Choosing The Perfect Kitchen Trash Can

Selecting the best kitchen trash can for your home requires some thought. The right trash can keeps odors at bay, fits your space, and makes taking out the garbage a breeze. With so many sizes, features, and styles available, how do you choose?

Read on for tips to find the ideal can for your needs and decor.

Consider the Size and Capacity You Need

One of the first things to establish is what size trash can makes sense for your household. Standard kitchen trash cans range from 6 gallons (great for apartments) up to 35 gallons (ideal for large families). Here are some typical sizes to consider:

• 6-10 gallons: Best for 1-2 people
• 12-16 gallons: Ideal for 2-3 people
• 20-30 gallons: Great for 4 or more people

Take measurements of the area where you plan to put the can, like under the sink or in a pantry. Make sure to allow space for the lid to open fully when deciding on a size.

Estimate your daily trash output as well. If you cook a lot or have a busy household, opt for a larger gallon capacity. Cans around 13 gallons are a versatile mid-size choice suitable for most kitchens.

Consider Available Space and Usage

Make sure to measure the area where you will place your kitchen trash can, like under the cabinet or in a pantry. Allow enough clearance for the lid to fully open without obstruction. This ensures you can easily deposit trash and Won't have difficulty removing filled bags.

Think about your typical daily trash volume as well. Busy cooks and larger families tend to fill up cans faster. Cans with a 20-30 gallon capacity accommodate more trash. Those with less frequent usage can opt for a smaller 6-13 gallon size. The 13 gallon range is a versatile medium size suitable for most needs.

Select a Durable and Easy to Clean Material

Kitchen trash cans come in a variety of materials, each with pros and cons. Consider how well each withstands messes, stains, and wear and tear.

Plastic

Plastic is affordable and comes in many colors. Drawbacks are it can show scratches over time and absorb odors. Look for heavy duty plastic if choosing this material.

Metal

Stainless steel resists odor absorption and is easy to clean. Some cans feature a powder coated steel that is rust resistant. Metal tends to be more durable but pricier.

Ceramic

Ceramic is attractive but the heaviest option. It won't scratch easily but can chip or crack if dropped. Glazed ceramic repels stains well.

See if a can has antimicrobial properties or odor blocking technologies infused into the material. This helps reduce bacteria growth and contain smells.

Consider Convenient Features

Today's kitchen trash cans incorporate features to make taking out the trash almost enjoyable. Here are some popular options:

Motion Sensor Lids

Hands-free sensor lids open automatically when you approach, very convenient when hands are full.

Double Compartments

Cans with 2 compartments allow separating trash and recycling in one unit.

Soft-Close Lids

Hydraulic hinges gently close the lid instead of loudly slamming down.

Customizable Exterior Wraps

Personalize with photos or artwork on stainless wraps that adhere to the can exterior.

Locking Lids

Lids that lock with a key keep pets or little ones out of the trash.

High tech features like motion sensors and soft-close lids add convenience but cost more. Decide which innovations would be most useful for your household.

Select a Style That Fits Your Decor

Today's kitchen trash cans let you make a style statement while taking out the garbage. Consider options like:

• Modern and minimalist
• Farmhouse or rustic
• Retro
• Classic

Look for colors and materials that coordinate with your existing kitchen decor. Or make the can a focal point with a bold color or patterned wrap.

For a unified look, choose a can that matches the finish of your kitchen hardware and appliances. A custom wrap lets you change up the style down the road.

Customize With Wraps, Stencils and More

Personalize a stainless steel or plastic trash can with:

• Removable wraps featuring photos, artwork or patterns
• Painted stencils
• Monogrammed initials or messages

Prioritize Easy Bag Changes and Removal

Look for a kitchen trash can focused on simple usage and maintenance. Key features that make trash duty easier include:

• Bag tuck or lift out liner to hide trash
• Inner bucket that lifts out for fast bag changes
• Non-skid base to stay put when emptying
• Step pedal operation to open lid hands-free

A removable inner liner speeds up bag changes. Bins with non-skid bottoms Won't slip around or tip as you take out a loaded bag. Convenient step pedals let you open the lid without dirtying the handle.

Prioritize Removable Liners and Step Pedals

Trash cans with removable inner buckets and step pedals streamline the process of taking out the garbage. The inner liner allows you to quickly lift out a loaded bag without getting dirty. Step pedals allow hands-free lid opening so you Won't transfer germs from the handle onto the rest of the can.

Compare Prices for Your Budget

You can find kitchen trash cans at a wide range of price points. Here are average prices for different can materials and features:

• Basic plastic: $20
• Stainless steel: $50 - $150
• Ceramic: $90 - $180
• Motion sensor: +$50 extra
• Soft-close lid: +$30 extra

Plastic is the most budget friendly, followed by powder coated steel cans. Stainless steel and ceramic tend to cost more but are quite durable. Added features like sensor lids increase the price but also the convenience.

Find Sales on Quality Brands

Even designer kitchen trash cans go on sale occasionally. Watch for deals on top brands like Simplehuman, Umbra, and iTouchless. Sign up for brand emails to receive notice about discounts and sales.

Top-Rated Kitchen Trash Can Picks

Ready to choose your perfect kitchen trash can? Here are some top options to consider across various style and budget categories:

Rubbermaid Commercial Step-On Can

A sturdy plastic pick with heavy duty liner and foot pedal.

simplehuman Rectangular Step Can

This sleek stainless steel style has an inner liner and step pedal operation.

iTouchless Deodorizer Can

Equipped with odor control and sensor activated lid.

Umbra Venti Can

Contemporary steel trash can with fingerprint-proof finish.

Rev-A-Shelf Pull Out Can

A cabinet-mounted can with slide out buckets for easy access.

Check manufacturer websites for full product details, dimensions, and current pricing. Read reviews to learn why customers love these kitchen helpers.

Picking the perfect kitchen trash can involves a few key steps. First, measure your space and estimate capacity needs. Next, select a durable, easy to clean material that fits your style. Prioritize convenient features like step pedals, liners, and hands-free lids that simplify use. Compare options across different brands and prices. The right trash can makes taking out the garbage practically painless.

You are sure to find the ideal kitchen trash can with so many sizes and materials. Keep odor control, durability, and easy maintenance top of mind. And don't be afraid to add a little style when choosing the perfect can for your space. Just follow our tips to select a can that makes trash duty a breeze.