iTouchless vs. Glad Trash Can: Which 13-Gallon Bin is Best? (2026)

The kitchen trash can is the most used "appliance" in your home, yet it’s usually the one we think about the least—until the lid breaks or it starts to smell like yesterday’s fish.

In a world of modern kitchen trends, hygiene is king. You don't want to touch a lid with dirty hands, and you definitely don't want your pets getting into the garbage.

Today, we are looking at two different philosophies of "Hands-Free." The iTouchless uses motion-sensor technology for a high-tech, zero-contact experience. The Glad uses a reinforced mechanical foot pedal for old-school reliability.

Which one deserves a spot in your kitchen?

The Cheat Sheet: Quick Comparison

Feature	iTouchless Sensor Can	Glad Step Trash Can
Best For...	Germ-Phobes & Tech Lovers	Practicality & Large Families
Opening Type	Infrared Motion Sensor	Heavy-Duty Foot Pedal
Odor Control	Activated Carbon Filter	Clorox Antimicrobial Protection
Special Feature	Pet-Proof Safety Lock	Built-in Bag Roll Holder
Power Source	4 D Batteries or AC Adapter	100% Mechanical
Price Est.	~$70 - $100	~$75 - $95

1. The High-Tech Original: iTouchless 13 Gallon Sensor Bin

iTouchless was the original inventor of the sensor trash can, and their 2026 model is their most refined yet.

• Why It Wins (The Hygiene Factor): There is zero physical contact. You simply wave your hand over the infrared sensor, and the lid glides open. It is the ultimate solution for preventing cross-contamination while cooking. It pairs perfectly with other smart home technology.
  

• Pet-Proof Lock: If you have a clever dog or cat that likes to "dumpster dive," the iTouchless includes a patented physical lock on the lid to keep them out.
  

• The Catch: It requires power. You’ll either need 4 D-sized batteries (which last about a year) or purchase an optional AC adapter.
  

• The Verdict: The best choice for tech-forward households and those who prioritize maximum sanitation.
  

• Check Price on Amazon: iTouchless 13 Gallon Sensor Trash Can

2. The Reliable Workhorse: Glad Stainless Steel Step Can

Glad (the famous bag brand) designed this trash can around the idea of "Convenience and Cleanliness." It is a mechanical tank built for high-traffic kitchens.

• Why It Wins (Clorox Protection): The lid and frame are treated with Clorox antimicrobial protection, which inhibits the growth of odor-causing bacteria for the life of the can.
  

• Ingenious Bag Storage: This is the "killer feature." There is a compartment on the back that holds a full roll of trash bags. When you take out the old bag, the next one is right there waiting for you. It’s a massive time-saver for busy households.
  

• The Catch: It is a "Step Can," meaning you still have to use your foot. While hands-free, it doesn't have the "wow" factor of a motion sensor.
  

• The Verdict: The best choice for large families who want a durable, mechanical bin that never needs batteries and makes bag changes effortless.
  

• Check Price on Amazon: Glad Stainless Steel Step Trash Can

Critical Decision Guide: Sensor vs. Foot Pedal

"Is a sensor trash can better than a step-on trash can?"

1. Sensor (iTouchless): Best for total hygiene. However, sensors can occasionally be triggered by a pet walking by or a person walking too close to the island.
   

2. Foot Pedal (Glad): Best for reliability. There are no electronics to fail, and no batteries to change. If you want a bin that will still work exactly the same 10 years from now, the mechanical pedal is the safer bet.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?

Buy the iTouchless Sensor Can If:

• You want the most hygienic, zero-touch experience possible.
  

• You have pets that need to be locked out of the trash.
  

• You already use other touchless fixtures, like a touchless kitchen faucet.
  

Buy the Glad Step Can If:

• You want a built-in bag dispenser for faster chores.
  

• You don't want to worry about changing batteries or plugging in your trash can.
  

• You prefer the "Step-on" reliability of a high-quality mechanical pedal.
  

If you are upgrading your kitchen utility, don't stop at the trash. Check out our guide to the Best Garbage Disposal Cleaners to keep your entire waste system smelling fresh.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Do I need special trash bags for the iTouchless or Glad bins? A: No, both the iTouchless and Glad 13-gallon bins are designed to work with standard tall kitchen trash bags. While both brands sell their own premium liners, any generic 13-gallon drawstring bag from the grocery store will fit securely without slipping.

Q: How do you stop a trash can from smelling? A: To stop odors, the iTouchless uses a replaceable activated carbon filter, while the Glad bin uses Clorox antimicrobial protection. For the best results, you should change the carbon filter in the iTouchless every 3 months and wipe down the interior of either bin with a disinfectant once a month to remove leaked liquids or food debris.

Q: Will a sensor trash can open every time I walk past it? A: The iTouchless sensor is designed with a "Top-Facing" infrared field to prevent accidental openings. The sensor only triggers when a hand is placed directly above the lid, not when someone walks horizontally past the front of the bin. This prevents the lid from opening and closing unnecessarily as you move around your small kitchen space.