How to Care for Your iTouchless Trash Can

1. Care Tips for All iTouchless Trash Cans

These basic care tips apply to sensor and step pedal models in both stainless steel and plastic.

Replace the Bag Before It Overfills

An overfilled bag can prevent the lid from opening or closing properly and may place unnecessary strain on the lid, hinge, motor, or pedal mechanism. Replace the liner before waste reaches the top of the container.

Install the Liner Neatly

Make sure the trash bag is secured inside the container and does not interfere with the lid or hinge. Loose bag material can become caught in the mechanism and prevent the lid from closing completely.

When your model includes a liner ring or bag retainer, use it to hold the bag securely and keep excess liner material hidden inside the can.

Keep the Lid and Hinge Areas Clear

Periodically check the lid, hinge, and rim for food residue, dust, loose liner material, or small pieces of trash. Remove debris with a soft, dry cloth.

Do not place fingers, cleaning tools, or other objects inside a moving hinge, motor, or pedal mechanism.

Clean Spills Promptly

Spills and food residue can cause stains, odors, and buildup. Remove the liner and clean spills as soon as possible using mild soap, warm water, and a soft cloth.

Allow the trash can to dry completely before installing a new liner.

Choose the Right Location

Place your trash can on a flat, stable surface. Leave enough clearance above and behind the can for the lid to open fully without hitting a wall, countertop, shelf, or cabinet.

Avoid placing the trash can next to excessive heat, open flames, showers, humidifiers, or areas where the lid may be exposed to frequent splashes.

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2. AbsorbX® Odor Filter Installation & Care

Select iTouchless trash cans include an AbsorbX® natural carbon odor filter designed to help absorb and neutralize unpleasant trash odors.

How to Install the AbsorbX® Filter

1. Remove the AbsorbX® filter from its sealed pouch.
2. Locate the odor filter compartment or holder inside the trash can lid.
3. Place the filter securely inside the compartment.
4. Close or secure the filter compartment, if applicable.

How to Change the AbsorbX® Filter for Different Trash Can Models

The location and design of the AbsorbX® filter compartment may vary depending on your iTouchless trash can model. Follow the illustration that matches your trash can's filter compartment.

AbsorbX® Filter Care FAQ

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3. Care Tips for Sensor Trash Cans

Sensor trash cans contain electronic and motorized components that must be kept clean, dry, and free from obstruction.

Keep the Sensor Clean and Dry

Dust, grease, moisture, and food residue may interfere with the motion sensor. Gently wipe the sensor area with a soft, slightly damp cloth, then dry it immediately.

Apply cleaning solution to the cloth instead of spraying it directly onto the sensor, control panel, power switch, or lid assembly.

Never Submerge the Lid Assembly

The lid assembly may contain the motion sensor, motor, battery compartment, wiring, and electronic circuit board. Never submerge it, place it in a dishwasher, or rinse it under running water.

Moisture entering the lid assembly can permanently damage the internal electronic components. Clean the lid with a soft, lightly dampened cloth and dry it thoroughly.

Do Not Press or Force the Automatic Lid

Allow the sensor and motor to open and close the lid automatically. Do not push, pull, press, or force the lid open or closed by hand.

Manually forcing the lid can strip the internal motorized gears, damage the hinge track, or prevent the lid from operating correctly.

Replace Batteries Promptly

Slow lid movement, inconsistent opening, or reduced sensor response may indicate low battery power.

• Use the battery type recommended for your model.
• Replace all batteries at the same time.
• Confirm that each battery is installed in the correct direction.
• Remove batteries when the trash can will not be used for an extended period.

Do not leave old or dead batteries inside the compartment. Leaking battery fluid can corrode the spring terminals and damage the internal electronics.

How to Replace the Batteries in Your Sensor Trash Can

Use Only One Power Source

For models that can operate using either batteries or an AC adapter, use only one power source at a time. Do not use batteries and an AC wall adapter simultaneously.

Follow the power requirements listed in the instructions for your specific model and use only a compatible iTouchless AC adapter when applicable.

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4. Care Tips for Step Pedal Trash Cans

Gentle operation helps protect the pedal, connecting rod, hinge, and soft-close components.

Press the Pedal Gently

Step on the center of the pedal using steady, moderate pressure. Avoid stomping, kicking, or pressing the pedal from the side.

Excessive or uneven pressure may bend or damage the pedal mechanism, internal connecting rod, or lid hinge.

Let the Lid Close Naturally

Release the pedal and allow the lid to close on its own. Do not slam, press, or force the lid closed by hand.

On models with a soft-close lid, forcing the lid may damage the internal air damper or hinge components.

Avoid Pulling the Lid Open by Hand

Use the foot pedal to open the lid whenever possible. Pulling the lid upward manually may place unnecessary strain on the hinge and pedal linkage.

When your model includes a stay-open feature, use it during bag changes or cleaning.

Keep the Pedal and Hinge Clear

Check the area around the pedal, hinge, and lid for debris or loose bag material. Do not continue pressing the pedal when the lid is blocked or unable to open.

Keep the Mechanism Dry

Do not submerge or rinse the lid, hinge, pedal assembly, or soft-close mechanism under running water. Excess moisture may cause corrosion or affect the operation of the air damper and moving parts.

Do not apply oil or lubricant unless the instructions for your specific model recommend it.

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5. Caring for Stainless Steel Trash Cans

Proper cleaning helps protect the stainless steel finish from scratches, discoloration, fingerprints, and water spots.

Use a Soft Cloth and Mild Cleaner

For routine cleaning, use a soft microfiber cloth with mild dish soap diluted in warm water. Wipe the surface gently and dry it immediately with a clean cloth.

Follow the Direction of the Grain

When the stainless steel has a visible grain, wipe in the same direction as the grain. Scrubbing against it may create visible marks or scratches.

Prevent Water Spots

Do not allow water or cleaning solution to air-dry on the surface. Wipe the stainless steel dry after cleaning to help prevent spots and streaking.

Avoid Abrasive and Corrosive Products

Do not use:

• Chlorine bleach
• Steel wool
• Abrasive scrubbing pads
• Scouring powders
• Harsh oven cleaners
• Strong acidic or corrosive cleaners
• Hard-bristle brushes

These products may scratch, stain, corrode, or discolor the stainless steel finish.

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6. Caring for Plastic Trash Cans

Plastic surfaces are easy to maintain but may become scratched, discolored, warped, or brittle when exposed to harsh chemicals or excessive heat.

Clean with Mild Soap and Water

Use mild soap, warm water, and a soft cloth or nonabrasive sponge. For textured areas or corners, use a soft-bristle brush with light pressure.

Protect Plastic from Heat and Sunlight

Keep the trash can away from excessive heat, open flames, heating vents, and prolonged direct sunlight. High temperatures may cause the plastic to fade, soften, or warp.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Do not clean plastic surfaces with:

• Steel wool or abrasive pads
• Acetone
• Paint thinner
• Strong solvents
• Harsh oven cleaners
• Concentrated chlorine bleach
• Extremely hot or boiling water

Apply cleaning products to the cloth rather than spraying them directly onto hinges, controls, sensors, or other moving parts.

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7. Cleaning the Interior

Remove the trash bag and wipe the interior with mild soap, warm water, and a soft cloth. Clean leaks and food residue promptly to help reduce odors and staining.

Do not pour water directly into areas connected to the lid, hinge, pedal, battery compartment, control panel, or electronic components.

When your model has a removable inner bucket, clean it separately using mild soap and water. Dry the bucket completely before returning it to the trash can and installing a new liner.

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8. Troubleshooting and Maintenance Checks

When a Sensor Lid Is Not Working Properly

When a Step Pedal Lid Is Not Working Properly

Refer to the instructions for your specific model before attempting additional troubleshooting or repairs.

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9. What Not to Do

Avoid these common mistakes to help protect your trash can and its operating mechanism:

• Do not submerge or rinse a sensor lid or mechanical lid assembly under running water.
• Do not force an automated or soft-close lid open or closed by hand.
• Do not stomp, kick, or apply excessive pressure to a foot pedal.
• Do not use chlorine bleach, steel wool, abrasive pads, harsh oven cleaners, or corrosive chemicals.
• Do not allow trash or loose liner material to block the lid or hinge.
• Do not leave old or dead batteries installed.
• Do not use batteries and an AC adapter at the same time on compatible dual-power models.
• Do not place heavy objects on the lid.
• Do not reinstall a liner until the container is fully dry.
• Do not wash or soak the AbsorbX® odor filter.
• Do not install the AbsorbX® filter while it is still inside its sealed pouch.
• Do not attempt to disassemble or repair the motor, hinge, pedal, or electronic components yourself.

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