Is your kitchen under the sink a messy disaster zone? Do you find yourself wrestling with a bulky trash can that barely fits, or maybe one that leaks and smells? You’re not alone! The space under your sink is prime real estate in any kitchen, and keeping it tidy and functional can be a real challenge. Finding the perfect under-sink trash can feels like a treasure hunt, but with so many sizes, shapes, and features, it’s easy to get lost in the options. Choosing the wrong one can lead to frustration, wasted space, and even a less-than-pleasant smell.
But what if there was a way to conquer that under-sink chaos and make your kitchen work better for you? In this post, we’re diving deep into the world of under-sink trash cans. We’ll explore what makes a great one, what to look for, and how to pick the best fit for your unique needs. Get ready to transform that cluttered corner into an organized, efficient space that makes everyday life a little bit easier.
Our Top 5 Under Sink Trash Can Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Under Sink Trash Can Detailed Reviews
1. Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container
Rating: 9.4/10
Tired of flimsy trash cans that fall apart? The Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container is here to save the day! This 41-quart, 10.25-gallon black plastic bin is built tough for any room. Its smart design means it fits perfectly under desks, sinks, and cabinets, making it a great choice for keeping your space tidy.
What We Like:
- It’s made of super strong plastic. This means it won’t get dents, chips, or peel, so it always looks good.
- The rolled edges make it extra strong and simple to wipe clean.
- It’s the perfect size to slide under most desks.
- You can stack these cans on top of each other. This makes them easy to move around and store when you’re not using them.
- Cleaning is a breeze thanks to its smooth plastic.
- It’s made right here in the USA!
- You can even get a recycling version and choose from different colors.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for many uses, some users might find the black color a bit plain if they are looking for something more decorative.
- For very heavy-duty industrial use, a metal bin might be preferred, though this plastic option is very robust for everyday needs.
This Rubbermaid wastebasket is a reliable and practical choice for any home or office. It’s built to last and makes trash disposal simple and tidy.
2. Rubbermaid Undercounter Small Trash Can
Rating: 9.3/10
Tired of messy trash cans that don’t fit where you need them? The Rubbermaid Undercounter Small Trash Can, 2 Pack, is here to help! These blue and black bins are designed to make sorting waste and recycling a breeze. With a generous 9.4-gallon capacity, they’re perfect for under sinks, desks, or inside cabinets in your kitchen, bathroom, or office. You get two bins in this pack, making it easy to set up a dual-stream system for all your needs.
What We Like:
- Easy Access: The angled opening makes it super simple to toss things in, even in tight spaces under counters.
- Smart Sorting: The blue and black colors clearly show which bin is for recycling and which is for trash.
- Secure Bags: The liner cinch holds your trash bags tightly in place, so they won’t slip down.
- Built to Last: Made from strong, lightweight resin with smooth edges, these bins are easy to wipe clean and are built tough.
- American Made: Rubbermaid is a trusted brand, and these bins are proudly manufactured in the USA.
What Could Be Improved:
- Size for Some: While “small” is in the name, some users might find the 17″ height a bit too tall for very low under-sink cabinets.
- Color Options: The blue and black color scheme is functional, but a wider variety of color choices could appeal to more people.
If you’re looking for a practical and durable solution for waste and recycling, these Rubbermaid bins are a fantastic choice. They help keep your spaces tidy and make sorting simple.
3. Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can
Rating: 8.5/10
Meet the Rubbermaid Small Kitchen Bathroom Trash Can, a 9-gallon white waste basket that’s built tough for busy homes and offices. This bin is designed to fit just about anywhere, from under your kitchen sink to a tight spot next to your toilet. Its clean white color looks good in any room, and its simple design makes it super easy to use and keep clean.
What We Like:
- LARGE CAPACITY: The 9-gallon size is just right for bathrooms, offices, and even under kitchen sinks. It holds a good amount of trash without being too big.
- TOUGH RIM: The reinforced rim is strong. It helps the bin keep its shape, even with daily use, so it always looks neat.
- EASY TO CLEAN: The inside of the bin is smooth. This means spills and messes wipe away easily, saving you time and effort.
- RECTANGULAR SHAPE: Its smart rectangular shape allows it to hold a lot while still fitting into narrow spaces, like next to a toilet or inside a cabinet.
- MADE IN USA: This trash can is proudly made right here in the USA, in Winfield, Kansas.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the bin is great for many uses, it doesn’t come with a lid, which some users might prefer.
- The white color, while classic, can show dirt more easily than darker colors.
This Rubbermaid trash can is a reliable choice for managing waste in smaller spaces. It offers a good balance of capacity, durability, and easy maintenance.
4. Spaces Tools Pull Out Trash Can Under Cabinet Shelf – Under Sink Trash Can Pull Out Slider for 30–40 Quart Cans Up to 125 lb – Cabinet Trash Can Pull Out Kit w/Garbage Bag Holder – (Can Not Included)
Rating: 9.2/10
Tired of a cluttered kitchen and a smelly trash can in plain sight? The Spaces Tools Pull Out Trash Can Under Cabinet Shelf is here to rescue your kitchen from chaos. This clever slider system tucks your trash bin neatly away under your sink, making your kitchen look tidier and more organized. It’s designed for easy access, so throwing away garbage becomes a breeze, not a chore. Plus, it even comes with a handy trash bag holder, keeping your spare bags right where you need them.
What We Like:
- It makes your kitchen look super tidy by hiding the trash can.
- You can easily pull the trash can out to use it.
- It has a special spot to hold up to 4 rolls of trash bags.
- Setting it up is quick and easy with all the parts and instructions included.
- It’s made of strong steel and can hold a lot of weight, up to 125 pounds!
- The trash can slides in and out smoothly and quietly.
What Could Be Improved:
- You need to measure your cabinet first to make sure it fits.
- The trash can itself is not included, so you have to buy that separately.
This pull-out trash can system is a fantastic way to upgrade your kitchen organization and keep things neat and clean. It’s a simple solution for a common kitchen problem.
5. simplehuman 35 Liter / 9.3 Gallon Dual Compartment Under Counter Kitchen Cabinet Pull-Out Recycling Bin and Trash Can
Rating: 9.4/10
Tired of messy kitchen bins? The simplehuman 35 Liter / 9.3 Gallon Dual Compartment Under Counter Kitchen Cabinet Pull-Out Recycling Bin and Trash Can in Chrome offers a smart solution. This clever bin lets you easily sort your trash and recyclables, making eco-friendly living more convenient and space-saving. It tucks away neatly under your cabinet, keeping your kitchen looking tidy.
What We Like:
- RECYCLE IT. Sorting trash and recyclables is simple and neat. It’s a very efficient way to be eco-friendly.
- OUT OF THE CABINET. The bin slides completely out of the cabinet. This makes it super easy to get to your bins.
- IT’S EASY. Installing the track is a breeze. It comes as one piece and is ready to go.
- BALL-BEARING TRACKS. The bin moves smoothly on high-quality ball-bearing tracks. It glides like a dream.
- EASY-ACCESS HANDLE. A large steel handle lets you pull the bin out fast. No more struggling!
What Could Be Improved:
- The 35-liter capacity might be a bit small for larger families or heavy recyclers.
- While the chrome finish looks great, it can show fingerprints and smudges, requiring frequent wiping.
This simplehuman pull-out bin makes managing your kitchen waste a breeze. It’s a fantastic upgrade for any kitchen that values organization and sustainability.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your Under-Sink Space Saver
Tired of that bulky trash can taking up precious floor space? An under-sink trash can is your secret weapon for a tidier kitchen or bathroom. These clever bins tuck away neatly, keeping your space looking clean and organized. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? This guide will help you find the perfect fit.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for an under-sink trash can, keep these important features in mind:
- Size and Capacity: Measure your under-sink space carefully. You need a can that fits without bumping into pipes or cleaning supplies. Think about how much trash you create. A small household might only need a 3-5 gallon can, while a busy family could need 7-10 gallons.
- Lid Type: Some cans have simple lids, while others have swing-tops or hands-free foot pedals. A lid keeps odors in and pests out. Swing-tops are easy to use. Foot pedals are great when your hands are full.
- Mounting Options: Many under-sink cans are designed to sit on the floor. Others can be mounted to the cabinet door or the side of the cabinet. Mounting saves even more space and keeps the can from tipping over.
- Handle and Portability: Even though it stays under the sink, you’ll still need to empty it. A sturdy handle makes carrying the can to your main trash bin much easier.
- Slim Design: Look for cans with a slim or rectangular shape. These fit better in narrow spaces.
Important Materials
The material of your under-sink trash can affects its durability and how easy it is to clean.
- Plastic: Most under-sink cans are made of plastic. It’s lightweight, affordable, and easy to wipe clean. Look for sturdy, BPA-free plastic for safety.
- Stainless Steel: Some higher-end models use stainless steel. This is very durable and looks sleek. Stainless steel cans can be more expensive and might show fingerprints.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
A few things make an under-sink trash can great, while others can make it a hassle.
What Makes a Trash Can Great:
- Sturdy Construction: A well-made can won’t crack or warp easily.
- Smooth Edges: No sharp bits that could snag bags or cut you.
- Secure Lid Fit: A lid that closes tightly seals in odors.
- Easy to Clean Surfaces: Non-porous materials are best.
What Can Make it Less Than Ideal:
- Flimsy Plastic: Thin plastic can break or bend.
- Poorly Fitting Lid: A loose lid lets smells escape.
- Difficult to Access: If it’s hard to pull out or empty, you won’t want to use it.
User Experience and Use Cases
An under-sink trash can is a game-changer for small kitchens, RVs, apartments, or any place where space is limited. People love them because they:
- Keep Kitchens Tidy: They hide trash from view, making your kitchen look neat.
- Help with Sorting: Some models come with dividers, so you can easily separate recycling from regular trash.
- Reduce Odors: A good lid traps smells, keeping your living area fresh.
- Prevent Accidents: Mounting a can to the door keeps it from being knocked over by pets or kids.
Think about where you’ll use it most. A kitchen might need a larger capacity and a good odor-blocking lid. A bathroom might only need a small, discreet bin.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main Key Features to look for?
A: The main Key Features are size and capacity, lid type, mounting options, handle and portability, and a slim design.
Q: What materials are commonly used for under-sink trash cans?
A: The most common materials are plastic and stainless steel.
Q: How do I measure my under-sink space?
A: Measure the width, depth, and height of the space where you plan to put the trash can. Don’t forget to account for pipes and any other obstacles.
Q: What is the best lid type for an under-sink trash can?
A: The best lid type depends on your preference. Swing-tops are convenient, and foot pedals are great for hands-free use. A tight-fitting lid is important for odor control.
Q: Can I mount an under-sink trash can to my cabinet door?
A: Yes, many under-sink trash cans are designed to be mounted to cabinet doors or the sides of cabinets. This helps save floor space.
Q: How do I clean an under-sink trash can?
A: Most plastic and stainless steel cans can be cleaned with soap and water. Wipe them down regularly to keep them fresh.
Q: What size trash can is best for a small kitchen?
A: For a small kitchen, a 3-5 gallon trash can is usually a good starting point. Measure your space to be sure.
Q: Will an under-sink trash can help with pet messes?
A: Yes, a trash can with a secure lid can help prevent pets from getting into the trash and making a mess.
Q: Are there under-sink trash cans with dividers for recycling?
A: Yes, some models come with dividers, allowing you to sort your trash and recycling right under your sink.
Q: How much does a good under-sink trash can typically cost?
A: Prices vary, but you can find decent plastic under-sink trash cans for $15-$30. More durable or feature-rich models, like stainless steel or those with mounting kits, might cost $30-$60 or more.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!