10 Best Home Garbage Can, Best budget

Our pick: Home Zone Living 16 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can

After using the Home Zone Living 16 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can for several weeks, I found it to be a thoughtfully designed product that genuinely contributes to a cleaner and more organized kitchen space. With its dual compartments, odor control features, and hands-free operation, it brings convenience to everyday waste management without sacrificing aesthetics or functionality. While it’s not without minor drawbacks, the overall user experience is solid and reliable.

Pros

• Dual-compartment design

• Effective odor control

• Quiet lid mechanism

• Convenient step pedal

Cons

• Slightly bulky for smaller spaces

The Home Zone Living trash can is a smart investment for households that value cleanliness, convenience, and modern design. It performs well in daily use and shows attention to both function and user experience. Overall, it offers great value and utility, especially for those looking to streamline their waste and recycling habits.

Also great: SONGMICS Trash Can, 2 x 8 Gallon (2 x 30 L) Garbage Can

The SONGMICS 2 x 8 Gallon Trash Can strikes a great balance between style and practicality. After testing it over several weeks in a high-traffic kitchen, I found its dual-bin design and solid construction to be especially convenient for households that prioritize both cleanliness and visual appeal. It integrates smoothly into modern kitchen setups, offering a mess-free and user-friendly experience.

Pros

• Sleek and modern design

• Quiet, soft-close lid

• Removable inner buckets

• Hands-free pedal operation

Cons

• Larger footprint may not suit compact kitchens

The SONGMICS dual trash can delivers both form and function, making it a dependable addition to any home kitchen. Its durable build, thoughtful features, and neat appearance justify its place in the mid-to-premium segment of kitchen waste bins. Ideal for users looking to separate trash and recycling without sacrificing kitchen aesthetics.

Also great: Rubbermaid High-Capacity Step-On Trash Can

The Rubbermaid High-Capacity Step-On Trash Can is designed for households or workspaces that generate a larger volume of waste. After using it in a busy kitchen for several weeks, I found its generous capacity and durable construction to be standout features. While it leans more toward function than aesthetics, it performs exceptionally well for what it’s built to do—handle a lot of trash with minimal hassle.

Pros

• Extra-large 19-gallon capacity

• Flexible single or dual-bag use

• LinerLock system for a tidy appearance

• Durable stainless steel foot pedal

Cons

• Basic design lacks premium visual appeal

For users who value capacity, practicality, and low-maintenance waste disposal, the Rubbermaid High-Capacity Step-On Trash Can is a strong performer. It’s not the most stylish option, but its functionality, durability, and ease of use make it ideal for families, shared kitchens, or light commercial settings.

Source: Amazon

Destroying garbage at home doesn’t always mean burning it—in fact, that’s discouraged due to harmful emissions. Instead, the focus is on reducing, separating, and properly handling waste. Here are some practical methods:

• Composting: Food scraps like fruit peels, coffee grounds, and eggshells can be composted in a bin or backyard pile. This turns organic waste into nutrient-rich soil.

• Recycling: Separate plastics, glass, paper, and metals and send them to your local recycling center. Many communities offer curbside pickup.

• Reusing: Before tossing items, consider whether they can be reused. For example, jars can become storage containers, and old T-shirts can be used as cleaning rags.

• Shredding: For sensitive paper documents, shredding is a secure way to destroy them before recycling.

• Proper disposal: For hazardous materials like batteries, electronics, and certain chemicals, take them to a designated drop-off location instead of putting them in the regular trash.

By managing waste smartly, you reduce the volume of garbage and its impact on the environment.

Where is the best place to put a garbage can in the kitchen?

The best spot for a garbage can in the kitchen depends on your layout, but here are a few tips:

• Near the prep area: Keep the can close to where you chop and prepare food so you can easily toss scraps without dripping across the kitchen.

• Under the sink: This is a common location that keeps the bin out of sight. Just make sure there’s enough ventilation to avoid odors.

• Pull-out cabinet: Installing a pull-out trash system in a lower cabinet is sleek and keeps the can hidden. It’s also a great space-saver.

• End of the counter: If you can’t hide the can, place it at the end of a counter for easy access. Choose a style that matches your kitchen décor to keep it visually appealing.

Wherever you place it, make sure it’s easy to reach, especially when your hands are full.

What is a secure lid garbage can?

A secure lid garbage can is one designed to tightly seal the top of the can to keep odors in and pests out. These cans are especially useful in kitchens and outdoor areas. Here’s what to look for:

• Tight-fitting lid: Helps prevent smells from escaping and deters insects or rodents.

• Step pedal or sensor lid: Touchless options like foot pedals or motion sensors are more hygienic and convenient.

• Locking mechanisms: Some cans come with child-proof or pet-proof locks to keep curious hands or paws out.

• Durable materials: Choose cans made from stainless steel or high-quality plastic for better sealing and long-term use.

A good lid not only keeps things clean but also helps maintain a healthier kitchen environment.

How often should you clean garbage cans?

To keep your kitchen fresh and prevent bacteria build-up, you should clean your garbage cans regularly:

• Weekly wipe-down: Rinse and wipe the inside and outside of the can with hot, soapy water once a week—especially if any leaks or spills occur.

• Deep clean monthly: Once a month, take the can outside and give it a deeper clean using a mixture of vinegar and baking soda, or a disinfectant cleaner.

• Use liners: Always line your garbage can with a sturdy bag to reduce direct contact with waste. Replace the liner promptly when full or dirty.

• Dry thoroughly: After washing, let the can dry completely to avoid mold or unpleasant smells.

Keeping your garbage can clean not only improves hygiene but also helps keep pests and odors at bay.

Selecting the best home garbage can is more than just a functional choice—it’s about finding something that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a sleek, touchless model for convenience or a simple yet durable option to get the job done, the top picks recommended by Reddit users offer a wide variety of features to meet different needs. From odor control to space-saving designs, these garbage cans prove that the right one can make household chores more manageable and even a bit more pleasant. No matter your home’s size or style, there’s a garbage can out there that checks all the boxes.