Anyone who spends a lot of time in their car knows just how dirty they can get. From empty food wrappers to used tissues and receipts you swear you’ll throw away soon, our cars can get messy. That’s where a car trash can comes in handy.
These car accessories (along with car air fresheners) help you keep your car pristine. With them, you can sort all the junk into one convenient place. No more clutter under the passenger seat or in the trunk.
Now, you can put all the trash into your car’s trash bin. Then, once you get the time, you can easily dump it out and place it back in your vehicle. Handy, right?
“But who needs a car trash can?” we hear you asking. Well, a lot of people, actually! Do you drive kids to and from school often? Are you often on carpool duty in the neighborhood, taking children to their after-school activities? Will you go on a road trip in the near future? Are you on a tight daily schedule that leaves you eating lunch in the car? If you answered yes to any of these questions, we’re willing to bet you need one.
So, to help you find the very best car trash can for your car, we have put together this article. In it, you’ll find a list of the top 10 best car trash can products on the market right now. Then, if you scroll to the bottom of the page, you’ll find a buying guide we wrote just for you. It covers everything you should look out for, from size requirements to the different types of portable car trash cans.
Top 10 Best Car Trash Can Products of 2020
We searched and searched all across the internet to find the best products on the market right now.
If you don’t want to be bogged down by the 4,000 products available, we highly recommend sticking to one of these featured cans. They’re effective, stylish, and you’re bound to find one you love!
Lusso is a well-known car accessories brand. Their specialty is making the hours you spend in the car more enjoyable. Hence their leakproof portable garbage can!
The Lusso can is a hanging car trash bag. It can be installed to the back of a headrest, to the console, to the side of the door, or to the glove box. Because its strap is adjustable, you won’t have a problem installing this can to your car.
This garbage can has a vinyl lining on the inside that is easily removable. Thus, if you spill something inside the can, cleaning it will be easy-peasy.
Besides the main large-capacity compartment, there are three extra pockets. One of them is zipped, while the other two are side mesh pockets. This is great if you need more room to store your trash. Alternatively, they can also hold your phone and other devices while on a road trip!
This product has been designed to fit every kind of vehicle. From cars to trucks all the way to RVs, you won’t have a problem getting it to fit your vehicle.
Lastly, it is available in five colors. The black, tan, gray, brown, or black with red stitching models will all look great in your car. They might even match your car’s upholsteries!
Pros:
Adjustable strap allows for easy installation and universal fit
If you’re looking for a smaller trash bin for your car, this is the product for you. It’s collapsible, discreet, and incredibly practical.
This trash bin comes with an elastic strap. To install it, simply wrap the elastic around the door handle, the transmission, the headrest, or the glove compartment.
Measuring only 6.14 inches by 7.71 inches, you don’t need much room to install it. Moreover, it goes unnoticed and blends into your car’s interior design. When you’re not using it, you can collapse it and store it somewhere inside your car.
Another great feature of this portable trash can is that it is leak proof. The fabric used has been treated to be impermeable. Thus, even if you spill something in the trash bin, your car won’t get dirty.
For ease of cleanup, the lining can be removed. This makes it a very convenient trash bag choice.
Pros:
Small and portable car trash bag for everyday use
Leakproof and easy-to-clean interior lining
Can be installed in a variety of places in the car
The most expensive item on our list is the High Road bag, but it also one of the best-performing products available now. Not to mention that it has a gorgeous design.
There is a wrap-cord on the back of the bag used to secure the bin in place. You wrap it around the front-lift console and cinch the cord lock so it doesn’t slip out. Then, it’s all ready to use!
Despite it being a compact model, it still holds quite a lot of trash in it. It is 5.25 inches wide, 6 inches deep, and 10.5 inches deep. Thus, it can hold up to 1.5 gallons of garbage inside.
On top of all that, there are three additional pockets. They give you extra storage space for any odd-shaped containers you mean to throw out. Additionally, it can also serve as storage space for phones, devices, and charging cords.
The inside is made from waterproof vinyl. Thus, it’s easy to clean up and sanitize between uses.
What sets this bin apart from others is its lid. This way, you can keep the bin closed even when it’s full and, thus, keep bad odors contained.
Pros:
Large capacity bag that keeps up to 1.5 gallons of trash in
Sleek, efficient, and compact design that blends into the car’s aesthetics
Water- and leak-proof interior lining
Cons:
The cinch-cord may come loose if the bag is too full
Need a small and compact hanging car trash bag for a low price? We recommend getting the EPAuto bin. It gets the job done, fits a wide variety of vehicles, and is affordable.
Its adjustable straps and buckle make it a near-universal fit for most cars. You can hang it from the back of the headrest or from the door handle. You won’t need any fancy tools to put it in place. Simply buckle it up and that’s it.
The bag measures 10 inches by 8.75 inches by 5.75 inches. In addition to the space inside the trash bin, there are also three extra mesh pockets. You can use it to store extra trash or other knick-knacks.
There are built-in velcro straps along the top of the bag. This way, you can close the bag and hide the trash that’s inside from other people’s view.
The interior lining of the trash bag is waterproof, making the cleanup a piece of cake.
Pros:
Compact design still accommodates a fair amount of trash inside
Three mesh pockets for extra storage space
Leak-proof interior lining makes cleanup easy
Cons:
If the bag is very heavy, it may undo the straps’ stitches
During extra long road trips, trash is bound to pile up. Fortunately, the extra-large Luxury travel trash bin has you covered.
This item can hold up to 3.65 gallons of stuff in it. It is 10.5 inches wide, 7 inches deep, and 12.5 inches tall. So you can see it’s not a small container! It’s perfect for long days on the road—and for large families, too.
The design is not only sleek but also convenient and practical. The side and back walls are solid, meaning the bag doesn’t collapse when it’s full of trash. There is also a lid with velcro strips, which is great for covering up bad smells.
Installing it is also very simple. The two adjustable straps ensure it fits most vehicles. It’s perfect to hang on the back of one of the two front seats or on the door handle.
To save your car’s upholstery from getting dirty, the insides are leakproof. Not even water, soda, or coffee will leak through and ruin your car’s inside.
Pros:
Easy to install and to fit snugly around the headrest
Waterproof interior that protects your car’s upholsteries
Sleek and practical design that blends with the car’s design
Cons:
Doesn’t fit all cars and may be too big for some people’s taste
Another jumbo hanging car trash bag is the Drive Auto bin. Unlike other products, it comes with plastic bags to fit inside the bin. It will make cleaning it easier than ever.
The reinforced padded walls and corners prevent it from collapsing. Thus, even when you hang it, it will retain its shape and be easy to reach with just one hand.
Its unique selling point is that you’re supposed to place a plastic bag inside the bin before you use it. Most grocery bags will do just fine. The good thing about this is that it is spill- and leak-proof.
An unlikely trait of this product is that it has a thermal feature. This makes it perfect to store cold drinks and foods while on a road trip. Beat the heat with this makeshift two-in-one cooler and trash can.
The built-in magnetic lid is also an amazing feature. The magnets allow you to keep the lid open or closed, as needed. Besides keeping bad odors trapped in the bin, it also keeps foods and drinks cool for longer.
Lastly, its capacity is 3 gallons, making it a perfect pick for long road trips. Even if you’re not traveling anywhere, it’s a good car trash can to have if you have messy kids around.
Pros:
Large capacity makes it an obvious choice for large families on the road
Uses normal grocery bags to keep messes away from upholsteries
Fits most vehicles thanks to its adjustable straps
Cons:
Magnets on the open lid leave something to be desired
This is another of our favorite car trash can designs. It’s sleek, roomy, and fits perfectly in just about any car.
There are velcro strips along the bottom of the bag to keep it in place on the back of one of the front seats. The adjustable strap adds even more security when you attach it to the headrest. Alternatively, you can install it on the front console.
One of the things we love about this bag is its lid. It’s heavier than the rest of the bag, so it closes on its own. Plus, it keeps bad smells trapped inside the bag, so your trip doesn’t get ruined.
There is a zipper on the front of the bag, perfect for keeping track of receipts. The two mesh pockets on the side are great for storing even more trash or for holding water bottles while you drive.
The inside of this car trash is also a big plus. It’s made from waterproof vinyl, meaning even if you spill something inside it, your car’s interior won’t get ruined. When you’re ready to clean out the bag, simply remove the interior lining (it will come out easily) and wash it with water and soap to get rid of germs.
Lastly, this product is available in five different styles, ranging from rugged black canvas to green camouflage patterns.
Pros:
Holds two gallons of trash while maintaining a compact design
Available in five different patterns and styles
Convenient and easy-to-clean inside lining
Cons:
After some uses, the bin doesn’t maintain its shape
The first cup holder car trash can on our list is this one made by KDL. If you’d rather have a bin that doesn’t draw much attention to itself, then this is perfect for you.
The KDL garbage bin is about the same size as a thermos cup. That’s why it fits perfectly into a cup holder. Thus, it’s in an easy-to-reach position without being in the way of your driving.
Do keep in mind, though, that not all cup holder are the same. The dimensions of this car bin are 3.5 inches at the bottom by 5.9 inches tall.
If it doesn’t fit snuggly in your cup holder, you can always put it in the pocket located on the back of the driver’s or passenger’s seat. This way, those sitting at the back can also easily reach the bin.
Since the whole product is made of plastic, it couldn’t be any easier to clean. If it gets dirty, simply rinse it or stick it in the dishwasher.
Lastly, there is a lid that opens when you press it. This way, the trash isn’t just there for everyone to see it. Not to mention that it’s more hygienic.
Pros:
Can be installed in the cup holder or in the front seat pocket
This car trash can is a bit different from the ones we’ve mentioned so far. Instead of being attached to the headrest of the front seats, it’s left on the floor. Moreover, it looks more like a traditional rubbish bin, as it requires you to use plastic bags.
Looking at this product, you’d think you’re looking at a high-end women’s purse. It is 8.6 inches tall, 8.6 inches wide, and 5.7 inches deep. The side walls are padded and stiff, giving it that female-purse look.
There is an elastic strap to secure the trash can in place during your travels. It measures 9 inches, which makes installation easy and flexible. It’s been designed to be fitted around the transmission. However, since the strap is quite long, you could potentially hang it around the headrest of one of the two front seats.
The outside is made from oxford cloth. This durable material will ensure the car trash can lives a long life and isn’t damaged by everyday use. On top of that, it is also waterproof, meaning it won’t spill any fluids all over your car.
Besides being used as a trash bin, it can also be used to store other things while on the road. Think children’s toys, drinks, or other important documents. If you’re going on a picnic, it would be a good idea to stash this in your car and take it with you.
Pros:
Smart, compact design that is also discreet
Doubles as a storage compartment
Long adjustable strap gives you flexibility in installation
Cons:
You need to have plastic bags on hand to use this product
Going the complete opposite direction, the Keep-It-Clean can adds a pop of color to your car and takes as little space as possible.
Unlike other models, this car trash can prides itself in having collapsible sides. Instead of aiming for a bulky form, it takes full advantage of soft yet durable materials. This makes it travel-friendly, as it doesn’t take up a lot of space.
The two adjustable straps along the top of the product are used to hang it from wherever you want in your car. It will fit the center console, the door handle, and the headrest just fine on most cars.
This product is made from soft leak-proof fabric. It’s available in four styles: black, tan, gray, and blue-and-white polka dots. Regardless of the design you opt for, you can trust no liquid will seep through the fabric and dirty up your car.
There is a clasp button at the top of the can right in the middle of the opening. By clasping it, the smells of whatever you put in the trash bag won’t spread through your car. Plus, nothing will fall out of the bin even if you hit potholes.
Lastly, the two mesh pockets on the side offer handy extra storage space. They’re big enough to fit a water bottle each or, for example, a couple of granola bars for when you get hungry while driving.
Pros:
Button lets you close the bin and keep things from falling off
Mesh pockets on the sides are handy and convenient
Leak-proof design is compact and easy to store
Cons:
Not a ton of room, especially for long road trips or large families
How We Chose These Products
Every time we write an article highlighting certain products, we’re careful to only select the best of the best. That’s why we spend hours researching every article we write. Our writing process goes through the following stages:
Searching best-selling products on Amazon
Reading hundreds of customer reviews
Researching “Amazon’s Choice” program
Studying each brand’s reputation
Reading up on the topic to look for important features
Visiting authority websites in the industry
Why Get a Car Trash Can?
Even if you don’t see the benefits of getting a trash can, they’re there! Let’s look at some of them…
Reducing the amount of trash littered in your car: The average American produces roughly 4.4 pounds of trash every day. How much of that is produced while driving? Well, think of all the tissues you’ve used up, the drinks you’ve finished, and the snacks you’ve had behind the wheel. Where does that trash usually go? More often than not, it goes on your car’s floor or, worse, it goes out the window. Getting a car trash can would solve that. You can store the trash in the bin and empty it when you get home. Not only is it an environmentally friendly measure, but it will also make your car look as good as new!
Storing foods and drinks while on the road: If you’re going on a road trip or on a picnic, you’ll likely want to keep snacks and drinks around. Instead of having to buy a cooler, you can just store them in your car trash can. Most models even look like picnic fabric baskets.
Have your children’s toys at hand: Besides storing empty food wrappers and bottles, your car trash bin can also store other things. When going on a long trip with kids, it’s good having their toys at hand. Children tend to get a little…fussy…when they’re in one place for too long. Having their favorite toy inside the bin will distract them from the long drive and save you a few headaches.
Car Trash Can Buying Guide: What’s the Best Product for Me?
Now that you’ve seen and read about the 10 best car trash can products, it’s time to choose one that suits you. But how can you do that?
Everyone’s needs are different, just like every car is different. To help you choose the best car trash can for you, specifically, we’ve put together this buying guide. Read it over and take notes of the features you find most useful. We guarantee you’ll feel less loss looking at car garbage cans after you do!
Types of Car Trash Cans
Essentially, there are three types of trash cans for cars:
Hanging car trash cans: These cans come with adjustable straps that you fasten around the headrest. You can install it either on the back of the driver’s seat or on the back of the passenger’s seat. The good thing about them is that they’re easy to reach and don’t interfere with your driving. Their downside is that they don’t always fit every car. Before buying to a hanging car trash can, ensure the straps will fit your car’s headrests.
Cup holder car trash cans: These are less common, but you can still find them. They’re usually made of plastic and designed to fit your car’s cup holder. They will also fit the bottle holders some cars have on the back seat’s doors. Their biggest selling point is that they are easy for the driver to reach and don’t block any important features. On the downside, finding one that fits your car may be hard, as there isn’t a universal cup holder size.
Floor car trash cans: The last type of trash can for cars is one that should be placed on the floor. They typically have some sort of strap to keep the bin in place. What’s great about them is that they’re bigger than other bags and less conspicuous. However, they can take up leg room, making some passengers uncomfortable.
Size
When looking at car trash cans, consider how much trash you’ll be making. Big families, for example, will most likely need bigger cans than two-person families. Buy one according to your needs.
Method and Ease of Installation
Where do you want your trash bin to be installed? On the floor? On the headrest? In the cup holder? Choose a can that can stay put where you want it to.
And remember: not all products fit in every car. Always make sure to research if that specific product can be installed safely (and easily) in your vehicle.
Material and Stitching Quality
Ideally, you want a car trash can that’s durable. Look for sturdy materials (such as rugged canvas) in order to get the most out of your buck.
Make sure to also look in the reviews for complaints of the quality of the stitching. You don’t want to end up with a bin that will come undone after a few months of being used, right?
Interior Lining
Waterproof and leak-proof interior lining will help you clean your car trash bin quickly and efficiently. No one wants to fret over how to get rid of a mess. So, choose a bag that has an impermeable lining that can be removed. Alternatively, you could opt for one that uses ordinary plastic grocery bags, even though that’s not the most environmentally friendly option.
Car Trash Can with Lid?
We love cans with lids. They trap in bad smells and keep the trash we produce out of sight. Moreover, they just look sleeker, right? Nothing says “trashy” louder than piles and piles of used tissues and food wrappers—quite literally, too.
Durability and Cost
Obviously, money comes into play when choosing a car trash can. You don’t need to go over budget to get a good bin for your car. Just look at our “budget-friendly” pick!
Once you factor in how much you’re willing to spend, look for sturdy bags within your budget. The more uses you get out of it, the better.
Design and Looks
Lastly, we can’t ignore looks—we’re all shallow creatures! It’s your car, so this is totally up to you.
Some people like to get cans that blend into their vehicle’s interior design (ones that match the upholsteries, for example). Others like to get creative and add a pop of color to their car.
It’s all about personal preference and there are dozens of different designs out there to choose from. You won’t lack options, that’s for sure!
