We have all been there. You finish a snack or a drink while driving, and suddenly your car door pocket is full of sticky wrappers and old napkins. It is frustrating to keep a vehicle tidy when there is nowhere to put the trash. Finding the best small trash can for car use can change your daily commute from a messy chore into a clean, organized experience. These tiny tools are designed to fit into tight spaces like cup holders or door panels, ensuring your car stays spotless without taking up much-needed legroom.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 9 Best Small Trash Can For Car Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Accmor Mini Car Trash Can with Lid and 30 Trash Bags for Vehicle and Office Use
The Accmor Mini Car Trash Can is a top-tier choice for drivers who want a clean car without a bulky bin. It is built from high-strength waterproof plastic that promises a long lifespan.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Made from durable, waterproof plastic materials.
- ✓ High-strength hook for hanging on doors or seats.
- ✓ Compact 6.3×5.1×2.48 inch size fits almost anywhere.
- ✓ Includes 30 disposable trash bags for immediate use.
Why We Recommend It
We love this trash can because it balances size and utility perfectly. It fits into door panels easily, ensuring your center console stays clear of clutter.
Best For
This is best for solo drivers or small cars where space is at a premium and every inch counts.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very easy to install with the included hook.
- Leak-proof design prevents spills on your upholstery.
- The flip-top lid hides trash from view.
Cons:
- The small opening is not ideal for large cups.
- Requires specific tiny bags for a perfect fit.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I didn’t realize how much random clutter my car collected — receipts, gum wrappers, straw papers — until I got this Accmor Mini Trash Can. Now, my car actually looks like an adult drives it. It’s compact but surprisingly roomy.
Customer Review: The Accmor bin is small enough to tuck into tight spaces without being intrusive, yet large enough for daily small-to-medium-sized trash. The bounce cover helps seal in odors.
2. Leakproof Mini Car Trash Can with Lid and 90 Trash Bags for Cup Holders and Vehicles
This innovative cup holder trash can is a game-changer for those who want accessibility. It comes with a generous supply of 90 bags, making it a long-term cleanliness solution.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Designed specifically for standard car cup holders.
- ✓ Two opening methods: spring-loaded push and button opening.
- ✓ Includes 90 tear-resistant matching garbage bags.
- ✓ Constructed with premium, easy-to-clean materials.
Why We Recommend It
The dual-opening lid is fantastic. You can push trash in quickly or open it fully for larger items, providing versatility you don’t usually see in small bins.
Best For
Perfect for commuters who use their cup holders for trash or those who have extra cup holders in the back seat.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent gift for any new car owner.
- Large number of included bags saves money.
- Sturdy build that doesn’t rattle while driving.
Cons:
- Occupies a cup holder that might be needed for drinks.
- Taller items can prevent the lid from closing.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: This is an excellent gift for any car owner. It comes with its own trash bags. I bought four for family members and they all had different reasons as to why they needed it.
Customer Review: Exactly as described, great trash can for car. Would recommend.
3. Accmor 2-Pack Mini Car Trash Can with Lid and 60 Replacement Bags for Automotive Storage
If you have multiple cars or just a lot of passengers, this 2-pack offers the best bang for your buck. These bins share the same great quality as the single pack but double the convenience.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Two-pack bundle for multiple locations or vehicles.
- ✓ 60 replacement bags included in the box.
- ✓ Flexible installation with a sturdy back hook.
- ✓ Waterproof interior ensures no leaks on carpets.
Why We Recommend It
Getting two for a low price is hard to beat. You can put one in the front door and one in the back seat, covering all your bases without spending a fortune.
Best For
Families with children or households with two vehicles that both need a small organization boost.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Superb value for money with two units.
- Compact size doesn’t bother legroom.
- Durable construction feels like it will last years.
Cons:
- Hook may not fit very thick seat pockets.
- Lid spring could be a bit stronger.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: It’s compact but surprisingly roomy, holding more than you’d think without taking up precious space. Having two is great for both doors.
Customer Review: The Accmor bin is small enough to tuck into tight spaces without being intrusive. I love that it comes with so many bags.
4. Leakproof 2-Pack Car Trash Can with Lid and 30 Detachable Bags for Vehicle Interior Storage
These OUDEW trash cans are sleek and discreet. They fit naturally into the modern aesthetics of newer cars without looking like an out-of-place accessory.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Fits door pockets, seatback pockets, or cup holders.
- ✓ Flip-top design provides an odor-free seal.
- ✓ Includes 30 matching disposable liners.
- ✓ Made from easy-to-wash, high-quality plastic.
Why We Recommend It
The seal on these is impressive. If you have smelly trash like fruit peels, the flip-top does a great job of keeping those odors trapped inside until you empty it.
Best For
Drivers who want a very discreet look that blends into the car’s interior panels.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Keeps the car smelling fresh with the sealed lid.
- Smooth plastic is very easy to wipe clean.
- Perfect height for most side door pockets.
Cons:
- The bags are thin and can tear if overstuffed.
- The lid can be tricky to open with one hand while driving.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Such a great little trash can! Fits perfectly in the side door pocket. Slick and discreet and keep the vehicle clean. We have them in all our vehicles!
Customer Review: These little trash cans are life-savers. So easy to use and discreet that even slobs like me can keep a clean car.
5. Universal 2-Pack Mini Leakproof Car Trash Can with Lid and 40 Replacement Bags in Black
These universal bins are all about functionality. The detachable design makes them easy to mount and even easier to empty when they get full.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Clever detachable design for easy installation.
- ✓ Self-closing lid prevents trash from spilling out.
- ✓ Waterproof plastic material for maximum durability.
- ✓ Comes with 40 replacement bags in black.
Why We Recommend It
The self-closing lid is the star here. It ensures that even if you take a sharp turn, the trash stays inside the bin and off your floor mats.
Best For
Backseat passengers, specifically kids who might forget to close a manual lid.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Keeps everything neat and organized effortlessly.
- Great for holding small items like straw wrappers and tissues.
- Clip stays secure on most seat pockets.
Cons:
- Smaller than some other “mini” options.
- Lid opening is quite narrow.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I love these tiny trash cans. Each of my kids has one on their respective sides of the car. And they are really helping to keep things neat.
Customer Review: I appreciated that they came with bags. They fit my rear seat organizer system perfectly.
6. Hanging Back Seat Car Trash Can with Lid and Leakproof Liner for Trucks and SUVs
When “mini” just isn’t enough, the Vankor hanging bin steps up. It provides a larger capacity and extra storage pockets for things like umbrellas or water bottles.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Large main compartment with 3 outer pouch pockets.
- ✓ Side clasps to keep disposable bags from slipping.
- ✓ Adjustable straps for headrest or console mounting.
- ✓ Soft-sided but holds its shape well.
Why We Recommend It
This is a multitasker. It’s not just a trash can; it’s an organizer. The outer pockets are perfect for sanitizers, tissues, or charging cables.
Best For
Trucks, SUVs, and long road trips where you accumulate more than just a few wrappers.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Much larger capacity than cup holder models.
- Extra pockets are very useful for passengers.
- Sturdy enough to stand on its own if needed.
Cons:
- Takes up more space in the backseat leg area.
- Fabric exterior requires more effort to clean than plastic.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Didn’t think I’d ever hype up a car trash can, but this Vankor bin is legit. It hangs perfectly and the lid actually keeps the mess and smells contained.
Customer Review: I happened across this trash container solution, and it was quite inexpensive but works better than any DIY solution I tried.
7. K Knodel 2 Gallon Black Leakproof and Waterproof Car Trash Can with Lid for Vehicles
The K Knodel trash can is built like a tank. It uses premium Oxford Polyester and a thick liner to ensure that even a half-full soda cup won’t leak through to your car floor.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 2-gallon capacity for heavy-duty use.
- ✓ Durable Oxford Polyester material.
- ✓ Adjustable straps allow for placement anywhere in the car.
- ✓ Insulated liner can double as a cooler bag.
Why We Recommend It
We love the versatility. If you aren’t using it for trash, the insulation makes it a great little bag for keeping a few drinks cold during a summer drive.
Best For
Daily commuters with kids or anyone who spends hours in their vehicle every day.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Completely waterproof and leak-proof.
- Very sturdy construction that doesn’t collapse.
- Easy to install on the center console or headrest.
Cons:
- Too large for very small compact cars.
- Can be bulky for front-seat passengers.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Perfect fit for the back seat of my car. Have a dirty child that likes to use the floor as her trash can, hopefully she will use this instead.
Customer Review: Car garbage! Works great, it’s even insulated! Perfect for the kids to help keep car clean.
8. Pink Mini Leakproof Car Trash Can with Lid and 20 Bags for Cup Holder Use
Who says car accessories have to be boring? This pink mini trash can adds a pop of color to your interior while keeping your cup holder free of receipts and gum wrappers.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Vibrant pink color for a personalized look.
- ✓ Crafted from high-grade ABS material.
- ✓ Easy flip lid for quick disposal.
- ✓ Comes with 20 custom-fit trash bags.
Why We Recommend It
It is stylish and functional. If you are going for a specific aesthetic in your car, this is one of the few high-quality options that isn’t just plain black.
Best For
Drivers who want to personalize their car interior with cute, functional accessories.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Super cute design that stands out.
- Perfectly fits standard cup holders.
- The ABS plastic is very durable.
Cons:
- Smaller capacity meant only for tiny trash.
- Lid can be a bit stiff at first.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Super cute Car Trash Bin! Fits in Cup Holder! Bags included!
Customer Review: Love them! So cute and they fit perfectly in the sides of your doors. You have to shove wrappers in, but it works well.
9. Foldable and Collapsible 2 Gallon Hanging Car Trash Can with Leakproof Liner for Car Seats
The biggest problem with large trash cans is the space they take up when empty. This collapsible model solves that problem by folding flat when it is not in use.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Collapsible design for easy storage when empty.
- ✓ 2-gallon capacity when fully expanded.
- ✓ Adjustable straps for various hanging options.
- ✓ Built-in leakproof liner for wet trash.
Why We Recommend It
It’s the most versatile option for people who only need a trash can occasionally. You can keep it folded until you go on a trip, then pop it open when needed.
Best For
Occasional road trippers or people who frequently swap between having passengers and cargo.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Saves a massive amount of space when folded.
- Sturdy enough to sit on the floor hump.
- Easy to install and move between vehicles.
Cons:
- Fabric can absorb odors if not cleaned regularly.
- May sag slightly if very heavy items are added.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: This car trash can has been exactly what I needed. The size is just right, and the collapsible design makes it easy to fold up when I don’t need it.
Customer Review: It’s sturdy, sits right on the hump behind the armrest, and is very convenient. Great value for the money.
Complete Buying Guide for Best Small Trash Can For Car
Essential Factors We Consider
When you are looking for the best small trash can for car, the first thing you should think about is placement. Do you want it in your cup holder, hanging from a headrest, or tucked into a door pocket? Measuring these areas beforehand can save you from buying a bin that doesn’t fit. We also look at materials. Hard plastic is easier to wipe down, while fabric bags often offer more capacity and extra pockets for organization.
Budget Planning
Most small car trash cans are very affordable, usually ranging from $8 to $25. If you are on a tight budget, look for 2-pack deals which often lower the price per unit significantly. Also, consider the cost of replacement bags. Some models come with a large starter pack, which adds a lot of value compared to models that require you to buy bags separately right away.
Final Thoughts
A clean car makes for a much more relaxing drive. Whether you choose a tiny cup holder model or a larger 2-gallon hanging bag, having a dedicated spot for garbage will stop clutter from taking over your life. It is a small investment that makes a massive difference in how you feel every time you step into your vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will these trash cans fit in any car?
A: Most mini trash cans are universal, but cup holder models might be a tight fit in very small or very large cup holders. Always check the diameter of your cup holder before buying.
Q: Do I need to use special bags?
A: Many of these come with custom-fit bags. While you can sometimes use grocery bags or small bathroom liners, the custom bags usually fit the lids much better and look neater.
Q: Are they easy to clean?
A: Yes! Plastic models can be rinsed with soap and water. Fabric models with leakproof liners can usually be wiped down with a damp cloth or a disinfecting wipe.
Q: Can these be used for things other than trash?
A: Absolutely. Many people use them to store umbrellas, charging cables, or even as a small cooler for a couple of water bottles if they have an insulated liner.
Keeping your car tidy does not have to be a struggle. By picking the best small trash can for car use that fits your lifestyle, you can keep your interior looking like new. Ready to upgrade your ride? Choose one of our top-rated picks today and enjoy a clutter-free commute!