Finding the right kitchen cabinet for trash and recycle can completely transform how your kitchen looks and functions. Let’s be honest — nobody wants ugly trash cans sitting out in the open, but you also don’t want to sacrifice convenience. Whether you’re working with a tiny apartment kitchen or a spacious open-concept layout, there’s a perfect hidden or dual-compartment solution out there for you. We’ve rounded up the top 10 options that balance style, capacity, and smart recycling features so you can keep your kitchen clean and clutter-free without breaking the bank.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Best Kitchen Cabinet For Trash And Recycle Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Rubbermaid 9.4-Gallon Undercounter Trash Can 2 Pack for Recycling and Waste, Fits Under Sink
If you’re looking for a simple, no-fuss way to hide trash and recycling under your sink, this Rubbermaid 2-pack is hard to beat. The angled opening gives you twice the access compared to standard wastebaskets, which makes a real difference when you’re trying to toss something in quickly. Plus, having two color-coded bins — black for trash and blue for recycling — keeps things organized without any extra effort.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Angled opening provides 2X more access under counters than traditional wastebaskets
- ✓ Dual-stream solution with black and blue containers for waste and recycling
- ✓ Functional liner cinch secures standard 13-gallon trash bags in place
- ✓ Compact dimensions (17″ x 10.9″ x 22″) fit neatly under most kitchen sinks
- ✓ Durable plastic construction that’s easy to clean and built to last
Why We Recommend It
This set nails the basics. You get two sturdy bins that slide right under your sink, and the color-coding makes recycling feel effortless. The liner cinch is a small detail that saves a lot of frustration — no more bags slipping down into the can every time you toss something in. For the price, it’s genuinely one of the best values out there.
Best For
Anyone who wants an affordable, no-installation-needed solution for under-sink trash and recycling. Great for apartments, small kitchens, or anyone who just wants to get organized fast.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value as a two-pack with color-coded bins
- Angled design maximizes access in tight under-sink spaces
- Liner cinch keeps bags secure and out of sight
- Lightweight yet durable construction
Cons:
- 9.4-gallon capacity may be small for larger families
- No lid or foot pedal — fully open design
- Plastic material doesn’t match high-end kitchen aesthetics
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “These fit perfectly under my kitchen sink and the angled opening is a game changer. I use the blue one for recycling and the black one for trash — so simple. The bags stay in place thanks to the cinch, which was always my problem with other bins.”
Customer Review: “Bought these for my apartment and they’re exactly what I needed. They’re not fancy, but they do the job. The two-pack is a great deal and they slide in and out easily. Wish they were a gallon or two bigger, but for a small household they work great.”
2. Home Zone Living 13 Gallon Dual Compartment Kitchen Trash Can, Stainless Steel Slim Fit with Soft-Close Lid
This Home Zone Living bin is the one I’d put in my own kitchen if I had to pick just one. The slim stainless steel design looks sharp next to appliances, and the dual compartments mean you can sort trash and recycling without needing two separate bins eating up floor space. The soft-close lid is a nice touch — no more slamming lids waking up the household at midnight.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Dual interior compartments for easy waste and recycling sorting in one unit
- ✓ Slim, tall, narrow body fits between cabinets or in tight corners
- ✓ Brushed stainless steel finish resists fingerprints and matches modern kitchens
- ✓ Integrated rubber bag tuck bands keep trash bags secure and hidden
- ✓ Soft-close lid for quiet, controlled closure
Why We Recommend It
It strikes a great balance between form and function. The slim profile is perfect for kitchens where every inch counts, and the stainless steel exterior actually looks like it belongs in a nice kitchen — not like an afterthought. The bag tuck bands are one of those features you don’t think about until you’ve dealt with a bag that keeps slipping down.
Best For
Homeowners who want a freestanding dual-compartment bin that looks good in an open kitchen. Ideal for couples or small families who recycle regularly and want everything in one sleek unit.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Slim design fits in tight spaces where wider bins won’t
- Stainless steel finish looks premium and resists fingerprints
- Bag tuck bands prevent messy bag slippage
- Soft-close lid eliminates noise
Cons:
- 13-gallon total capacity is split between two compartments, so each side is relatively small
- No foot pedal — requires hand operation
- Interior bins can be tricky to remove and clean
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This trash can looks so much better than our old plastic one. It sits between the fridge and the counter and fits perfectly. The soft-close lid is amazing — my kids used to slam the old one and it drove me crazy. The dual compartments make recycling so much easier.”
Customer Review: “Love the slim design and the stainless steel looks great. My only complaint is that each compartment is only about 6 gallons, so we empty it more often than our old single bin. But honestly, it’s worth it for how much better the kitchen looks.”
3. SIMPLI-MAGIC 60 Liter Dual Compartment Hands-Free Kitchen Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel with Soft-Close Lid
If you want hands-free convenience without spending a fortune, the SIMPLI-MAGIC 60-liter bin delivers. The foot pedal is sturdy enough to handle daily use, and the color-coded liners (green for recycling, black for trash) make sorting waste almost automatic. It’s a solid pick for anyone who wants a no-nonsense dual-compartment bin that gets the job done.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Color-coded liners — green (30L) for recycling and black (30L) for waste
- ✓ Hands-free stainless steel foot pedal for hygienic, touch-free use
- ✓ Quiet soft-close lid reduces noise during operation
- ✓ Extended open lid lock keeps the lid propped for longer tasks
- ✓ 60-liter total capacity with equal split between compartments
Why We Recommend It
The foot pedal alone makes this worth considering — when your hands are covered in raw chicken juice or sticky sauce, the last thing you want is to touch a trash can lid. The color-coded liners are a smart addition that takes the guesswork out of recycling. And for the price point, the build quality is genuinely impressive.
Best For
Budget-conscious shoppers who still want hands-free operation and dual-compartment recycling. Great for busy families who generate a lot of both trash and recyclables.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Foot pedal is responsive and built to last
- Color-coded liners simplify recycling sorting
- Lid lock feature is handy during food prep or cleaning
- Excellent value for a hands-free stainless steel bin
Cons:
- Foot pedal mechanism may require occasional tightening
- Plastic inner buckets feel less premium than the steel exterior
- 60 liters total means each compartment is only about 30 liters
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “For the price, this is a steal. The foot pedal works great and the soft-close lid is surprisingly quiet. I love that it comes with the green and black liners — my wife and I actually stick to recycling now because it’s so easy to separate.”
Customer Review: “We’ve had this for about 6 months and it’s held up really well. The pedal still works smoothly and the lid closes gently. It’s not the fanciest bin out there, but it does everything it promises. Wish the inner buckets were a bit sturdier, but no real complaints.”
4. Pull Out Double 9 Gallon Under Cabinet Trash Can Rack, Heavy Duty Chrome Sliding Organizer for Kitchen Cabinets
This pull-out rack is a clever way to turn a dead cabinet into a hidden trash and recycling station. The heavy-duty chrome frame glides smoothly on its track, and it holds two 9-gallon bins side by side. It’s the kind of solution you don’t realize you need until you have it — then you wonder how you ever lived without it.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Double waste bin system holds two separate containers for trash and recycling
- ✓ Heavy-duty chrome sliding frame with smooth ball-bearing gliders
- ✓ Fits cabinets measuring at least 17.75″ W x 21.25″ D x 15.25″ H
- ✓ Relatively straightforward installation with included hardware
- ✓ Keeps trash completely hidden inside the cabinet
Why We Recommend It
If you have the cabinet space, this is one of the cleanest ways to handle kitchen waste. Everything stays hidden behind a cabinet door, and the pull-out motion is smooth and satisfying. It’s especially great for open kitchens where you don’t want any trash visible. The chrome construction feels solid and should hold up well over time.
Best For
Homeowners with standard-sized lower cabinets who want to completely hide their trash and recycling. Perfect for anyone renovating their kitchen or looking to maximize under-cabinet storage.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Completely conceals trash and recycling inside cabinet
- Smooth sliding mechanism with quality ball bearings
- Sturdy chrome construction supports full bins without sagging
- Dual-bin setup encourages recycling habits
Cons:
- Requires specific cabinet dimensions — won’t fit all kitchens
- Trash cans not included, so that’s an additional purchase
- Installation requires some basic tools and DIY confidence
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Installed this in about 30 minutes and it works like a charm. The slide is smooth and the frame feels really solid. I use one side for trash and one for recycling. Best part is nobody can even tell there’s trash in my kitchen.”
Customer Review: “Make sure you measure your cabinet before buying — mine was just barely big enough. But once installed, it’s great. The bins slide out easily even when full. I just wish the cans came with it, but that’s a minor thing.”
5. Step N’Sort 43L Slim Dual Recycling Bin, Space Saving Stainless Steel Kitchen Trash Can with Soft Close Lid
Living in a small kitchen? The Step N’Sort 43L is designed specifically for tight spaces where a regular bin just won’t fit. It slides neatly beside cabinets or into narrow gaps, and the dual removable buckets make sorting trash and recycling dead simple. The foot pedal and soft-close lid add a layer of convenience that you wouldn’t expect at this size.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Ultra-slim profile designed for small kitchens, flats, and narrow spaces
- ✓ 43L total capacity with two removable 21.5L inner buckets
- ✓ Hands-free foot pedal with quiet soft-close lid
- ✓ Stainless steel exterior resists fingerprints and looks clean
- ✓ Removable buckets make emptying and cleaning hassle-free
Why We Recommend It
This bin proves you don’t have to sacrifice features for a smaller footprint. The foot pedal works well, the lid closes quietly, and the removable buckets are genuinely easy to pull out and clean. If your kitchen is on the smaller side, this is probably the best dual-compartment option you’ll find that doesn’t eat up precious floor space.
Best For
Anyone with a small or galley-style kitchen who needs a compact dual-compartment bin. Also great for office break rooms, studio apartments, or anywhere space is at a premium.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Slim design fits where standard bins simply can’t
- Foot pedal and soft-close lid add convenience
- Removable inner buckets are easy to clean
- Stainless steel finish looks modern and clean
Cons:
- 43L total capacity may require frequent emptying for larger households
- Slim shape means taller items like pizza boxes may not fit easily
- Foot pedal can feel slightly wobbly on uneven floors
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This fits in the tiny gap between my fridge and the wall that I thought was useless. It’s amazing how much space it saves. The foot pedal is responsive and the buckets slide out easily for emptying. Perfect for my small apartment kitchen.”
Customer Review: “I was skeptical about the capacity but it actually holds more than I expected. The slim design is the real selling point — it tucks away perfectly. The soft-close lid is a nice bonus. Only downside is we empty it every other day with four people in the house.”
6. Home Zone Living 15 Gallon Pull Out Dual Kitchen Trash Can, Under Sink In-Cabinet Design for Recycling
This Home Zone Living pull-out system takes the in-cabinet trash concept and makes it feel premium. The ball-bearing gliders are buttery smooth, the dual compartments keep waste and recycling separate, and the whole thing stays completely hidden behind your cabinet door. It’s the kind of upgrade that makes your kitchen feel more expensive than it actually is.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Fully concealed in-cabinet design keeps trash hidden from view
- ✓ Dual compartments for separate waste and recycling bins
- ✓ Smooth ball-bearing gliders for effortless pull-out access
- ✓ Integrated handle for easy sliding in and out
- ✓ 15-gallon total capacity split between two compartments
Why We Recommend It
The build quality here is a step above most pull-out systems. The gliders feel like they belong in a high-end kitchen, and the hidden design means your kitchen always looks clean. If you’re someone who hates seeing trash cans — even nice ones — this is the solution you’ve been looking for.
Best For
Homeowners who want a built-in, hidden trash and recycling solution. Ideal for those with standard under-sink cabinets who are comfortable with a bit of installation.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Completely hidden design keeps kitchen looking pristine
- Smooth ball-bearing gliders feel premium and durable
- Dual compartments simplify recycling
- Sturdy construction handles full bins without issue
Cons:
- Requires under-sink cabinet space and some installation effort
- Trash cans not included in the package
- 15-gallon capacity may be limiting for larger families
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This transformed my under-sink cabinet. The slide is incredibly smooth — my wife comments on it every time she uses it. Having two separate bins for trash and recycling right inside the cabinet is so convenient. Installation took about 20 minutes.”
Customer Review: “Really happy with this purchase. The quality is obvious from the moment you pull it out of the box. The gliders are smooth and quiet. My only wish is that it came with the actual trash cans, but that’s a minor gripe for an otherwise excellent product.”
7. Function Home 13 Gallon Wood Trash Can Cabinet, Freestanding Dog Proof Farmhouse Trash Bin with Lid
If you love that farmhouse aesthetic, the Function Home wood trash cabinet is a total win. It looks like a piece of furniture, not a trash can. The inner metal ring holds a standard 13-gallon bag securely, and the lid keeps everything — and curious pets — out. It’s the kind of product that makes guests ask, “Where’s your trash can?” because they genuinely can’t tell.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Attractive wood construction with farmhouse-style design
- ✓ Inner metal ring secures standard 13-gallon trash bags
- ✓ Dog-proof lid keeps pets out of the garbage
- ✓ Crafted from low-emission MDF board for eco-friendliness
- ✓ Freestanding design requires no installation
Why We Recommend It
This is one of those products that solves two problems at once — hiding your trash and adding to your decor. The dog-proof lid is a genuine lifesaver if you’ve ever come home to find trash scattered across the kitchen floor. And the MDF construction means it’s lighter than solid wood but still looks the part.
Best For
Dog owners and anyone who wants a freestanding trash solution that doubles as furniture. Perfect for farmhouse-style kitchens, open-concept living spaces, or anyone who hates the look of traditional trash cans.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Beautiful farmhouse design that complements kitchen decor
- Effective dog-proof lid keeps pets out
- No installation needed — just set it up and go
- Inner metal ring keeps bags secure and tidy
Cons:
- Single compartment — no built-in recycling separation
- MDF material is less durable than solid wood over time
- 13-gallon capacity may need frequent emptying for busy households
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “We have two large dogs and they finally stopped getting into the trash. This cabinet is sturdy, looks great in our kitchen, and the lid stays closed even when the dogs nudge it. It really does look like a piece of furniture, not a trash can.”
Customer Review: “I put this in our open kitchen and it blends right in. The wood finish is nice and the bag ring works well. I do wish it had a second compartment for recycling, but for a single trash solution, it’s the best-looking option I found.”
8. HOOBRO 20 Gallon Double Tilt Out Trash Can Cabinet, Hidden Storage with Open Compartments for Kitchen
The HOOBRO tilt-out cabinet offers a generous 20-gallon capacity across two compartments, making it a solid choice for bigger households. The tilt-out panels give you quick access while keeping everything hidden, and the open shelf compartments on top are handy for storing extra bags or cleaning supplies. It’s functional furniture that earns its spot in your kitchen.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Hidden tilt-out design conceals two trash bins behind framed doors
- ✓ 20-gallon total capacity — fits two 10-gallon cans (not included)
- ✓ Open shelf compartments on top for additional storage
- ✓ Farmhouse-meets-minimalist aesthetic with framed panel doors
- ✓ Sturdy construction with quality hardware
Why We Recommend It
The capacity here is the real selling point. If you’ve got a family of four or more, you know the pain of a trash can that’s always overflowing. The 20-gallon setup gives you breathing room, and the tilt-out mechanism is smooth and easy to use. The bonus storage shelves on top are a thoughtful touch that adds real utility.
Best For
Larger families who need serious trash capacity without sacrificing style. Great for kitchens with a bit of extra floor space who want a furniture-style hidden trash solution.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large 20-gallon capacity handles busy households
- Tilt-out design keeps trash completely hidden
- Open shelf storage adds extra functionality
- Attractive farmhouse-style design
Cons:
- Trash cans not included — additional cost
- Requires floor space — not ideal for very small kitchens Assembly can be time-consuming
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Finally, a trash cabinet big enough for our family of five! We use one side for trash and one for recycling. The tilt-out doors work smoothly and the top shelves hold our extra bags and trash can liners. It took a while to assemble but it was worth it.”
Customer Review: “This looks great in our kitchen and holds way more than our old bin. The only downsides are that it doesn’t come with the actual trash cans and the assembly instructions could be clearer. But once it’s set up, it’s a fantastic piece of furniture.”
9. Step N’ Sort 18.5 Gallon Extra Large Dual Trash and Recycling Bin, Soft-Step with Removable Inner Bins
When you need serious capacity, the Step N’ Sort 18.5-gallon bin steps up. With two 35-liter compartments and independent foot pedals for each side, it’s built for busy households that go through a lot of trash and recyclables. The removable inner bins make emptying a breeze, and the soft-step pedals are responsive and quiet.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Extra-large 70-liter (18.5-gallon) total capacity with two 35-liter compartments
- ✓ Independent foot pedals for each compartment — open just the side you need
- ✓ Removable inner bins for easy emptying and cleaning
- ✓ Dual-compartment design encourages consistent recycling habits
- ✓ Durable construction with a clean, modern look
Why We Recommend It
This is the bin for people who are tired of taking out the trash every single day. The 70-liter capacity means fewer trips to the dumpster, and the independent pedals are a clever feature — you can open just the recycling side without exposing the trash. The removable bins are also much easier to clean than fixed interior buckets.
Best For
Large families or anyone who generates significant amounts of both trash and recyclables. Also great for home offices, workshops, or any space where you need a high-capacity dual-compartment bin.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Massive 70-liter capacity reduces emptying frequency
- Independent foot pedals for each compartment
- Removable bins are easy to clean and replace
- Encourages recycling with dedicated dual compartments
Cons:
- Large footprint needs adequate floor space
- Plastic construction doesn’t feel as premium as stainless steel options
- Foot pedals may feel less sturdy under heavy use over time
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “With three kids, we go through a lot of trash. This bin holds so much that we only empty it every 3-4 days now. The separate pedals are genius — I can open just the recycling side when I’m sorting bottles. The bins lift out easily for cleaning too.”
Customer Review: “This is a big bin — make sure you have the space. But if you need the capacity, there’s nothing better. The dual pedals work well and the bins are easy to remove. It’s not the prettiest thing in the world, but it’s incredibly functional.”
10. Function Home 13 Gallon Wood Trash Can Cabinet, Freestanding Dog Proof Farmhouse Trash Bin with Lid
Rounding out our list is another Function Home wood cabinet, and it earns its spot by offering the same great farmhouse style with a slightly updated design. The eco-friendly MDF board construction is a nice touch for environmentally conscious buyers, and the dog-proof lid continues to be one of the most practical features you can ask for in a freestanding trash cabinet.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Eco-friendly low-emission MDF board construction
- ✓ Dog-proof lid keeps pets safely away from trash
- ✓ Inner metal ring secures 13-gallon bags for easy replacement
- ✓ Modern farmhouse design complements a wide range of kitchen styles
- ✓ Freestanding — no installation or cabinet modifications needed
Why We Recommend It
This is a reliable, good-looking option for anyone who wants a no-nonsense trash cabinet that works right out of the box. The eco-friendly materials are a bonus, and the dog-proof lid is genuinely effective. If you liked the #7 pick but want to compare styles, this one offers a slightly different take on the same concept.
Best For
Pet owners and eco-minded shoppers who want an attractive freestanding trash cabinet. Great for kitchens where you want to hide trash without any installation or renovation work.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Eco-friendly materials align with sustainable living values
- Dog-proof design is highly effective
- Attractive farmhouse aesthetic
- Easy setup with zero installation required
Cons:
- Single compartment only — no built-in recycling separation
- 13-gallon capacity may not suffice for larger families
- MDF construction is less durable than solid hardwood
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I love that this is made with eco-friendly materials — it was a big factor in my decision. It looks beautiful in our kitchen and the lid keeps our golden retriever out of the trash. The bag ring is sturdy and makes changing bags quick and easy.”
Customer Review: “Simple, stylish, and functional. I don’t have a huge kitchen so the freestanding design works perfectly. I keep a small recycling bin next to it for sorting. The wood finish is nice and it feels well-made for the price.”
Complete Buying Guide for Kitchen Cabinet For Trash And Recycle
Essential Factors We Consider
Choosing the right kitchen cabinet for trash and recycle comes down to a few key factors. First, think about your available space. Do you have room for a freestanding cabinet, or do you need something that fits inside an existing cabinet or under the sink? Measure carefully — nothing’s more frustrating than a bin that doesn’t fit.
Next, consider capacity. A single person in an apartment might do fine with 9 gallons, but a family of four will want 15 gallons or more. Dual-compartment designs are ideal if you’re serious about recycling, since they keep waste and recyclables separated without needing two separate bins.
Don’t overlook build quality and features. Soft-close lids, foot pedals, bag-securing mechanisms, and dog-proof lids all sound minor until you live without them. And if aesthetics matter to you — and they should, since this thing lives in your kitchen — look for options that match your decor, whether that’s stainless steel modern or farmhouse wood.
For more information about our site policies, you can review our Terms And Conditions.
Budget Planning
The good news is that kitchen trash and recycling solutions exist at every price point. Basic under-sink bins like the Rubbermaid 2-pack can be found for under $30, while premium pull-out cabinet systems and furniture-style cabinets can run $100-$200 or more. Generally, you get what you pay for in terms of materials and features, but even the budget options on our list are well-made and functional.
If you’re on a tight budget, start with a simple dual-compartment bin or an under-sink set. If you have more to spend and want a seamless look, invest in a pull-out cabinet rack or a wood trash cabinet. Either way, think of it as a long-term investment — a good trash solution will serve you well for years.
Final Thoughts
There’s no single “best” kitchen cabinet for trash and recycle — it really depends on your space, your household size, and your style preferences. The Rubbermaid 2-pack is our top pick for sheer value and simplicity, while the Home Zone Living stainless steel bin is our editor’s choice for its sleek design and smart features. If you’re on a budget, the SIMPLI-MAGIC hands-free bin delivers way more than its price suggests.
Whatever you choose, the important thing is finding a solution that makes dealing with trash and recycling as painless as possible. A well-chosen bin keeps your kitchen cleaner, looks better, and can even help you recycle more consistently. Take your time, measure your space, and pick the one that fits your life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What size trash can fits under a standard kitchen sink?
A: Most standard under-sink cabinets can accommodate bins between 9 and 13 gallons. However, you’ll want to measure your specific cabinet carefully, accounting for plumbing and any other items stored inside. The Rubbermaid 9.4-gallon bins on our list are specifically designed to fit under most sinks with their angled opening design.
Q: Are dual-compartment trash cans worth it for recycling?
Q: How do I keep my trash cabinet from smelling?
A: Regular cleaning is the most important step — wipe down the interior and exterior weekly. Use trash bags that fit properly so they don’t slip and leave residue. Some people place a small baking soda box or odor-absorbing packet at the bottom of the bin. Choosing a model with a well-fitting lid, like the Function Home wood cabinets, also helps contain odors significantly.
Q: Can I install a pull-out trash rack in any cabinet?
A: Not every cabinet will work. Most pull-out systems require a minimum interior width of about 15-18 inches and a depth of at least 21 inches. You’ll also need enough height clearance for the bins. Always check the specific product’s cabinet requirements before purchasing. The Pull Out Double 9 Gallon Rack and Home Zone Living pull-out system both list their minimum cabinet dimensions clearly.
Q: What’s the best trash solution for pet owners?
We hope this guide helps you find the perfect kitchen cabinet for trash and recycle for your home. Each product on our list has been carefully selected based on quality, features, and real user feedback. Whether you go with a simple under-sink set or a full furniture-style cabinet, you’re making a smart investment in a cleaner, more organized kitchen. Happy shopping!