Let us all take a moment to appreciate the humble trash can...

Of all the inanimate objects in our homes, the trash can has perhaps the most thankless role. When a trash can does what it's supposed to do, we barely acknowledge it--yet when it doesn't, we can't think about anything else.

At The Container Store, however, we've decided it's time that we elevate this receptacle into something truly noble. For us, it's imperative that these products not only serve the important function of shielding you from the horrors contained within, but also look pretty darn nice. We were very particular about what we were looking for, so we opted to create our own product line. They put a lot of thought into the design of these premium trash cans--in fact, each has a 10-year warranty!--and here are five of our favorites...

10 Gal./40L Stainless Steel Dual Recycler Step Trash Can

Our Stainless Steel Dual Recycler Step Trash Can is the smart and compact way to separate your trash from your recyclables. The outside is made of fingerprint-resistant stainless steel--an absolute MUST if you have small children--and the interior features two easily-removable buckets that each fit standard 6 gallon liners. Plus, the built-in deodorizer in the soft-close lid puts a stop to pungent smells.

8 Gal./30L Linkable Step Trash Can

Let's say you're someone whose household produces a LOT of trash--what to do? (That's no judgment on you; maybe you have a large family or throw a lot of big parties.) For those situations, we have our Linkable Step Trash Cans. Each one includes a coupler that allows it to be linked side-by-side to other cans, allowing you to create an efficiently-sorted recycling center in your kitchen or garage. And for extra convenience, each can be labeled (trash, glass, paper, metal, plastic, etc.).

12.4 Gal./47L Motion Sensor Trash Can

Our Motion Sensor Trash Can is what Oscar the Grouch might refer to as a "luxury Streamline Moderne townhouse." It features an intelligent sensor that allows for touch-free operation, but can also be switched to manual mode should you need to keep the lid open during cooking prep time. The lid also has an interior deodorizer compartment that those with more sensitive noses will particularly love.

8 Gal. Pull-Out Trash Can

What if you don't have a lot of floor space, or would just rather not use it for a trash can? Well, we've got that covered too. Our 8 gal. Pull-Out Trash Can can be installed in lower kitchen cabinets and pull out up to 18" for easy access. The gliding components feature an extra-quiet ball bearing track--no squeaky metallic "el train" noises here!--and the removable 8 gal. can works with standard kitchen bag liners.

1.6 Gal./6L Semi-Round Step Trash Can

Perfect for bathrooms, offices, and other rooms that might require a smaller trash can, the 1.6 gal. Semi-Round Step Trash Can is the way to go. Constructed of fingerprint-resistant stainless steel and sporting a plastic interior bucket and soft-close lid, it's essentially a junior version of its kitchen counterparts. We find it kind of adorable.