The 7 Best Trash Can Deodorizers of 2023

Best Overall

Fresh Wave Odor Eliminating & Deodorizing Packs

4.9

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While Fresh Wave Packs can be used just about anywhere, we found that they are super effective at eliminating odors when placed strategically at the bottom of a trash can. Each resealable pouch contains six odor-fighting satchels, which are small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. But don't let their compact size fool you; they have big odor-fighting capabilities! The packs are stuffed with deodorizing beads that contain plant-based ingredients—such as lime, pine needle, and cedar wood—and leave your garbage smelling oh-so-fresh. 

Each pack will last up to 60 days before needing to be replaced. At less than $2 per pod, they also offer a good price-to-performance ratio. This product is available in three scents: original, lavender, and lemon. You may have mixed feelings about the smell. Some find it pleasant, and others find it strong. On a positive note, it has the power to eliminate the worst trash smells, including pet urine and discarded seafood, which is why it’s our top pick. 

Price at time of publish: $10

_{Amount: 6 per pack | Type: Beads | Scent: Original, lavender, and lemon | Lasts For: Up to 60 days}

Best Budget

Air Wick Stick Ups Air Freshener

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You'll find that these effective and affordably-priced air fresheners are small enough to tuck under the lid of a trash can. With adhesive tape on the back, they can cling to almost any dry surface. The benefit of using stick-on deodorizers, such as Air Wick, is that they have the same odor-fighting effect without the powdery mess, explains Homer. Plus, the air fresheners come in a few scent options: lavender and chamomile, sparkling citrus, and crisp breeze. By twisting the disc, you can easily adjust the amount of fragrance that’s released. 

Air Wick Stick Ups come in packs of two, and each puck lasts up to 30 days. Although they may need to be replaced more frequently than other options, they offer an affordable price point. They can also be tucked away in a variety of other spots throughout your home, including closets, bathrooms, and litter boxes. For best results, they should be placed directly at the source of odors. The adhesive tape may not be super strong, but you can easily reapply your own tape to reinforce it.

Note that air fresheners simply diffuse fragrance, which means they mask odors rather than eliminate them. The manufacturer explains that the wicks can also cause skin irritation if touched, so it’s best to keep them away from children and handle them with caution and care.

Price at time of publish: $2

_{Amount: 2 per pack | Type: Pucks | Scent: Sparkling citrus, crisp breeze, lavender and chamomile | Lasts For: Up to 30 days}

Best Stick-On

Simplehuman Odorsorb Pod Starter Pack

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Simplehuman’s Odorsorb pods can be attached to the underside of any trash lid with an adhesive strip. The pods use plant-based oils to combat odors, making them an eco-friendly alternative. With a microporous membrane, the oils are continually released at an exact dosage over 45 days. For that reason, each pod is equally effective every single day of its lifespan. 

Each pack comes with two pods and a pod holder, which makes them easy to remove and replace. The pod holder has an adhesive strip that can be conveniently attached under a trash can lid. With such a simple installation process, our tester says that “almost anyone can use this easy tool to combat smelly trash cans.” 

But does it work? Yes, it does! Our tester also notes that the Odorsorb pod successfully keeps unpleasant smells at bay. “In the weeks since I installed my Odorsorb pod, I’ve barely noticed the trash in my kitchen,” she explains. “No smells, good or bad, have wafted out when I open the can, and even when the trash is full, I don’t notice any unpleasant odors.”

Price at time of publish: $20

_{Amount: 2 per pack | Type: Pod | Scent: Fresh scent | Lasts For: 45 days}

Best for Outdoor Trash Cans

Stinky Bins Absorbing Granules

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Stinky Bins granules absorb spilled liquids and sludge, converting them into odor-free, stable compounds. For best results, spread a thin layer on the bottom of an empty trash receptacle or garbage bag. Because the product immediately neutralizes odor-causing bacteria and eliminates the source that attracts flies, you’ll find that this product is an excellent choice for outdoor trash cans. While Stinky Bins doesn’t eliminate odors entirely, it’s a biodegradable solution, making it an eco-friendly alternative to chemical-based cleaners. 

According to the manufacturer, 3 ounces is an adequate amount to treat your garbage can for a week, meaning a 24-ounce package should last about two months. Plus, if you love the smell of cherries, then you’ll love the Stinky Bins’ scent, too, and find it pleasant rather than overpowering. 

Price at time of publish: $12

_{Amount: 24 ounces | Type: Granules | Scent: Cherry | Lasts For: 2 months}

Best Powder

Arm & Hammer Trash and Dumpster Deodorizer

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Arm & Hammer’s powder formula uses odor-fighting baking soda to eliminate tough smells on contact. For best results, sprinkle a little powder at the bottom of your trash can before use. Then sprinkle it directly onto the garbage each time you pile more on. Like all powders, it can be messier and easier to spill than other types of formulas. Still, the 42-ounce container lasts for a long time—several months to a year on average—making it a great value. 

The fragrance can be strong at first, but the good news is that it dissipates quickly. Everyone may not be a fan of the scent, but this powder effectively eliminates some of the worst smells, including garbage that has been subjected to hot weather. Use it in all types of indoor and outdoor trash cans, diaper pails, and dog waste bins. 

Price at time of publish: $10

_{Amount: 42.6 ounces | Type: Powder | Scent: Fresh scent | Lasts For: Several months to a year on average} 

Best Unscented

remodeez Trash Can Deodorizer

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Made of activated charcoal from coconut husks, remodeez Trash Can Deodorizers are unscented, and use an eco-friendly method to eliminate odor. These adhesive pods contain a charcoal pouch that is surrounded by a foam casing with ventilation holes. The charcoal bags attract and pull moisture from the air, which helps to get rid of smells. Thanks to 3M Dual Lock Technology, the deodorizers stick to almost any surface, including garbage lids and recycling bins. You might find that the sticker won’t adhere well and may come loose over time. An easy fix is to reapply the pod with double-sided tape.

The purple deodorizer is specifically designed for use in trash cans. However, the charcoal deodorizers also come in three other colors and are intended for a specific purpose: fridge, litter box, and shoe deodorizing. According to the manufacturer, activated charcoal can last up to a year. If that’s the case, you’ll certainly get your money’s worth. To “recharge” the charcoal pouch, just place it out in the sun for a few hours. While the outer casing is not recyclable, once the pouch is totally spent, the carbon powder can be composted in a garden. 

Price at time of publish: $10

_{Amount: 1 | Type: Pod | Scent: None | Lasts For: Up to a year}