10 Best Garbage Bin For Kitchen, Expert Picks

Our pick: SONGMICS Trash Can

After two weeks of use, the SONGMICS dual trash can proves to be both stylish and highly functional. Its modern design easily blends into contemporary kitchens, while its dual-compartment setup promotes easy waste separation. The build quality feels durable, and thoughtful features like the soft-close lid and removable inner buckets add convenience to daily use. It’s clear this trash can was designed with both aesthetics and user experience in mind.

Pros

• Modern, clean appearance

• Quiet soft-close lid

• Dual removable inner buckets

• Hands-free pedal operation

Con

• Fingerprints show easily on stainless steel

The SONGMICS Trash Can is a solid addition to any kitchen seeking a cleaner look and smoother waste management. Despite minor cosmetic upkeep, it delivers strong performance and smart design. Overall, a worthwhile investment for functionality and style.

Also great: Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can 

The Amazon Basics Smudge Resistant Rectangular Trash Can offers dependable performance with a straightforward, functional design. During daily use in a home kitchen, it handles regular waste without issue. Its smudge-resistant exterior holds up well to fingerprints, and the soft-close lid adds a touch of refinement. While it doesn’t include dual compartments or high-end extras, it delivers solid value for those who need a durable, no-frills solution.

Pros

• Smudge-resistant stainless steel finish

• Soft-close lid for quiet operation

• Removable inner bucket with handle

• Stay-open lid feature for convenience

Con

• No separate compartments for waste sorting

This trash can from Amazon Basics checks the right boxes for durability, ease of use, and low-maintenance upkeep. While simple in features, its performance and build quality make it a practical choice for home or office use.

Also great: EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter

The EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter trash can delivers on both style and durability. It feels like a premium product, with a clean brushed finish that resists fingerprints and a solid step pedal that operates smoothly. The quiet-close lid and stay-open feature offer real convenience during busy cooking or cleaning sessions. It’s a great fit for households seeking a dependable and attractive trash solution that doesn’t cut corners on quality.

Pros

• Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel

• Soft-close lid with bi-force damper

• Stay-open lid lock

• Elevated inner bucket with handles

Con

• Slightly bulky footprint for smaller spaces

EKO’s Madison model stands out as a refined, high-performing kitchen trash can. Its thoughtful features, durability, and sleek appearance make it well-suited for daily use in a modern home. An excellent choice for those prioritizing quality and convenience.

Source: Amazon

The best garbage can for a kitchen strikes a balance between functionality, size, odor control, and style. For most households, a 13-gallon (50-liter) step can with a hands-free lid is ideal. Brands like Simplehuman, iTouchless, and Rubbermaid are frequently praised for their durability, sleek design, and ease of use.

Look for features like:

• Soft-close lids to prevent slamming

• Fingerprint-resistant finishes for a clean look

• Built-in liners or liner pockets for convenience

• Dual compartments if you want to separate recyclables and trash

If you cook often or have a large family, consider a can with odor-absorbing filters or motion sensor lids to keep things hygienic and fresh.

What is a garbage bin called?

A garbage bin is also commonly referred to as a trash can, waste bin, rubbish bin, or simply a bin—the terminology varies slightly by region. In American English, “trash can” or “garbage can” is the most commonly used term, especially when referring to indoor containers. For outdoor use, people might say trash barrel or garbage container.

Which bin is used to throw kitchen waste?

Kitchen waste—like food scraps, vegetable peels, used paper towels, and food packaging—should go into a general kitchen trash can lined with a strong garbage bag. However, if you compost, you might also use a separate compost bin for organic waste such as fruit peels, coffee grounds, and eggshells.

For a more eco-friendly setup:

• Compost bin: For food scraps and biodegradable waste

• Recycling bin: For clean plastic, glass, paper, and metal

• Trash bin: For all other non-recyclable, non-compostable items

Having these bins clearly labeled and easily accessible can make kitchen cleanup quicker and more sustainable.

What size garbage can for a kitchen?

For most kitchens, a 13-gallon (approximately 50-liter) garbage can is the standard size. It’s large enough to hold a day or two’s worth of trash without being too bulky or taking up too much floor space. It also fits common tall kitchen trash bags.

Here’s a quick guide:

• 8 to 10 gallons: Ideal for smaller kitchens, apartments, or under-sink use

• 13 gallons: Best for average households and daily kitchen use

• 20 gallons or more: Suitable for large families or households that generate more waste

Consider your cooking habits and available space when choosing a size. A garbage can that's too small might require frequent emptying, while one that's too large could attract odor if not emptied regularly.

Finding the right garbage bin for your kitchen might seem like a small detail, but it can make a big difference in how your space looks and functions. Whether you’re after something sleek and stainless for a modern vibe, a hands-free sensor bin for added convenience, or a compact option for tight spaces, there’s a perfect fit out there. The best kitchen trash can is the one that meets your household’s needs, holds up over time, and makes daily clean-up just a little bit easier. Take the time to choose wisely—you’ll be surprised how much you appreciate it every single day.