Buying Guide
How to Buy a Kitchen Trash Can
This short guide covers what to look for when buying a kitchen trash can: the right size, the best styles, essential features to check, where to buy and mistakes to avoid. Use these practical steps to pick a can that fits your space and routine.
Key factors to consider
Think about how you use your kitchen and where the can will sit. Consider capacity, footprint, lid type and how often you empty it. Below are quick questions to answer before you buy
- How much waste does your household produce? Small household: about 30 litre. Family kitchen: 50 litre or larger.
- Do you need recycling sorting? Dual compartment cans save counter or cabinet space.
- Where will it live? Measure height, width and door clearance if it sits under a counter.
- Noise and reliability: look for soft-close lids and durable pedals if the can will be opened many times daily.
Types and capacity options
Choose the style that matches your space and routine. Common options include
- Single-compartment pedal cans: simple, compact and reliable for most kitchens.
- Dual-compartment cans: built-in recycling and waste sorting, often shown as two removable inner bins adding up to around 60 litres total or two 15 litre buckets.
- Slim or rectangular designs: fit narrow spaces and under counters better than round cans.
Must-have features and specifications
Check these features to avoid surprises and get long term value
- Material and finish: stainless steel with a fingerprint resistant or smudge resistant finish cleans easily and resists rust.
- Inner bucket with handles: makes bag changes and cleaning quick.
- Soft-close lid or damper: prevents slamming and reduces noise.
- Pedal durability: look for rated pedals or metal pedals that withstand heavy use; some pedals are tested to many thousands of cycles.
- Stay-open or lid lock: useful when you need the lid to remain open while working.
- Non-slip base: keeps the can stable on tile or hardwood floors.
- Bag compatibility: check internal bucket size and recommended bag sizes to avoid loose or bunching liners.
Where to buy, mistakes to avoid and expert tips
Decide between online convenience and in-store testing. Online gives more selection and deals, but check dimensions, reviews and return policy. In store lets you test pedal feel and lid action. Common mistakes to avoid
- Buying on looks alone without measuring the space or door clearance.
- Choosing a too-small can and emptying it multiple times a day.
- Not checking inner bucket shape and handle placement for easy bag changes.
- Ignoring the mounting or floor stability when the can is narrow or tall.
- Measure first and carry a tape measure when shopping in store.
- Pick a slightly larger capacity than you think you need if you prefer fewer trips to the curb.
- Prefer soft-close lids and inner buckets with handles for day to day convenience.
- Look for models with non-slip feet if your floor is slippery.
- Keep a spare set of compatible liners and check return and warranty policies for mechanical parts.
Final Thoughts
Measure your space, choose the right capacity and prioritise practical features like a soft-close lid and removable inner bucket. Buy online for selection and price but test pedal and lid action in store when possible. These steps will help you pick a kitchen trash can that works reliably and stays tidy.
