Trash is the inevitable curse of civilization. The accumulation of kitchen trash was initiated with the start of civilization. However, the design of an organized kitchen evolved in the 19th century, and the use of kitchen trash cans is not very old.
A stylish kitchen trash can is more than just a place to dispose of waste. It is a functional and aesthetic element that contributes to the overall look and feel of the cooking space. Choosing the right trash can significantly influences the cleanliness and beautification of your kitchen.
Beyond its practical function, a ‘stylish trash can’ can elevate the design of your kitchen. Whether you prefer sleek stainless steel, elegant brushed nickel, or a touch of color, there are options to suit every aesthetic.
From minimalist designs that flawlessly complement your decor to elegant choices that add a touch of personality, the right ‘trash can’ can enhance the visual appeal of your kitchen. Moreover, odor management is another vital issue that requires proper addressing.
Historical Aspect of Kitchen Trash Cans
A waste container, a dustbin, rubbish bin, trash can, garbage can, wastepaper basket, or wastebasket, is a type of container to store waste, usually made of metal or plastic.
The first garbage container, used for the ashes of burnt garbage, was introduced in England in 1875. It took the United States ten years to catch up to England.
An industrial engineer, Lillian Moller Gilbreth, invented the pedal bin in the 1920s for the disposal of kitchen waste.
2 Best Kitchen Trash Can
The best kitchen trash can efficiently integrate form and function. Different types of kitchen trash cans are available. You need to select one that complements your décor. Trash cans could be made of stainless steel, wood, plastic tones, or a vibrant color. Ideally, they should be easy to use, clean, and effectively control odors. I will compare the two cans to facilitate your selection.
1. Amazon Basics Smudge-Resistant Rectangular Trash Can
Fig. 1. Amazon Basics Smudge-Resistant Rectangular Trash Can
The volume of a trash can plays an important role because it should fit well in the kitchen. This trash can is suitable for use in the home and office. Its size is 50 liters; product dimensions are 14.7” in length, 16.7” wide, and 25.9” in height.
Rust or iron oxide forms when iron or steel comes into contact with oxygen and moisture. This chemical reaction causes the metal to corrode and deteriorate. However, Amazon's basic trash can is rust-resistant. You need not worry about rusting problems.
The durability of any product is highly desirable. The stainless-steel rust-resistant exterior and heavy-duty plastic inner bucket provide this trash can with reliable strength. Moreover, you can use plastic garbage bags for messy or wet rubbish.
A large plastic bag for your garbage can hold significantly more trash than plastic shopping bags. Moreover, plastic bags can be recycled for future use.
This trash can is easy to use and handle daily. Amazon Basics ‘trash can’ has an open lid, a removable bucket, and an easy carrying handle, making it convenient for trash disposal.
Nobody wants noise in the opening and closing of the lid of a trash can. A ‘trash can’ with an ultra-quiet opening and closing lid is highly desirable. You can use this trash can with a manual foot lever easily. You will find it comfortable during use.
You can use this trash can effectively. It will also minimize your kitchen décor cost.
Pros
- Perfect size and shape
- Simple design and great price
- Glides smoothly with a gentle stroke
- Soft-close lid plus stay-open feature
- The bags are easy to change
Cons
Stainless steel does have fingerprints, but it is not hard to wipe down
2. Amazon Basics Small Trash Can
Fig. 2. Amazon Basics Small Trash Can
Size does matter in accommodating any items. Generally, small to medium-sized cans are preferred, especially for bedrooms, offices, living rooms, and bathrooms. This trash can fit properly in those places because of its size and quality.
This ‘trash can’ has compact dimensions, 12.4” in length, 7.3” wide, and 15.4” in height. Such trash cans fit easily into small spaces yet provide ample storage. Its 5.3-gallon capacity offers a versatile use for every room.
It is equipped with a soft-close foot pedal and is suitable for the bathroom, bedroom, living room, and office. Moreover, no rust develops with wet garbage and rotten fruits or vegetables.
You can find this ‘trash can’ easy for everyday use. This small metal trash can with a lid features a stay-open, removable bucket, and carry handle for easy trash disposal and cleaning convenience
Durable items are preferable for cost-effectiveness. This kitchen trash can is durable and made from a rust-resistant stainless-steel exterior and a heavy-duty plastic inner bucket. It offers lasting strength and reliability
Noise minimization is desirable while doing any work, either in the office or at home. Since Amazon Basics' small can is equipped with a manual foot lever and a soft-close lid, it helps smooth opening and closing silently in any setting.
You can use this type of can for your office, bedroom, and kitchen to keep them clean and stylish.
Pros
- Hands-free operation
- It fits the space perfectly
- Very nice trash can
- Easy to use and clean
Cons
The ideal size bag is 6 gallons for garbage disposal
Why use a kitchen trash can?
A kitchen trash can is more than just a receptacle for waste; it's a functional and aesthetic element that significantly impacts the look and feel of your cooking space.
Beyond its practical role in keeping your kitchen clean and organized, a stylish ‘trash can’ can elevate your kitchen's design. Whether you prefer sleek stainless steel, elegant brushed nickel, or a touch of vibrant color, there's a trash can to complement your existing decor.
How to clean and manage a kitchen trash can
Keeping your kitchen trash can clean is essential for maintaining a hygienic and odor-free environment. Here's a simple guide:
Regular cleaning
Wipe down the exterior of the can with a damp cloth to remove fingerprints and spills daily. Every week, remove the trash bag, wash inside and outside with warm soapy water and a sponge or brush, followed by rinsing thoroughly and allowing it to air dry completely.
Monthly, use a disinfectant spray to sanitize the interior and exterior of the can. Consider using a baking soda solution to deodorize the can.
Odor control
You can control odor by adopting different techniques such as,
Use trash bags: Always use trash bags to contain waste and prevent spills.
Newspaper use at the bottom: Newspaper can help absorb odors and moisture.
Use baking soda: Sprinkle baking soda at the bottom of the can to absorb odors.
Consider activated charcoal: Place a small bag of activated charcoal in the bottom of the can to neutralize odors.
Proper waste disposal
Wrap food scraps tightly in paper towels or plastic bags to prevent leaks. Dispose of trash frequently to prevent odors and attract pests. Recycle whenever possible to reduce the amount of waste in your trash can.
Buying Guideline
Choosing the right kitchen ‘trash can’ can significantly impact your kitchen's functionality and aesthetics. Here's a guide to help you make an informed decision:
1. Size and capacity
Consider your household size: A smaller ‘can’ suffice for a single person, while a larger one is better for families.
Measure your space: Ensure the ‘trash can’ fits comfortably in your designated area without obstructing movement.
Expected waste volume: Assess the amounts of trash you generate to determine the appropriate capacity.
2. Type of trash can
Step can: Hands-free operation is convenient, but some models can be noisy. Step cans offer a convenient and hygienic solution for kitchen waste disposal. This type of can is equipped with a foot pedal; these hands-free cans allow you to open the lid without touching it, minimizing the spread of germs.
Swing top: Swing-top trash cans are a classic and reliable option for kitchen waste disposal. They feature a simple and strong design with a hinged lid that swings open and closed. This mechanism is generally quiet and requires minimal effort to operate.
Swing-top cans are often available in variable sizes and materials, including stainless steel, plastic, and ceramic. You choose the right one for your kitchen.
Pull-out: Integrated into kitchen cabinetry, maximizing space efficiency. Pull-out trash cans are a space-saving and convenient solution for modern kitchens. In addition, they often feature smooth-gliding mechanisms and offer a shiny, organized, and aesthetically pleasing kitchen environment.
Slim can: It is ideal for tight spaces, offering a compact and stylish solution for waste disposal. Their narrow profile allows them to fit comfortably in corners, between appliances, or even in small pantries.
However, despite their slim design, many models offer surprisingly generous capacity, making them suitable for both small and medium-sized households. Slim cans often feature sleek and modern aesthetics, flawlessly blending into various kitchen decor styles.
3. Materials
Stainless steel: Stainless steel is a popular choice for kitchen trash cans because it combines durability, style, and easy maintenance. Its sleek and modern appearance blends with most kitchen aesthetics, while its smooth surface resists fingerprints and wipes clean effortlessly.
Plastic: Lightweight and affordable, but may not be as durable or stylish. Plastic can be prone to scratches, dents, and cracks, especially with rough handling or exposure to extreme temperatures. Besides, plastic can sometimes absorb odors from the waste within, making them difficult to eliminate.
Although recyclable, many may not match the aesthetic appeal of more premium materials like stainless steel or bamboo.
Bamboo/Wood: Bamboo and wood ‘trash cans’ bring a natural touch to any kitchen, adding warmth and a unique aesthetic. They may require more maintenance than other materials. Moreover, bamboo and wood are susceptible to moisture and can warp or stain if not properly cared for.
4. Features
Trash cans are featured in different ways depending on marketing demands and the cost of manufacturing. You should consider the following points before purchasing:
Compartments you want: The number of compartments you need may influence your choice. Depending on your local recycling scheme and how much capacity you need for recyclables compared to waste. Bins with two inner bin containers make it easy to separate waste from recycling and can be used in conjunction with a food waste caddy.
In-cupboard recycling bins: Integrated in-cupboard bins are a fantastic solution for maintaining a clutter-free kitchen or freeing up some floor space. It can be positioned where you prepare food or tidy up at the end of a meal to make your kitchen more ergonomic.
Odor control: Look for features like activated charcoal filters or odor-neutralizing liners. Odor-control trash cans are designed to minimize unpleasant smells emanating from kitchen waste. These innovative cans often incorporate features such as activated charcoal filters, which effectively absorb odors, keeping your kitchen smelling fresh.
Additionally, odor-neutralizing liners can have built-in odor control agents that help to neutralize unpleasant smells. Tight-fitting lids and seals also prevent odors from escaping the can. Moreover, some advanced models utilize UV light to kill bacteria and eliminate odors at the source.
Removable liners: Removable liners significantly enhance the ease and hygiene of changing trash bags.
Easier bag changes: With a removable liner, you can lift out the full bag easily and replace it with a new one. This eliminates the hassle of wrestling with a trash bag trapped inside the can, saving you time and effort.
Improved hygiene: Removable liners prevent direct contact with the trash can's interior, reducing the spread of germs and bacteria. This is particularly important in kitchens where food waste and other potentially contaminated materials are disposed of.
Easier cleaning: When it's time to clean the can, the absence of a trash bag makes it much easier to reach all corners and surfaces, ensuring thorough cleaning and preventing the buildup of odors. Moreover, smooth surfaces are easier to wipe clean.
Quiet operation: If you choose a ‘step trash can’, opt for a model with a quiet lid mechanism. Step cans with quiet lid mechanisms use dampeners, shock absorbers, or other innovative designs to minimize the loud noise when shutting the can. This is especially important in open-plan kitchens or homes with sensitive sleepers.
Durability: A well-designed quiet-close mechanism can also contribute to the overall durability of the ‘step can’, as it reduces the stress on the lid and other components.
5. Aesthetics
Aesthetics play a crucial role in kitchen design, and the trash can is no exception. Choosing a trash can that complements your kitchen's style enhances the overall look and feel of the space. You can select a can that complements your existing decor.
Select a color and finish that matches your preferences. It could be stainless steel, black, white, or colored; options are widely available.
6. Budget
Set a budget and compare prices from different retailers. Besides, consider the long-term value and durability of the can when making your decision.
FAQs
1. Is it a garbage can or a bin?
Although the terms are synonymous and interchangeable, ‘can’ implies a smaller container, such as a 30-gallon or smaller, round, or rectangular container. On the other hand, ‘bin’ indicates something larger, perhaps even wheeled, or something like a “dumpster”. In general, containers larger than 30 gallons belong to the ‘bin’ group.
2. Why is a bin called a dustbin?
Dust implies dry waste, and in England, they term an ashcan as a dustbin. In the Victorian era, dustbins were made of metal, mainly mild steel. Nowadays, plastic dustbins are available. Among the four types of dustbins, the blue colored one is used for dry garbage and degradable waste; the green one for disposing of recyclable waste, and the red dustbin is for general household waste that cannot be recycled.
3. Why is it called a garbage can and a waste basket
A wastebasket is a small container for collecting indoor waste, but a trash can is a larger waste container for indoor and outdoor use. Waste baskets are generally decorated, but trash cans are usually made from metal or plastic.
4. What is kitchen waste also called?
In the kitchen, different types of residues can be found depending on the lifestyle of a family. The common type of waste that is mostly generated from the kitchen is solid waste. So, kitchen wastes are termed domestic wastes.
5. Are kitchen wastes usable for agricultural purposes?
Any decomposable residues, like fruits, vegetables, fish, meat, etc., can be decomposed to make manure. Once it is decomposed properly, it can be used as a plant nutrient source for different types of crops.
Conclusion
I have reviewed two kitchen trash cans that have variable prices and features. Both cans are good. You can purchase depending on your budget and choice. However, if you are still hesitant to select the best one, I would like to advocate for ‘Amazon basics smudge resistance can’.
This ‘trash can’ glides smoothly with a gentle stroke and soft-close lid to control the nose. The price is affordable, although slightly higher than the Amazon Basics small trash can.
Among the two ‘kitchen trash cans’ discussed in detail, the Amazon Basics smudge-resistant is the best to purchase.
Meta Description
Select the best trash can for your kitchen. ‘Amazon Basics Smudge-Resistant Can’ will make your life easy.