Keeping the kitchen clean and convenient can really come down to the right tools. The KOHLER 13-Gallon Touchless Trash Can promises hands-free operation with its motion sensor, aiming to keep things a bit more hygienic and, honestly, just easier. Its slim, rectangular shape means it tucks up against a wall or cabinet without hogging precious space.
- Touchless Operation: Wave your hand over the motion sensor for a hygienic, hands-free lid opening, minimizing the spread of germs in your home
- Customizable Lid Control: Use the stay-open button for continuous use or the force-close button to manually close the Quiet-Close lid gently and silently
- Compact & Space-Saving Design: Slim rectangular profile fits snugly against walls or cabinets, with a hinge design that prevents scuffs and maximizes space
People seem to like the long-lasting battery, the simple bag change, and that fingerprint-resistant finish—less time wiping off smudges. Still, some have run into motion sensor hiccups after a while, which can be a letdown if you’re banking on the touchless part. It’s definitely got a modern vibe and feels sturdy, but that sensor reliability is something to think about.
If you’re curious, click here to view the KOHLER Touchless Trash Can on Amazon.
Overview of the KOHLER 13-Gallon Touchless Black Stainless Steel Trash Can
This one pairs a motion-sensor lid with a slim, rectangular shape, so it sits pretty flush against your kitchen setup. The touchless opening is a small but meaningful upgrade for anyone who’s tired of touching the lid with messy hands.
You get both automatic and manual lid control, including a stay-open option for those longer kitchen tasks. The fingerprint-resistant finish is a nice touch—keeps things looking tidy. Bag changes? Pretty straightforward with the removable liner and rim.
Users are mostly happy with the rechargeable power and how quietly the lid moves. But, yeah, some do mention sensor reliability isn’t always a given.
Pros:
- Hands-free operation
- Space-saving shape
- Easy bag swaps and cleaning
Cons:
- Sensor durability can be hit or miss
- Price is up there compared to basic cans
Touchless Motion Sensor Lid
A motion-activated lid just makes life a bit easier (and less gross). The sensor reacts to a wave, popping the lid open, and closes itself quietly after a few seconds.
People like the convenience, especially when they’re mid-recipe and their hands are a mess. The stay-open and manual close buttons are handy too. Battery life and USB charging? Practical, for sure.
But, honestly, the sensor doesn’t always go the distance—some folks end up with a manual lid sooner than they’d like.
Pros:
- No-touch opening
- Quiet close
- Manual controls if you want them
Cons:
- Sensor can quit working after a while
Customizable Lid Controls
You get a couple of manual lid options besides the sensor: a stay-open button for when you’re tossing a lot in, and a force-close button if you want it shut right away.
This is handy when you don’t want the lid flapping every time you walk by. The extra buttons do need a wipe now and then to stay responsive.
Pros:
- Manual override is useful
- Stay-open mode helps for big cleanups
Cons:
- Buttons can get gunky
- Might take a bit to get used to the controls
Space-Saving Slim Design
The narrow, rectangular build means you can squeeze this can against a wall or between cabinets, which is great if your kitchen isn’t exactly sprawling.
The hinge is placed so the lid doesn’t smack the wall every time you open it—small detail, but it matters. If you tend to toss bulky trash, though, the slimmer shape might cramp your style.
Pros:
- Fits in snug spaces
- Hinge protects your walls
Cons:
- Not ideal for oversized trash
Effortless Bag Changes and Cleaning
The removable liner bin lets you pull out the whole inside for quick bag swaps—no wrestling with stuck bags. The rim design keeps the bag from slipping, which is honestly a relief.
Wiping down the smooth stainless steel surface is easy, and the fingerprint-resistant finish means you’re not constantly cleaning. Still, if you don’t wipe it down now and then, smudges can show up.
Pros:
- Liner bin makes life easier
- Bags stay put
- Less visible smudging
Potential Drawbacks:
- Need a little clearance to pull out the liner
- Smudges can still happen if you let it go too long
Durability and Power Options
The can feels solid, with a black stainless steel finish that’s easy to wipe and doesn’t show every fingerprint. The hinge seems built to last, and the removable liner helps with upkeep. Some folks have had theirs running smooth for a while, but others hit sensor trouble before a year’s up.
It runs on a built-in rechargeable battery or you can leave it plugged in with USB. For lighter use, a single charge lasts quite a while, but if you’re tossing stuff all day, you’ll be charging more often.
Pros:
- Stays looking nice with minimal effort
- USB or rechargeable battery—take your pick
- Good battery life for most households
Cons:
- Sensor problems crop up for some
- Charging frequency depends on how much you use it
Aesthetic Appeal and Kitchen Integration
The black stainless finish is understated and modern, so it blends with most kitchen styles. The matte look is less flashy than polished stainless, which I personally prefer.
Its shape lets it slide in beside cabinets or walls without being a focal point. That’s a plus if you want your trash can to just do its job and not stand out.
Pros:
- Neutral color works with lots of kitchens
- Fingerprint-resistant finish keeps it looking decent
Cons:
- Dust can show more on the dark finish
- Not the best fit if you love curved or round kitchen themes
Pros
Hygienic Hands-Free Operation
The motion sensor lets you toss stuff without touching the lid—great for messy hands. It reacts quickly, so you’re not waiting around.
Key points:
- No-touch lid
- Helps keep germs at bay
- Fast enough for daily use
Quiet and Gentle Lid Closure
The lid closes softly, so there’s no loud clang. If you’ve got light sleepers or jumpy pets, that’s a bonus. The gentle close might even help the lid last longer.
Benefits:
- Quiet
- No slamming
- Lid mechanism might hold up better
Long Battery Life and USB Charging
The rechargeable battery can last for months, depending on how often you use it. Plenty of folks say they rarely need to charge. USB charging means you’re not buying batteries all the time.
| Feature | Advantage |
|---|---|
| Long battery life | Less charging hassle |
| USB charging | No disposable batteries |
| Multiple power options | Plug it in or charge as needed |
Easy Maintenance
Swapping bags is simple with the removable liner and rim. The fingerprint-resistant exterior means less wiping, and a microfiber cloth usually does the trick.
Maintenance highlights:
- Liner lifts out for easy bag changes
- Finish hides most smudges
- Quick to clean
Cons
Not everything’s perfect, and there are a few things to keep in mind.
Potential Sensor Issues
Some people find the motion sensor stops working—sometimes within a year. When that happens, you’re stuck with a manual lid, which kind of defeats the purpose.
Key concerns include:
- No more hands-free
- Lid can be stiff compared to a regular can
It doesn’t seem to happen to everyone, but if you’re buying for the sensor, it’s something to weigh.
Higher Price Point
This can isn’t cheap—definitely pricier than most regular or even some other sensor cans.
Considerations:
- Build and finish are nice, but it’s a splurge
- At this price, you expect it to last, so sensor issues are extra annoying
If you’re watching your budget, the cost—plus the risk of repairs if the sensor fails—might give you pause.
Customer Reviews
Most buyers are happy, saying the sensor works well and the battery lasts a long time. The lid opens and closes smoothly, which keeps things tidy.
People like the look—black stainless fits in with modern kitchens. Being able to choose between charging or plugging in is a plus.
But it’s not all sunshine. A few mention the sensor dying early, leaving them with a stiff, manual lid. Some also feel it’s pricey for what you get.
Common themes from reviews:
- Pros: Smooth sensor, long battery, looks nice, flexible power
- Cons: Sensor can fail, costs more than some alternatives
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the touchless mechanism of the 13-gallon Kohler trash can operate?
The lid opens automatically when the motion sensor detects a hand or object passing above it. This gives you a hands-free way to toss trash and helps keep things a bit cleaner. The sensor’s pretty responsive, but it does close after a few seconds if nothing else moves nearby.
What are the power requirements for the Kohler touchless trash can?
You can use the included USB charging cable or batteries. Most folks say the battery lasts a long time. Having both options is handy, depending on your kitchen setup.
Can the lid of the Kohler touchless trash can stay open manually for longer tasks?
Yep. There’s a stay-open button for when you need the lid up longer, like during meal prep. You can also close it manually if you want it shut sooner.
What are the dimensions of the Kohler 13-gallon touchless trash can?
It measures about 16.69 inches (L) x 11.63 inches (W) x 26.44 inches (H). The slim, rectangular design means it fits up against walls or between cabinets without dominating your floor.
How do I clean and maintain the Kohler touchless trash can for optimal performance?
Wipe the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel with a microfiber cloth to keep it looking good. The removable liner bin and rim make bag changes easy. Cleaning around the sensor helps it stay responsive and avoid false triggers.
Are there any warranty or service plans available for the Kohler touchless trash can?
Kohler usually throws in a manufacturer’s warranty, but honestly, the fine print can differ depending on where you buy it. Some retailers might try to upsell you on extra service plans if you want a bit more peace of mind. It’s a good idea to double-check the details before you hit purchase—just to be sure you know what you’re getting into.
