experiences, a clear and consistent picture of the Ninestars DZT-50-9 13 Gal Motion Sensor Trash Can emerges. The sentiment is largely positive, focusing on the “wow” factor and practical benefits of a touchless system. One user summed up this feeling perfectly: “I love this automatic trash can… It’s very sleek looking and a nice big size. It holds tall kitchen trash bags and fills them nicely to capacity… I should’ve gotten it sooner.” Many echo this, praising the hygiene, the convenience with full hands, and the effectiveness of the bag retaining ring.
However, the negative feedback is just as consistent and centers almost exclusively on the durability of the lid’s electronic mechanism. One frustrated owner reported, “Worked well for 2 years. Then lid stopped opening.” This is a common narrative, with failures often occurring after the warranty period. Another user who had the lid fail after just 6 months expressed disappointment, stating, “Now… we have to push buttons to open and close it. Not what I paid for.” This paints a picture of a product that is brilliant when it works, but whose lifespan can be unpredictably short. It is a gamble, but one that many people are happy to take for the convenience it offers.
How the Ninestars DZT-50-9 Stacks Up Against the Competition
While the Ninestars DZT-50-9 13 Gal Motion Sensor Trash Can is a strong contender in the touchless market, it’s important to see how it compares to other options that might suit different needs or preferences.
1. TIPGO Slim 10L Bathroom Trash Can with Lid
- Small Enough to Fit: The compact design of this trash can make it ideal for small spaces. The slim feature makes it fit perfectly into...
- Handy and Easy to Use: Adopt effortless pop-up lid. Lightly press the top to open, toss trash, press the top to close/latch. You will...
This TIPGO model is not a direct competitor but serves as an excellent alternative for a different room in the house. With a small 2.6-gallon capacity and a slim plastic build, it’s designed for bathrooms, offices, or bedrooms. Its opening mechanism is a simple “pop-up” lid, which is manual but still keeps waste contained. Someone might prefer this for smaller spaces where a large, electronic can would be overkill. It’s a budget-friendly, straightforward solution for non-kitchen waste, whereas the Ninestars model is built specifically for the capacity and demands of a busy kitchen.
2. Home Zone Living 12 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can
- Slim Space-Saving Design: Narrow rectangular body fits tight corners or small kitchen areas without sacrificing capacity
- 12 Gallon Capacity for Daily Use: Ideal for handling regular household waste; large enough to reduce frequent trips to the bin
The Home Zone Living trash can is a direct and formidable alternative. It offers a similar 12-gallon capacity and a sleek stainless steel body. The key difference lies in the mechanism: it uses a traditional step pedal instead of a motion sensor. A user might prefer this model if they are wary of the potential for electronic failure associated with motion-sensor cans. A step pedal is a time-tested, highly reliable mechanism. While you lose the truly touchless convenience, you gain peace of mind in long-term durability. It’s the perfect choice for someone who wants the premium look of stainless steel without the batteries and electronics.
3. Vanpopubs 2 Pack 2.7 Gal Smart Trash Can
- ★★★ 𝗜𝗻 𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗼 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲...
- ★★★ 𝗔𝗳𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝗔 𝗯𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗱,...
This Vanpopubs offering combines the smart technology of the Ninestars with the smaller form factor of the TIPGO. Sold as a two-pack, these 2.7-gallon cans are motion-sensor operated, making them ideal for bringing touchless convenience to the bathroom or under a desk. They are a great choice for someone who loves the Ninestars concept but wants it in a compact size for other rooms. If you’re looking to outfit your entire home with touchless bins, this pack offers great value, but for the main kitchen receptacle, the much larger capacity of the Ninestars DZT-50-9 13 Gal Motion Sensor Trash Can remains the superior choice.
The Final Word: Is the Ninestars DZT-50-9 the Right Trash Can for You?
After extensive hands-on use and analysis, our verdict on the Ninestars DZT-50-9 13 Gal Motion Sensor Trash Can is a strong, albeit conditional, recommendation. Its core strengths are undeniable: the touchless operation is a legitimate game-changer for kitchen hygiene and convenience, the design is sleek and modern, and the bag liner ring is a brilliantly simple solution to a common frustration. For its price, it delivers a feature set that feels premium and genuinely makes daily kitchen tasks a little easier.
The significant condition, however, is the question of long-term durability. The recurring user reports of lid motor failure cannot be ignored and represent a tangible risk. We recommend this trash can to anyone who places a high value on touchless convenience and is willing to accept that the electronic components may not last as long as a traditional step can. If you’re ready to upgrade your kitchen with a dash of modern technology and say goodbye to messy lids, the Ninestars DZT-50-9 is an excellent and affordable entry into the world of automatic trash cans. If you feel the benefits outweigh the potential risks, you can find the best price and order yours here.
Last update on 2025-10-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API