Do you think that your stove is the busiest working item inside your kitchen? Then the answer is a resounding No. Then maybe it is the refrigerator? Well, it might be running all day, but, still, the answer is no. Believe it or not, it is your trash can.
With so many varieties to pick from (ranging from a $5 plastic trash can to a $300 smart trash can), it is not always apparent as to which cans are literally trash and which ones will change your trash and recycling methods completely.
Here are a few trash cans that you can factor in while making your choice for the perfect one.
Strapats Pedal Bin
Capacity – 3 gallons
Dimensions – 9.75 inches in diameter with a height of 16.25 inches
Features
With a capacity of just three gallons, the Strapats will not accommodate your standard kitchen trash bag. However, it is small enough to be put away in the corner of your kitchen. The bin has a handle attached to the back, which makes it easy to move around as is required.
It also has a removable inner bucket which makes taking the trash out pretty effortless. A step-to-open contraption ensures that you don’t have to bend down too much to open the lid. The trash can comes in a variety of colors for you to choose from.
iTouchless Automatic Touchless Trash Can
Capacity -13.2 Gallons
Dimensions – 27.88 inches x 10.75 inches x 12.75 inches
Features
This is a clever trash can that uses an infrared sensor. The sensor is operated by four D-sized batteries or an AC power adaptor that has to be purchased separately. The sensor triggers the lid and causes it to open when it detects any motion within a distance of six inches.
It also contains a deodorizing filter that works pretty efficiently. With a weight of eight pounds, it is certainly heavier than other plastic options, which is a plus in case you have inquisitive pets who like to tip over wastebaskets in order to rifle through the trash.
Simplehuman Rectangular Step Trash Can
Capacity – 10 Gallons
Dimensions – 25.9 inches x 15.8inchesx 12.5 inches
Features
The Sweet Home (a website that lists the best gear and gadgets for people to choose from) picked this specific model as their star performer from among a list of 80 that they have put through the testing grinder.
The product comes with a warranty of five years. So in the unlikely event that the pedal or internal hinge behave erratically, you will be covered. It is on the smaller side in terms of carrying capacity. So if you do not mind taking out the trash every day, this can be a good choice for you. A standard bag of size 13 gallons seems to fit comfortably inside. However, you also can purchase Code J liners from the same brand to get the perfect match.
Simplehuman Butterfly Recycler 40 Liter
Capacity – 10.5 Gallons
Dimensions – 30.5 inches x 10.4 inches x 26 inches
Features
Another highly rated stainless trash can from Simplehuman, this time it comes in a recycling version. Each bin can hold just over five gallons, which should be enough for a days worth of trash.
A standard trash bag can fit into each bin, although it is most likely to get bunched up, causing a waste of plastic. You can purchase the branded Code D liners in case you want an enhanced fit. It has a silent close feature along with a lid split-open for its clearance from below.
A few things that you should note
A standard kitchen trash bag is sized 13 gallons. Normally, this bag will fit into a somewhat smaller trash can with a little folding. Most trash cans available today are sized between 10 to 13 gallons, while 7 gallons or less is better for storing within a cabinet.
Take into consideration your lid options: swing top, step-to-open, lift top, touch-free sensor open. Are you a regular cook who has messy hands often due to making food? Then a touch-free or step-to-open trash can is the one for you. Do you use your oven as a storage place and have a list of take-out joints on speed dial? Then a lift top or swing top should be fine.