These kitchen trash cans are serving style and function in our homes

Let's talk trash

Best kitchen trash can: black trash can, copper trash can, silver trash can and white trash can
(Image credit: Future)

If your trash can is totally ruining the vibe in your kitchen, then I get why you're here. Not all of us can renovate our kitchens to have lovely in-cupboard bins that blend in seamlessly with the rest of our kitchen decor, and nor should we have to do that for the sake of our trash. So, with this in mind, I've curated a list of the best kitchen trash cans you need to take a peek at if your waste storage system is in need of a total rethink. I know mine was before I reviewed a bunch of these bins!

Whatever your waste management situation is, whether you separate things yourself at home or you drop recyclables off at a dedicated center, there's a way that you can manage this job. And make it look a little tidier (and less of an eyesore) in your apartment or home. This will also give you much more floorspace to work with, so if your dining set is in your kitchen you'll have a little more room to stretch out post-dinner.

Think everything from in-cupboard trash cans to all-in-one recycling units and rubbish-only bins. You'll see them all below. I've split the job of reviewing these trash cans with the rest of the Real Homes team, so these solutions have been tested in homes, apartments, flatshares, and more. Only the ones we loved the most (and still use to this day) have made it into this guide.

For more kitchen must-haves, see our ultimate guide on the best cleaning supplies for everything you need under your sink. But first, let's talk trash.

The 9 best kitchen trash cans for style, as picked by Real Homes

Why you can trust Real Homes Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.


4 things to consider when choosing a kitchen trash can

1. Think about its size
Depending on the size of your household and how much trash you generate, you’ll have to think about the capacity that would be useful to you. Also consider the size of your kitchen and if you really need a larger trash can or if you can reduce the amount of waste you create, instead.

2. What about its lid?
Sensor lids are handy for cooking or when your hands are full, but they do come at an extra cost. And you need to replace batteries and be careful when cleaning them. Other trash cans are touch to open and some have pedals to operate their lids. It's all down to personal preference, really.

3. Think about design
After that, it’s all a matter of style. If you think all kitchen trash cans are a bit of an eyesore, then think again because a big trash can doesn't need to disrupt your interior scheme. Go for something colorful to spice up your kitchen or try an in-cabinet option to hide your waste.

4. How easy is it to keep it clean?
Because we all know how fast trash cans get dirty, you need to think about how easy your new one will be to clean. Has it got lots of nooks and crannies that dirt can get into? Will fingerprints show on it? Your best bet is either a stainless steel or plastic pick as stains and liquid can be cleared off easily. Also, if you like cooking fish or meat, it may be worth looking into a trash can with odor-busting technology or buying some disposable scent filters (available on Amazon). These are often made from carbon or charcoal to absorb any offensive whiffs.

Where to buy a kitchen trash can

Still looking to buy a kitchen trash can? Here's where to browse more online. Click through to shop all of the ones currently available to buy.

Real Homes review process

EKO Ecofly Butterfly Recycling Bin, Titanium Blue, 40L

EKO Ecofly Butterfly Recycling Bin in blue in our deputy editor's house

(Image credit: Future | Camille Dubuis-Welch)

We've tested seven out of nine of these kitchen trash cans to ensure they're up to a good standard when it comes to both style and quality. We've shared this job around the team, so everyone has had their chance to test a kitchen trash can and give their verdict. This way, we've tested trash cans in large family households, small apartments, and everything in between. The ones we liked made it onto this list, and we've even given each trash can that we tested a star rating to make it easier for you to come to a decision.

Before featuring these trash cans, we've been sure to use them at home for a month or two. This is to make sure that they can withstand daily use, and that they clean up well, plus we want to make sure that they don't break easily and that they'll be true investment pieces as let's face it: a new kitchen trash can is expensive.

Annie Collyer
Head Ecommerce Editor

Hi! I'm Annie, and I'm the Head Ecommerce Editor at Real Homes. I've been part of the Real Homes team since 2018, when I joined as Deals Editor. Along with covering major sales events — from Black Friday to Amazon Prime Day — I review home must-haves so that you can buy with peace of mind. Mostly focusing on home fragrance and sleep, as well as a few vacuum cleaners, I've tested pretty much every item you can think of that you need in your home. I live on the outskirts of the city in a two-bed apartment with my husband and my pug, Doug. So I am always searching for compact alternatives and ways to save floor space. What about when I am not typing away? Well, you'll find me enjoying an iced coffee (no matter the season) and trying out the latest brunch spots the city has to offer, or booking my next holiday. Where else can you find my words? Livingetc, Homes & Gardens, Ideal Home, Gardeningetc, and Woman & Home.

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