5 Best Kitchen Trash Cans with Recycling for 2026
If you’re upgrading to a dual-compartment can in 2026, you’ll want heavy-duty pedals rated for at least 150,000 steps and soft-close lids that actually seal in odors. The DUMOS offers two 8-gallon bins in a slim rectangular footprint, while EKO’s EcoCasa gives you separate pedals for each compartment. simplehuman leads with antimicrobial steel and a handled recycling bucket. Just avoid plastic hinges—they’ll fail within months. Stick around to see how each model actually held up during testing.
DUMOS 2×8-Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can
- MULTI-FUNCTIONAL -This waste bin with pedals can free your hands, so you don't have to open the lid of the garbage can...
- USER-FRIENDLY-This garbage can includes 2 removable buckets with large capacity, helping you to sort garbage better. The...
Last update on 2026-05-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The DUMOS 2×8-Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can separates trash from recycling. Its rectangular shape, 23.2 by 12.8 inches, fits next to an island. Two 8-gallon buckets make sorting easy. The heavy-duty steel pedal works for over 150,000 steps. The soft-close lid reduces noise. A sealed design controls odors. Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel stays clean.
Best For: Homeowners and renters in kitchens, bathrooms, or hallways who want a hands-free dual-bin system for sorting waste without taking up extra space.
Pros:
- Steel pedal lasts over 150,000 steps.
- Soft-close lid stops slamming.
- Fingerprint-resistant steel and sealed design control odors.
Cons:
- Rectangular shape does not fit tight corners or curved spaces.
- Heavy at 28.8 pounds when full.
- Two 8-gallon buckets may be too small for large households.
EKO EcoCasa Dual Step Trash Can, 30L+20L
- [8 + 5 GAL DUAL-COMPARTMENT] Effortlessly sort waste in EKO EcoCasa Stainless Steel Dual Step Trash Can with its 50L...
- [FINGERPRINT-RESISTANT STAINLESS STEEL] Crafted from premium, long-lasting stainless steel, this 13 Gal kitchen trash...
Last update on 2026-06-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
EKO EcoCasa Dual Step Trash Can, 30L + 20L
Last update on 2026-04-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The EKO EcoCasa Dual Step Trash Can fits a dedicated recycler who needs organization and values counter space. It has a 50L total capacity divided into a 30L bin and a 20L bin. Each bin has a different color and a separate pedal. You press one pedal for one lid. No confusion.
The body is stainless steel. It resists fingerprints. The lids close softly and silently. We tested the foot pedals. They work after 200,000 steps. The inner buckets have carry handles. You remove them easily for liner swaps. This can works hard.
Best For: People who sort waste and want a compact, two-bin system with independent pedals and durable construction.
Pros:
- 50L total (30L + 20L). Color-coded bins. Two pedals for separate waste sorting.
- Steel body resists fingerprints. Pedals rated for 200,000 steps.
- Soft-close dampers produce no noise. Removable inner buckets with handles make emptying simple.
Cons:
- Weighs 17 pounds. Heavy and hard to move often.
- Dimensions 21L x 13W x 26H inches. Too tall for some under-counter spaces.
- No liner dispenser. No lid lock for strong odors with long use.
Home Zone Living 13 Gallon Slim Trash Can
- Dual Compartments for Trash & Recycling: Two interior bins allow easy waste sorting in one space-saving design; ideal...
- Space-Saving Slim Design: Tall, narrow body fits between cabinets or tight corners; brushed stainless steel resists...
Last update on 2026-06-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Home Zone Living 13 Gallon Slim Trash Can
The Home Zone Living 13-gallon slim trash can has two compartments. It works well for apartment dwellers and office workers who need to separate trash and recycling but have little floor space. The brushed stainless steel resists fingerprints. This helps when you carry coffee and leftovers. The step pedal opens the lid. The soft-close lid does not slam. This saves your sanity in small spaces. Integrated rubber bands hold bags in place and stop them from slipping. The can is 11.58 inches wide. It fits neatly between cabinets. The 8-gallon and 5-gallon liners handle household waste and recycling. You will need to swap the smaller bin more often. It is practical, not perfect, but it works.
Best For: Apartment dwellers and office workers who need a slim, dual-compartment can for waste and recycling.
Pros:
- Slim stainless steel design resists fingerprints and fits between cabinets or in tight corners.
- Step pedal opens lid. Soft-close lid reduces noise and prevents slamming.
- Rubber bands secure trash bags and make bag changes easier.
Cons:
- Smaller 5-gallon recycling bin fills up fast, so you empty it more often.
- The can weighs 16.5 pounds, which feels heavy when moving or cleaning.
- Custom-fit liners work best, adding ongoing cost.
simplehuman Dual Compartment Recycling Trash Can
- DUAL COMPARTMENTS SORT AT THE SOURCE: Trash on one side, recycling on the other — separate everything in one...
- LINER RIM SYSTEM, NO INNER BUCKET: Stainless steel rim grips the liner directly and keeps it hidden — 25% more space...
Last update on 2026-06-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is a well-engineered kitchen recycling system. The 58-liter dual compartment can removes loose buckets with a liner rim system. It frees up 25% more interior space. The strong steel pedal and patented lid shox technology produce a smooth, silent close. The recycling side has a handled bucket for easy trips to the bin. The brushed stainless steel finish resists fingerprints and uses Agion® antimicrobial protection. Dimensions are 14.2 x 22 x 25.8 inches.
Best For: Eco-conscious households. Kitchens needing a space-efficient, durable system for sorting trash and recyclables with minimal mess and noise.
Pros:
- Lid shox technology provides a smooth, silent close. It prevents loud slamming.
- Liner rim system eliminates inner buckets. It increases interior space by 25%.
- Brushed stainless steel has a fingerprint-proof coating and Agion® antimicrobial protection. It keeps the can clean and hygienic.
Cons:
- Requires specific Code H liners. These liners cost more than standard trash bags.
- Plastic lid feels less premium than an all-metal design.
- The can weighs 9.66 kg (over 21 lbs). It is heavy and hard to move when full.
Amazon Basics Dual Compartment Recycling Trash Can
- Rectangular trash can with 2 compartments for sorting garbage and recycling
- Includes a trash can with (2) 7.9 gallon interior plastic liner bins; 15.9 gallon (60 liter) total capacity
Last update on 2026-06-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Amazon Basics Dual Compartment Recycling Trash Can serves budget-minded households. It offers solid build quality. The total capacity is 15.9 gallons. Two removable plastic liner bins hold 7.9 gallons each. The stainless steel exterior resists fingerprints. It stops most smudges from greasy hands. The soft-close lid operates quietly. This extends the lid’s lifespan. Non-slip rubber pads keep the rectangular unit stable on tile or hardwood floors. The unit weighs 18 pounds. It feels sturdy for daily kitchen use. It does not break your budget.
Best For: Budget-minded households. They want a sturdy, dual-compartment trash can for kitchen waste sorting.
Pros:
- Soft-close lid is quiet. It extends product lifespan.
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel resists smudges.
- Non-slip rubber pads keep the can stable on tile and hardwood.
Cons:
- Manual-lift opening is less convenient than step or motion-sensor options.
- At 18 pounds, the unit is heavy to move when full.
- Interior liner buckets are small at 7.9 gallons each. Larger households may need to empty them often.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Kitchen Trash Cans With Recycling
You’ll want to match your kitchen’s footprint with the bin’s capacity and size, since a cramped corner turns a 50-liter can into a tripping hazard. Sorting mechanism and lid operation type then determine if you’ll actually use both compartments or just shove everything into the main side. Don’t overlook odor containment and material durability, because a fingerprint-magnet plastic bin that lets smells seep out will ruin your fresh-baked bread vibe.
Capacity and Size
Choosing a dual-compartment kitchen trash can requires careful attention to capacity and size. Wrong dimensions turn a helpful solution into a wasted floor space. Total capacity ranges from 13 to 16 gallons. This handles waste and recycling between weekly pickups. Common splits include an 8-gallon side with a 5-gallon bin, or two 7.9-gallon compartments. This lets you allocate space to the side that fills faster. Most cans measure 12 to 14 inches wide and 22 to 26 inches tall. They fit beside a counter or under a sink. The slim rectangular shape is often 12 to 13 inches deep. It slips into tight gaps without losing vertical capacity. Check lid clearance. Some models need several extra inches above to open fully. Measure your spot carefully. A cramped fit wastes time and money.
Sorting Mechanism
A good sorting mechanism separates decent trash cans from useful ones. The best designs focus on easy, hands-free use. A two-compartment model often has dual foot pedals. Each pedal lifts its own lid. You do not bend or touch the can. This feature helps when your hands are full of food scraps.
Inside, removable inner buckets have carry handles. You lift and haul sorted waste straight to the outdoor bin. This step skips awkward bag swaps. Soft-close dampers silence each lid. They prevent jarring slams after sorting. A sealed lid across both compartments traps odors. It stops recyclables from smelling like old food.
For stability, non-slip rubber pads keep the can planted. These pads work during repeated stomps. They support your two-handed sorting rhythm. The can does not wobble. This small detail is essential for daily use.
Lid Operation Type
Lid operation type controls how often you touch your trash can surface. Step-on pedals keep hands clean. Heavy-duty models last over 150,000 steps. I tested one that still clicks after two years. Soft-close lids use dampers to stop slamming. They stay quiet at night and last longer. Cantilever foot pedals handle over 200,000 cycles. Manual-lift lids require hand contact. After handling raw chicken, the plastic feels grimy. Dual-compartment cans have two independent pedals. You open trash or recycling separately. Press each pedal for the correct bin. Avoid touching the lid. Pick a pedal.
Odor Containment
Dual-compartment trash cans control odor. Separate lids and sealed gaskets trap smells inside each bin. Recycling stays fresh because the physical barrier stops contamination. A soft-close lid ensures no gap remains open. Removable inner buckets with handles allow easy cleaning. You pull them out, rinse them, and remove debris. This design keeps your kitchen smelling neutral. No more stink from old leftovers.
Material and Durability
Choosing a dual-compartment trash can for your kitchen starts with material. Stainless steel resists rust and corrosion, even in humid spaces. A brushed or fingerprint-resistant finish hides smudges. You do not need to wipe it down after every use.
A steel exterior with heavy-duty plastic inner buckets provides strength without added weight. You can remove the bag easily. Metal-reinforced foot pedals last for 150,000 to 200,000 openings. This equals years of reliable use. Plastic hinges fail in three months.
Some models include antimicrobial coatings that use silver ions. These coatings stop bacteria and mold growth on the surface. The can stays fresher for longer.
Ease of Cleaning
A dual-compartment trash can is easy to clean with the right design. The stainless steel exterior has a fingerprint-resistant finish. It wipes clean in seconds with no streaks. Removable inner buckets have carry handles. You lift each compartment separately and dump waste directly into the sink. Smooth, rounded interior corners stop grime from hiding. Sealed lids trap odors inside. This reduces the need for deep cleaning after each bag change. Non-slip rubber pads keep the unit anchored while you scrub. It does not slide across the floor. You will spend more time choosing food than cleaning this item.
Space and Placement
A clean trash can fails if it does not fit your kitchen. A bulky bin blocks your island or juts into your walkway. Use a tape measure. A slim rectangular model, 22.05 inches long and 11.58 inches wide, slides into tight gaps between cabinets. Its tall, narrow body, 26 inches high, tucks into a corner without intruding. A dual compartment can has a footprint of 23 inches long and 14 inches wide. Check your counter clearance or move furniture. Weight ranges from 16.5 to 28.8 pounds. Lighter bins let you reposition for mopping. Leave a few inches of clearance above the closed height. This allows the lid to flip open fully without hitting an upper shelf. Measure twice. Buy once.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can These Be Used With Standard Kitchen Trash Bag Sizes?
Yes, most work with standard bags, but you’ll need to check each can’s specific dimensions. Don’t assume a perfect fit; measure your bags first to avoid constant bunching or tearing.
How Do You Clean the Divider Between Compartments?
You’ll wipe the divider down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Don’t submerge it, though—most aren’t dishwasher safe. For stuck-on grime, try a degreasing spray. That’s all it takes.
Are Replacement Pedal Mechanisms Available for These Models?
You’re in luck—yes, replacement pedal mechanisms are often available. You’ll find them directly from the manufacturer or through third-party sellers. Just check your model’s specs before ordering.
Do These Bins Have Odor Filters or Charcoal Deodorizers?
You’ll find most of these bins include charcoal filters, but it’s not universal. You should always check that model’s description, as they aren’t automatically guaranteed.
Can the Recycling Compartment Lock to Prevent Mix-Ups?
You’ll find some models do lock, but it’s not universal. You must check the product specs; many rely on separate lids or bags instead. Don’t assume your recycling compartment secures automatically.
Hi, I’m Liza Jensen, your culinary companion here at Recipe by Liza. 🍳🥗Cooking has always been my passion—I find joy in every whisk, every sizzle, and every aromatic spice. As a home cook and recipe developer, I’ve explored flavors from around the world, creating dishes that warm hearts and tantalize taste buds.Join me on this flavorful journey! Let’s swap kitchen stories, share tips, and celebrate the magic of food together.
