10 Best Dual Bin, Best Models

Our pick: simplehuman 40 Liter 

The simplehuman 40 Liter dual-compartment trash and recycling can delivers a high level of convenience and smart engineering in a sleek, modern design. After several weeks of daily use in a busy household kitchen, it has proven to be a practical and reliable addition for managing waste and recyclables efficiently. The butterfly lid design allows easy access even under low countertops, and the unit’s overall build quality feels premium. While it's on the pricier side, its performance justifies the investment for those seeking long-term durability and thoughtful functionality in a trash can.

Pros

• Space-saving dual compartments

• Smooth and silent lid operation

• Durable steel pedal mechanism

• Smudge-resistant stainless steel finish

Con

• High price point

The simplehuman 40 Liter dual-compartment can stands out for its smart design and user-friendly features. It’s particularly well-suited for those looking to streamline recycling in a compact space without compromising on style or performance. Overall, it’s a high-quality product that delivers on its promises.

Also great: simplehuman 58 Liter

The simplehuman 58 Liter dual-compartment trash can impresses with its innovative liner rim system and overall streamlined functionality. After using it consistently in a high-traffic kitchen, the can proves to be more than just a stylish accessory—it’s a well-engineered solution for efficient waste management. The dual compartments are spacious enough for families, and the built-in liner pocket is a subtle yet incredibly useful touch that simplifies daily maintenance. Its bucketless design maximizes internal volume while keeping the aesthetic clean and modern.

Pros

• Convenient liner rim system

• Integrated liner storage and dispenser

• Spacious dual compartments

• Easy-to-clean interior design

Con

• Premium price ta

The simplehuman 58 Liter can is thoughtfully designed for users who value both function and form. It minimizes hassle, saves space, and elevates a mundane task with features that make a noticeable difference. While it requires a larger upfront investment, the user experience and durability make it a smart long-term choice.

Also great: EKO EcoCasa II 36L+24L Dual Trash Can

The EKO EcoCasa II 36L+24L dual compartment trash can delivers solid performance with a no-fuss design ideal for modern kitchens. After several weeks of use, it stands out for its sturdy construction and practicality. The removable, color-coded buckets make sorting trash and recycling straightforward, and the rectangular shape allows it to sit flush against a wall, maximizing space. While it may not have the same high-end features as some premium models, it performs well and looks good doing it.

Pros

• Two removable, color-coded inner bins

• Smudge-resistant stainless steel exterior

• Space-efficient rectangular shape

• High-durability foot pedal

Con

• Lacks advanced features like liner storage

The EKO EcoCasa II is a dependable and attractive solution for households that want to separate trash and recycling without sacrificing space or style. It offers good value, strong build quality, and essential functionality in a sleek, modern package.

Source: Amazon

The ideal kitchen bin size depends on your household size and how often you take out the trash. For most average households, a 13-gallon (about 50-liter) bin is a popular choice—it’s large enough to hold daily waste without overflowing and fits well in standard kitchen spaces.

If you cook often or generate a lot of food scraps, you might consider a slightly larger bin, around 16–20 gallons, especially if you don’t want to take out the trash every day. For smaller kitchens or apartments, a 7–10 gallon bin may be more space-efficient and encourage more frequent emptying, which helps with odor control.

Tip: Look for bins with features like a lid that seals tightly, foot pedal operation, or built-in odor filters to make daily use more convenient.

How do I separate two recycle bins?

Separating your recycling bins is simple and makes a big difference in how efficiently your waste is processed. Most households separate recyclables into two main categories:

• Dry recyclables: Items like paper, cardboard, plastic bottles, cans, and glass jars.

• Organic or compostables: Food scraps, coffee grounds, and garden waste if your city supports composting.

You can use two labeled bins or color-coded containers—for example, blue for recyclables and green for compost. If space is limited, opt for a dual-compartment recycling bin, which keeps items separate in one unit.

Labeling is key! Make it easy for everyone in your household to know what goes where. You might also keep a small printout or chart nearby listing common do’s and don’ts for each bin.

What size bin for two people?

For a two-person household, a 7–10 gallon bin is usually enough for daily kitchen waste, especially if you take out the trash regularly. However, if you cook often or want to reduce trips to the outside bin, you might prefer a 13-gallon bin, which offers more flexibility.

When it comes to recycling, two smaller bins (around 5–7 gallons each) can handle paper/plastic and organic waste effectively. The goal is to balance capacity with the amount of space you have and your lifestyle habits.

Keep in mind: A slightly larger bin isn’t a bad idea—it gives you a little more leeway, especially when entertaining guests.

What are the three types of bins?

Most modern waste systems organize bins into three main categories to encourage proper sorting and reduce landfill waste:

1. General Waste Bin:
   For non-recyclable items like chip bags, broken glass, or used tissues. Usually color-coded black or gray.

2. Recycling Bin:
   For clean paper, cardboard, metal, glass, and plastic containers. Often labeled with a recycling symbol and colored blue.

3. Compost or Organic Waste Bin:
   For food scraps, coffee grounds, eggshells, and sometimes yard trimmings. Typically colored green or brown depending on your local waste service.

Having all three types helps you manage waste responsibly and comply with most municipal recycling programs. If your local area doesn't yet support composting, you can still use a compost bin for gardening or indoor compost systems.

After comparing the top options on the market, it's clear that the best dual bin comes down to functionality, build quality, and how well it fits your space and lifestyle. Whether you're after a sleek stainless steel model for your kitchen or a more compact version for tighter areas, there’s a dual bin out there that checks all the right boxes. Investing in one not only helps keep your waste and recycling organized—it also makes everyday cleanup a whole lot easier. Ultimately, the best choice is the one that simplifies your routine without sacrificing style or convenience.