For years, my kitchen routine involved a frustrating dance with a traditional step-on trash can. It was a battle of wills. I’d approach with hands full of messy peelings, only to have the foot pedal stick, slip, or send the entire can skittering across the floor. Or worse, the lid would slam shut with a resounding clang before I could deposit the trash, leaving drips on the lid and floor. It was a minor daily annoyance, but one that symbolized a breakdown in kitchen efficiency and cleanliness. A grimy lid is a hub for germs, and a poorly sealed can is an open invitation for unpleasant odors to permeate the heart of the home. I knew there had to be a more hygienic, elegant, and modern solution to what is, admittedly, a mundane task. That search led me to the world of automatic trash cans, and specifically, to this in-depth evaluation of a very popular model.
- 【Hassle Free Two-Year 】Hassle free process with our dedicated customer service line and at no additional charges for your defective...
- 【High Quality Materials】Water-resistant infrared motion sensor prevents moisture or any accidental spills from damaging the unit....
What to Consider Before Buying an Automatic Kitchen Trash Can
A kitchen trash can is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for maintaining a clean, hygienic, and odor-free home environment. Moving beyond simple waste containment, an automatic model like the Ninestars 13 Gal Motion Sensor Trash Can introduces a layer of convenience and sanitation that traditional cans simply can’t match. The primary benefit is its touchless operation, which drastically reduces the cross-contamination of germs from raw food scraps to your hands and surfaces. It seals in odors more effectively than an open-top can and eliminates the physical awkwardness of operating a foot pedal with full hands. It’s a small but significant upgrade that streamlines daily kitchen tasks.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who values convenience and hygiene above all else. This includes busy families juggling kids and cooking, home chefs who frequently handle raw ingredients, or anyone with mobility issues who finds foot pedals cumbersome. It’s also perfect for those who appreciate a sleek, modern aesthetic in their kitchen appliances. However, it might not be the best fit for those in very small, high-traffic galley kitchens where frequent pass-bys could trigger the sensor unnecessarily. Likewise, individuals on a strict budget or those who prefer a completely analog, no-fail mechanical solution might lean towards a high-quality manual step-can instead.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Measure your intended space carefully. You need to account for the can’s footprint (15.24″ L x 11.22″ W) and its vertical clearance. At 25.04″ tall, you must also consider the height when the lid is fully open, ensuring it won’t hit overhanging countertops. One of the standout design features we noted, and confirmed by users, is that its hinge mechanism is not at the very back, allowing it to sit flush against a wall or cabinet without scuffing the surface during opening.
- Capacity/Performance: A 13-gallon (50-liter) capacity is the standard for most American kitchens, accommodating standard-sized trash bags perfectly. The key performance metric for an automatic can is its sensor. Look for a sensor that is responsive when you need it, but not so sensitive that it opens every time you walk past. Advanced features like delay sensing technology, which this Ninestars model includes, are designed to mitigate false openings and conserve battery life.
- Materials & Durability: The combination of a stainless steel base and a plastic lid is common in this category. The stainless steel should be fingerprint-resistant for easy maintenance, which we found to be effective on this model. The plastic lid houses the electronics, making it lightweight. While some users find the plastic less premium than the metal base, it’s a practical choice for the mechanism it contains. Longevity often comes down to the quality of the motor and sensor.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Beyond the touchless operation, consider the power source. This model uses two D-cell batteries, and as our testing and extensive user feedback show, the battery life is exceptionally long, often lasting many months or even over a year. Maintenance involves simple wipe-downs and, crucially, an easy bag-changing process. A feature like a removable ring liner, which hides the bag and prevents it from slipping, is a massive usability win.
While the Ninestars 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...
First Impressions: Sleek, Simple, and Surprisingly Smart
Unboxing the Ninestars 13 Gal Motion Sensor Trash Can was a straightforward affair. The unit arrived well-packaged, consisting of three main parts: the stainless steel base, the plastic ring liner, and the lid which contains the entire electronic mechanism. The base itself feels surprisingly lightweight at just under 7 pounds, making it easy to position, yet the brushed stainless steel finish gives it a premium look that immediately elevates it above a standard plastic can. The black trim and lid offer a nice contrast, fitting in well with other common kitchen appliances.
Assembly is virtually nonexistent. You simply insert two D-cell batteries (alkaline recommended, not included) into the compartment on the underside of the lid, place a standard 13-gallon trash bag in the base, fold the edges over the rim, and secure it with the included ring liner. This ring is a simple but brilliant piece of design, ensuring the bag stays put and remains completely hidden from view. Placing the lid on top completes the setup. From box to fully operational took us, as one user accurately noted, “less than a couple of minutes.” The first wave of a hand over the sensor and the silent, swift opening of the lid is genuinely delightful—a small piece of everyday magic.
What We Like
- Truly touchless operation enhances kitchen hygiene
- Excellent odor control with a tight-sealing lid
- Exceptional battery life from just two D-cell batteries
- Clever ring liner hides bag and prevents slippage
- Smart hinge design allows for flush placement against walls
- Quiet opening and closing mechanism
Drawbacks
- Plastic lid feels less durable than the stainless steel base
- Sensor can occasionally be triggered by passersby in tight spaces
- Some reports of units arriving with cosmetic dents
A Deep Dive into the Ninestars 13 Gal Motion Sensor Trash Can’s Performance
A trash can’s true worth is revealed not on day one, but over weeks and months of daily use. It’s in the frantic meal prep, the big cleanup after a party, and the quiet moments when you just need something to work without a second thought. We put the Ninestars 13 Gal Motion Sensor Trash Can through its paces in a busy home kitchen environment to see if its performance lived up to its promise.
The Heart of the Matter: Motion Sensor Performance and Reliability
The entire premise of this product rests on its infrared motion sensor, and we found it to be impressively reliable. The sensor has a well-calibrated range, activating when you hold your hand or debris a few inches above and in front of it. The lid opens quickly and, for the most part, silently. What truly sets this model apart, especially from older versions that some users mentioned upgrading from, is its “delay sensing” logic. If you keep your hand within the sensor’s range—for instance, while scraping multiple items off a cutting board—the lid remains open. Once you move away, it closes softly after a few seconds. This is a crucial feature that prevents the lid from annoyingly closing on your hand mid-task. The can also features manual open/close buttons for tasks that require the lid to stay open for an extended period, like changing the bag or peeling a large batch of potatoes directly into the can.
Now, is it perfect? Not entirely. In a very narrow or high-traffic kitchen, we did experience occasional false triggers when walking very close to the can. One user humorously noted it “has a mind of its own some days,” which can be amusing when guests are over. However, we found its placement is key. By orienting the can so the sensor faces away from the main walking path, these instances were reduced to nearly zero. Compared to other motion-sensor products we’ve tested, the Ninestars strikes a very good balance between responsiveness and preventing nuisance openings. Many users echo this sentiment, with one stating, “when I walk right past it to go up the stairs it doesn’t open which is nice,” confirming the effectiveness of its sensor logic. You can see its full feature set and user reviews to gauge this performance for yourself.
Design, Durability, and Day-to-Day Livability
Beyond the tech, the physical design contributes significantly to its success. The rectangular shape is far more space-efficient than a round can, allowing it to tuck neatly into a corner or at the end of a cabinet run. The brushed stainless steel base proved genuinely resistant to fingerprints and smudges, a must-have feature for a hands-on kitchen appliance. Wiping it clean is effortless. But the two most lauded design elements we discovered were the hinge and the bag ring.
As one particularly insightful user pointed out, the hinge is not located at the absolute rear of the lid. This subtle design choice is a stroke of genius. It means when the lid opens, it doesn’t extend backward past the body of the can, allowing you to place the unit flush against your cabinets without fear of scratching or marking the paint over time—a problem that plagues many foot-pedal models. The second hero is the plastic ring liner. It solves two major trash can annoyances in one go: it firmly secures the trash bag, preventing it from collapsing into the can even when heavy, and it completely conceals any unsightly bag overhang, resulting in a much cleaner, tidier look. While a single user mentioned not finding a use for it, the overwhelming consensus, including our own experience, is that this ring is a game-changing feature that makes bag changes cleaner and more secure.
The main point of contention regarding durability lies with the lid. It’s made of black plastic, which, while functional, doesn’t feel as robust as the steel base. A few user reports mentioned receiving cans with dents in the steel base from shipping, or scuffs on the plastic lid. While our test unit was pristine, it’s worth noting. Over the long term, some users have reported issues with the lid mechanism failing after a year or more, where it opens only partially or closes immediately. However, these reports are balanced by a much larger number of users—some on their second Ninestars can after 5 or even 10 years of service—who attest to the product’s incredible longevity. The included two-year warranty provides a solid safety net should you encounter any early mechanical issues.
Power, Odor Control, and Maintenance
One of the biggest hesitations people have about switching to an automatic can is battery life. Nobody wants another device that needs constant charging or battery swaps. This is where the Ninestars 13 Gal Motion Sensor Trash Can truly excels. Powered by just two D-cell batteries, the energy consumption is remarkably low. During our extensive testing period, we didn’t come close to needing a replacement. This aligns perfectly with user experiences, some of whom claim to have gone years on a single set of batteries on their older models, and many months on this current one. This efficiency is a massive advantage, making the can a “set it and forget it” appliance.
Effective odor control is non-negotiable for a kitchen trash can, and the tight seal on the Ninestars lid performs admirably. When closed, it traps odors inside, a feature frequently praised by owners. We noticed a significant reduction in ambient kitchen smells compared to our old step-can, whose lid never seemed to sit quite right. Maintenance is as simple as it gets. The stainless steel body wipes clean with a damp cloth, and the removable lid and ring liner make it easy to deep clean the interior when needed. Changing the bag is a breeze: lift the lid, pull off the ring, remove the full bag, and pop in a new one. The can is designed for standard 13-gallon kitchen bags, so there’s no need to buy expensive custom-fit liners, a practical and budget-friendly consideration that adds to its overall value.
What Other Users Are Saying
Across thousands of reviews, the sentiment for the Ninestars 13 Gal Motion Sensor Trash Can is overwhelmingly positive. Many users, particularly first-time owners of an automatic can, express a surprising level of enthusiasm. One owner captured this feeling perfectly, saying, “I never knew a garbage can could bring me so much joy 50x a day. It’s so simple yet makes such a difference.” The most consistent points of praise revolve around its convenience, effective odor control, and remarkable longevity, with multiple users reporting they are repeat buyers after their first Ninestars can lasted for over five or even ten years.
However, the feedback isn’t universally perfect. The most common critical point, though relatively rare, concerns the long-term reliability of the lid’s motor. A handful of users have experienced issues after about a year of use, where the lid stops opening fully or starts closing instantly. One disappointed user noted, “they only stay open for a few seconds before they close on you,” even after changing the batteries. The other minor complaint involves shipping, with some customers receiving units with small dents in the stainless steel body. While frustrating, this seems to be a logistical issue rather than a product defect, and the manufacturer’s two-year warranty is designed to cover functional defects.
How Does the Ninestars 13 Gal Motion Sensor Trash Can Compare to the Alternatives?
While the Ninestars is a fantastic all-arounder, the right choice for you depends on your specific needs, budget, and kitchen setup. Here’s how it stacks up against three distinct alternatives.
1. Rev-A-Shelf 35 Quart Black Replacement Bin (2 Pack)
- Replacement Waste Bins: Set of 2 replacement 35-quart trash bins are the perfect waste containers to include in kitchens, bathrooms,...
- Designed to Fit: Designed to be used in all Rev-A-Shelf pullout waste container accessories; Rev-A-Shelf waste container frame is sold...
This product serves a completely different purpose. The Rev-A-Shelf bins are not standalone trash cans; they are replacement containers designed for built-in, under-cabinet pull-out shelving systems. If your goal is to have your waste and recycling completely hidden from view and integrated into your cabinetry, this is the direction to go. It offers the ultimate sleek, minimalist aesthetic. However, this option requires having or installing the corresponding pull-out hardware, making it more of a kitchen renovation component than a simple appliance upgrade. This is for the user prioritizing seamless integration over the convenience of a freestanding, sensor-operated can.
2. BestOffice 13 Gallon Automatic Kitchen Trash Can
- AUTOMATIC & HYGIENIC – The touchless sensor lid opens and closes automatically, keeping your hands clean and ensuring a noiseless,...
- MODERN & DURABLE DESIGN – Made of premium stainless steel with a fingerprint-resistant finish. The sleek oval body and sloping lid...
The BestOffice model is a direct competitor to the Ninestars, offering the same 13-gallon capacity and touch-free motion sensor operation. With a similar stainless steel body, it targets the exact same customer. Choosing between the two often comes down to brand reputation, specific sale pricing, and subtle design preferences. The BestOffice can promises the same hygienic and convenient experience. If you are committed to an automatic can but want to compare every available option, the BestOffice is worth a look. However, Ninestars has a longer and more established track record in the market, with a large base of users attesting to its long-term durability, which might give it the edge for some buyers.
3. SONGMICS 13 Gallon Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can Soft Close
- [Fits Most Spaces] This 13-gallon trash can offers proper volume for most homes while the sleek modern design fits well in various...
- [Stainless Steel] The recycle bin made of stainless steel resists rust; a simple wipe can keep it clean and smudge-free
The SONGMICS can represents the best of the traditional, non-electric world. It’s a high-quality manual trash can that operates with a foot pedal. Its key advantages are its soft-close lid, which prevents slamming, and a removable inner bucket that makes cleaning and bag changes incredibly simple. This is the ideal choice for someone who is wary of relying on batteries and sensors and prefers a purely mechanical, robust solution. While you sacrifice the hands-free convenience, you gain the peace of mind that comes with a simpler mechanism. It’s a fantastic option for those who value durability and ease of cleaning over high-tech features.
The Final Verdict: Is the Ninestars 13 Gal Motion Sensor Trash Can Worth It?
After extensive testing and analysis, our conclusion is a resounding yes. The Ninestars 13 Gal Motion Sensor Trash Can is a superb product that delivers on its promise of a more hygienic, convenient, and pleasant way to manage kitchen waste. It successfully marries smart technology with practical design. The reliable sensor, exceptional battery life, and clever features like the bag-securing ring and wall-safe hinge make it a standout in its category. While the plastic lid may not feel as premium as the steel base, its performance and the overall unit’s proven longevity make this a minor trade-off for the price.
We recommend it wholeheartedly for families, home cooks, and anyone looking to reduce contact with germs and add a touch of modern efficiency to their kitchen. It’s a simple upgrade that removes a small but persistent daily frustration, which is the hallmark of a truly great home product. If you’re ready to stop the clumsy dance with your old trash can and embrace the effortless convenience of a touchless future, we are confident you will be delighted. You can check the latest price and discover why it’s a top choice for so many homes today.
Last update on 2025-10-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API