Ever feel like your kitchen just isn’t quite clean enough, even after you’ve tidied up? That hidden mess lurking under your sink might be the culprit. It’s a common problem: finding a trash can that actually fits the small space under your sink, doesn’t smell, and is easy to empty can feel like a treasure hunt with no map.
Choosing the right under-sink trash can can be surprisingly tricky. You want one that’s not too big or too small, easy to clean, and keeps odors contained. But with so many shapes, sizes, and features out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and end up with a bin that just doesn’t work. This can lead to frustration and a less tidy kitchen than you’d hoped for.
But don’t worry! By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly what to look for. We’ll break down the important features and help you find the perfect under-sink trash can that makes your kitchen tidier and your life a little easier. Let’s dive in and find a solution that fits your space and your needs.
Our Top 5 Under Sink Trash Can Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Under Sink Trash Can Detailed Reviews
1. Rubbermaid Undercounter Small Trash Can
Rating: 9.4/10
Tired of messy trash cans that get in the way? The Rubbermaid Undercounter Small Trash Can set is here to help! This 2-pack comes with a blue and black bin, perfect for sorting your trash and recycling. Each can holds 9.4 gallons, giving you plenty of space. They’re designed to fit neatly under your sink, desk, or in a cabinet, making them great for kitchens, bathrooms, or offices.
What We Like:
- The angled opening makes it super easy to toss things in, even when tucked under a counter. It gives you twice the access compared to regular trash cans.
- Having two bins, one black and one blue, is awesome for recycling. You can keep your waste sorted effortlessly.
- The liner cinch keeps your trash bags from slipping down. It’s a small feature that makes a big difference.
- These bins are made from strong, light resin. They have smooth edges, so cleaning them is a breeze.
- They’re made right here in the USA by Rubbermaid, a trusted brand.
- The size, 17″ x 10.9″ x 22″, fits perfectly in tight spaces.
What Could Be Improved:
- While they are lightweight, some users might prefer a heavier bin that feels even more stable.
- The capacity of 9.4 gallons might be a bit small for very busy households that generate a lot of waste.
This Rubbermaid trash can set is a smart and practical solution for keeping your spaces tidy. They are well-made and designed to make your life easier.
2. Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of flimsy trash cans that get dented and look messy? The Rubbermaid Commercial Wastebasket Trash Container is a sturdy, reliable solution for keeping any space tidy. This 41-quart (10.25-gallon) black plastic bin is built to last, making it a smart choice for bedrooms, bathrooms, offices, and even busy commercial areas. Its smart design means it fits neatly under desks, sinks, or inside cabinets, helping you maintain a clean and organized environment.
What We Like:
- It’s made of strong, heavy-duty plastic. This means it won’t get dents, chips, or peel, so it always looks good.
- The rolled edges add extra strength and are easy to wipe clean.
- It’s the right size to fit under most standard desks.
- You can stack these bins to save space when you’re not using them.
- The smooth plastic is super easy to clean.
- It’s made right here in the USA.
- There are different color options and even a recycling version available.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s stackable, the nesting feature for transport could be smoother.
- For very heavy use, a slightly thicker plastic might be ideal.
This Rubbermaid wastebasket offers excellent durability and a clean look for any room. It’s a practical and long-lasting addition to your organization needs.
3. LIONONLY Foldable Trash Can
Rating: 8.6/10
Tired of bulky trash cans taking up precious space? The LIONONLY Foldable Trash Can offers a smart solution for your home. This compact and versatile bin is designed to fit seamlessly into tight spots, making it a fantastic addition to kitchens, bathrooms, and even RVs. Its clever foldable design and multi-functional mounting options make waste disposal a breeze, keeping your living areas tidy and clutter-free.
What We Like:
- The COMPACT DESIGN is a lifesaver for small kitchens and bathrooms. It folds neatly, so it doesn’t get in the way.
- VERSATILE MOUNTING means you can hang it under your sink or on a cabinet door. This keeps your floors clear.
- It’s very DURABLE CONSTRUCTION. The sturdy plastic feels like it will last a long time.
- The PRACTICAL FEATURES, like the flip-top lid, are really handy. It keeps smells contained and looks neater.
- It’s super lightweight, making it easy to move and empty.
- The white and gray colors look clean and modern.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for small spaces, the capacity might be too small for larger families or heavy trash days.
- The hanging mechanism could be a bit more robust for very frequent use or heavier loads.
This LIONONLY trash can is a practical and space-saving choice for anyone looking to maximize their small living areas. It’s a simple yet effective way to manage waste with ease.
4. Rubbermaid Commercial Products Deskside Wastebasket/Trash Can
Rating: 9.2/10
Meet the Rubbermaid Commercial Products Deskside Wastebasket/Trash Can, a 10.25-gallon, gray plastic bin designed to handle your everyday waste needs. This versatile garbage can fits neatly under desks, sinks, and cabinets, making it a practical addition to any home or office space.
What We Like:
- DURABLE: The rolled rims add extra strength, so it won’t easily crack or bend. They also make it simple to wipe clean.
- EFFICIENT DESIGN: This can fits perfectly under standard-height desks, keeping your workspace tidy without getting in the way.
- PLENTY OF OPTIONS: You can choose a recycling version of this bin, and it comes in many different colors to match your style.
- EASY TO CLEAN: A quick wipe is all it takes to keep this trash can looking fresh and clean.
- VERSATILE USE: It’s not just for offices! This bin is great for bedrooms, bathrooms, conference rooms, shops, and many other places.
- SMART STORAGE: The stackable design means you can nest multiple bins together for easy transport and storage when you don’t need them all.
- MADE IN THE USA: Support American manufacturing with this product.
What Could Be Improved:
- The specific dimensions (15.25″ x 11.25″ x 20″) might be a bit large for very small spaces, so measure carefully.
- While durable, being made of plastic means it might not be as heavy-duty as metal options for extreme commercial use.
This Rubbermaid wastebasket offers a smart solution for keeping spaces clean and organized. Its sturdy build and adaptable design make it a reliable choice for a variety of settings.
5. simplehuman 35 Liter / 9.3 Gallon Dual Compartment Under Counter Kitchen Cabinet Pull-Out Recycling Bin and Trash Can
Rating: 9.3/10
Tired of trash cans cluttering your kitchen floor? The simplehuman 35 Liter / 9.3 Gallon Dual Compartment Under Counter Kitchen Cabinet Pull-Out Recycling Bin and Trash Can in Chrome is your solution. This clever bin hides away neatly in your cabinet, making your kitchen look cleaner and more organized. It’s a fantastic way to keep your trash and recyclables sorted without taking up extra space.
What We Like:
- RECYCLE IT. This bin lets you easily separate your trash and recyclables. It’s a smart way to be eco-friendly and save space.
- OUT OF THE CABINET The bin glides completely out of the cabinet. Full-extension tracks make it super easy to reach your trash and recycling buckets.
- IT’S EASY Installing this bin is a breeze. The one-piece track comes already put together, so you can set it up quickly.
- BALL-BEARING TRACKS It slides smoothly on commercial-grade ball-bearing tracks. This means it opens and closes without any sticking.
- EASY-ACCESS HANDLE A big steel handle lets you pull the bin out fast. You won’t have to struggle to get to your trash.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 35-liter capacity might be small for very large families or those who generate a lot of waste.
- While the chrome finish looks sleek, it can show fingerprints and smudges, requiring regular wiping to maintain its shine.
This simplehuman pull-out bin makes recycling and trash management simple and tidy. It’s a great addition to any kitchen looking for a cleaner, more efficient setup.
Finding the Best Under Sink Trash Can: Your Guide to a Tidier Kitchen
Keeping your kitchen clean and organized is much easier with a good under sink trash can. These clever bins hide away your garbage, keeping smells contained and your countertops clear. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? This guide will help you find the perfect fit for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for an under sink trash can, keep these important features in mind.
- Size and Capacity: Measure the space under your sink before you buy. You need a trash can that fits comfortably without blocking pipes or cleaning supplies. Most under sink cans range from 3 to 10 gallons. Think about how much trash your household makes to choose the right size.
- Lid Type: A lid is essential for keeping smells and pests away. Look for different lid styles:
- Swing-Top Lids: These lids open easily with a gentle push. They are simple to use with one hand.
- Lift-Off Lids: These lids come off completely. They offer easy access for emptying the can.
- Hinged Lids: These lids are attached to the can and lift up. They are convenient and keep the lid from getting lost.
- Lids with Handles or Clips: Some lids have special features to keep them securely closed or to attach them to cabinet doors.
- Mounting Options: How will the trash can stay in place?
- Freestanding: These cans just sit on the floor of your cabinet. They are easy to move.
- Wall-Mounted or Cabinet-Mounted: These cans attach to the inside of your cabinet door or wall. This saves floor space and keeps the can from tipping over.
- Ease of Cleaning: You’ll want a trash can that’s simple to wipe down. Smooth surfaces and removable bins make cleaning much easier.
Important Materials
The material of your under sink trash can affects its durability, appearance, and how easy it is to clean.
- Plastic: This is the most common material. It’s lightweight, affordable, and easy to clean. High-quality plastic is durable and won’t crack easily.
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel cans are more expensive but look very sleek and modern. They are also very durable and resist rust and odors. However, they can show fingerprints.
- Metal (other than stainless steel): Some metal cans are coated to prevent rust. They can be a good option, but check for rust resistance.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make an under sink trash can better or worse.
- Durability: A well-made trash can will last longer. Look for sturdy construction and strong hinges if it has a lid. Thicker plastic or good quality metal usually means better durability.
- Odor Control: A good lid is the best defense against smells. Some cans have special features like charcoal filters to help absorb odors.
- Ease of Use: Can you open it easily? Is it simple to empty? If it’s mounted, is it easy to take it down and put it back up? If it’s a hassle to use, you won’t want to use it.
- Stability: A trash can that slides around or tips over is annoying. Look for cans with non-slip bottoms or secure mounting systems.
User Experience and Use Cases
An under sink trash can is designed to make your kitchen life simpler.
- Kitchen Waste: The most common use is for food scraps, packaging, and other kitchen garbage. It keeps your main trash can from filling up too quickly and hides messy items.
- Recycling: Smaller cans can be used for collecting recyclables like paper or plastic bottles under the sink.
- Pet Waste: Some people use them for disposing of pet waste bags before taking them to the main outdoor bin.
- Crafting or Small Projects: When you’re working on crafts or small DIY projects, an under sink can is a handy place to collect scraps.
Choosing the right under sink trash can means a cleaner, more pleasant kitchen. Measure your space, consider the features you need, and pick a material that suits your style and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How do I measure the space under my sink?
A: Measure the width, depth, and height of the cabinet space. Make sure to account for any pipes or cleaning supplies already there.
Q: What is the best material for an under sink trash can?
A: Plastic is a good, affordable choice for most people. Stainless steel is more durable and looks nicer but costs more.
Q: Do under sink trash cans come with lids?
A: Most under sink trash cans come with lids. A lid helps control odors and keeps pests out.
Q: How do I keep my under sink trash can from smelling bad?
A: Use a trash can with a good lid. You can also use baking soda at the bottom of the can or odor-absorbing filters.
Q: Can I mount an under sink trash can to the cabinet door?
A: Yes, many under sink trash cans are designed to be mounted to the inside of a cabinet door. This saves floor space.
Q: How much trash can an under sink trash can hold?
A: They typically hold between 3 and 10 gallons of trash. Choose a size that fits your household’s needs.
Q: Are under sink trash cans easy to clean?
A: Most are easy to clean. Look for smooth surfaces and removable bins for the simplest cleaning.
Q: What if my under sink space is very small?
A: Look for slim or narrow models. Some cans are specifically designed to fit in tight spaces.
Q: Can I use an under sink trash can for recycling?
A: Yes, you can use smaller under sink cans to separate recyclables like paper or plastic.
Q: How do I prevent my under sink trash can from tipping over?
A: Choose a can with a non-slip base or one that mounts securely to the cabinet wall or door.
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 Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!