Touchless trash cans are a great invention and becoming more and more popular. They are convenient and easy to use. However, like any other appliance, they can sometimes malfunction.
If your touchless trash can isn’t opening or closing correctly, don’t worry – there are a couple of possible solutions you can try to fix the issue.
Here, we’ll outline some of the most common problems with touchless trash cans and provide you with solutions on how to solve them. So read on for more information you need to get your trash can up and running again!
What is a Touchless Trash Can
A touchless trash can, also known as a sensor trash can, is a type of garbage can that opens automatically with the help of infrared sensors. The lid automatically opens when your hand or an object gets close to the opening and closes when you move away.

Moreover, these are also more hygienic than traditional garbage bins, as they help prevent germs from spreading. Most touchless trash cans are powered by batteries, but some models can be plugged into an outlet.
Some touchless trash cans also have an infrared sensor that can detect when your hand is near the unit. This allows you to open the lid without actually touching it.
Some touchless trash cans have features like automatic sealing lids and built-in deodorizers to help keep your garbage smelling fresh.
4 commonly occurring problems & their solutions
Touchless trash cans are susceptible to several issues and can be fixed in several ways.
1: Trash Can Isn’t Opening
There’s nothing more frustrating than having your trash can refuse to open when you need it. If you have a touchless trash can that isn’t opening, there are a few things you can try.
Check the Battery
First, check to ensure the batteries are installed correctly and have power. If the batteries are low, they may not be able to provide enough power to trigger the sensor.
If the batteries are fine, try waving your hand closer to the sensor or placing an object closer. The sensor may be slightly out of reach and needs to be adjusted.
2: Trash Can is Opening but Not Closing
It can be a hassle when your touchless trash can isn’t working as it should. You can try a few things if the lid is opening but not closing.

Check if Anything is Blocking the Sensor
To test the sensor, hold your hand about an inch away from the opening and see if the can opens. If not, try wiping the sensor clean with a damp cloth. In some cases, dirt or debris can build up on the sensor and interfere with its ability to function properly.
You may also have to adjust the position of the sensor. If it’s too far away from the lid, it won’t be able to trigger the lid to close.
3: Trash Can Opens Too Slowly
If you have a touchless trash can, you may have noticed that it doesn’t always open quickly when you wave your hand in front of it. There are a few reasons why this may be happening.
First, the sensor on the trash can may be misaligned. You can try moving the trash can closer to the door or window so that the sensor has a clear line of sight.
Secondly, the batteries in the trash can may need to be replaced. If you’ve been using the same batteries for a while, they may no longer be able to hold a charge.
Adjust the Sensitivity of the Sensor
There is usually a sensitivity adjustment knob on the side of the trash can. Try turning it until you find a setting that works best for you.
You may need to experiment with different settings to find the one that works best for you. If none of the listed approaches resolves the issue, contact the manufacturer for further assistance.
4: Can is Leaking
If your trash can leaks, there could be a few different reasons.
First, check to see if the garbage bag is properly in place. If it’s not, then that could be causing leaks.
The second possibility is that the seal around the lid isn’t tight enough. The problem may be caused by a buildup of dirt and debris. Clean the seal with a soft cloth and ensure it’s dry before putting the lid back on.
You may also need to replace the garbage bags. If they’re old or damaged, they could be causing leaks.
Touchless Trash Can Maintenance Tips
No one wants their kitchen and surroundings to smell like garbage! The bright side is that it’s simple to find easy ways to keep your trash can clean and odor-free, even if you don’t have time to take it out to the curbside every week.
Here are a few touchless trash can maintenance tips:

Use a liner: A garbage bag or liner will help to keep your trash can clean and make it easier to empty. Just be sure to choose a bag that fits snugly so it doesn’t slip into the can.
Wipe outside the trash: Wipe with a damp cloth or disinfectant wipes. Be sure to pay special attention to the handles and buttons that are touched often.
Deodorize regularly: To keep your trash can smelling fresh, sprinkle some baking soda in the bottom before adding a new liner. In addition, you can add a few drops of essential oil to the baking soda to boost freshness.
Rinse it out: Give your trash can a good rinse with water and white vinegar every so often. This will be beneficial in removing any build-up of gunk and bacteria.
Following these simple tips, you can keep your trash can clean and odour-free with minimal effort!
Conclusion
However, touchless trash cans can sometimes experience problems like any other appliance. If your touchless trash can stops working correctly, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot it and get it up and running again.
We’ve outlined these steps for you, so be sure to give them a try if your trash can isn’t working properly. Hopefully, these solutions will take care of the issue, and you won’t have to call for repairs.