Where To Put Trash Can in Kitchen: Tips and Ideas

When it comes to designing a kitchen, one of the most important aspects to consider is where to place the trash can. A well-placed trash can not only keep your kitchen clean and organized but also make your cooking process more efficient. However, finding the perfect spot for your trash can be challenging, especially if you have a small kitchen.

To make the most informed decision on where to put your trash can in the kitchen, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and preferences. We will show you where to place your kitchen trash can while doing kitchen design.

Determining the Best Spot

When it comes to determining the best spot for a trash can in a kitchen, there are several factors to consider. The size of the kitchen, the layout, and the homeowner’s preferences all play a role in deciding where to place the trash can.

One popular option is to keep the trash can under the sink. This is a great choice for those with smaller kitchens or for those who want to keep the trash can out of sight. However, it can be challenging to access the trash can when the sink is in use.

Another option is to keep the trash can next to the oven. This is a good choice for those who do a lot of cooking and want to be able to quickly dispose of food scraps. However, it can take up valuable counter space and may not be the best choice for smaller kitchens.

For those with galley kitchens, a pull-out drawer or tilt-out cabinet may be the best option. This allows for easy access to the trash can without taking up valuable floor space.

Here is an article from House Digest that recommends placing the trash can inside a cabinet. According to residential designer Jackie Schagen, this allows for a clean-up area with a waste pullout on one side, a sink in the middle, and a dishwasher on the other side.

Home Oomph recommends considering the aesthetics of the kitchen when determining the location of the trash can. They suggest placing it in a location that is both convenient to use and away from fresh food.

Under the Sink Trash Can

One of the most popular places to put a trash can in the kitchen is under the sink. This is a great option for those who want to keep their trash out of sight and out of the way. It is also a good option for those with limited space in their kitchen.

To make the most of this space, it is important to choose the right waste container. There are many different types of containers available, including pull-out bins, tilt-out bins, and simple trash cans. It is important to choose a container that fits the size and shape of the cabinet under the sink.

One of the biggest advantages of an under-sink trash can is that it is hidden away. This can be especially beneficial for those who have a small kitchen or who want to keep their kitchen looking neat and tidy. It can also help to reduce odors in the kitchen, as the trash can is not out in the open.

When installing an under-sink trash can, it is important to make sure that it is secure and stable. This can be done by using brackets or other hardware to attach the container to the cabinet. It is also important to choose a container that is easy to remove and empty, as this will make it easier to maintain.

Crafts on Fire also suggests keeping a trash can under the sink, or near the exit of the kitchen.

Pull Out Trash Can

A pull-out trash can is a convenient option for a kitchen as it saves space and keeps the trash out of sight. It is usually installed inside a cabinet and can be easily pulled out when needed.

There are various types of pull-out trash cans available on the market, ranging from single to double bins, with different sizes and shapes. Some are designed to fit under the sink, while others can be installed in a cabinet or pantry.

To install a pull-out trash can, one needs to remove the cabinet door and hinges, assemble the trash can/door mounting kit per manufacturer instructions, and mark screw holes. A handyman or DIY enthusiast can easily install a pull-out trash can with the right tools and instructions.

One advantage of a pull-out trash can is that it keeps the trash out of the reach of pets and children, preventing any accidents. It also helps to keep the kitchen clean and organized by providing a designated space for trash.

Next to the Oven Placement

Placing a trash can next to the oven can be a convenient location for those who cook frequently. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind before making this placement choice.

One concern is the potential heat exposure from the oven. According to a discussion on Houzz, heat from the oven could potentially cause issues with the trash can. It is important to ensure that the trash can is made from materials that can withstand high temperatures. Additionally, it is recommended to leave some space between the oven and the trash can to allow for proper ventilation and prevent any potential fire hazards.

Another consideration is the size of the kitchen and the placement of other kitchen appliances. If the oven is located in a corner or against a wall, placing the trash can next to it may not be the most practical choice. In this case, it may be better to consider other placement options, such as under the sink or in a pull-out drawer.

When considering the placement of a trash can next to the oven, it is important to keep in mind the overall design and flow of the kitchen. A trash can that is too close to the oven or in an awkward location can disrupt the overall aesthetic and functionality of the kitchen.

Trash Can in the Galley

In a galley kitchen, space is at a premium and every inch matters. Finding the right location for your trash can is crucial to keeping the kitchen organized and functional. Here are some tips for placing your trash can in a galley kitchen:

At the end of the galley: If there is no room under the sink, consider placing the trash can at the end of the galley. This location keeps the trash out of the way but still accessible. However, it can be an eyesore if the trash can is not covered or hidden in a cabinet.
In a countertop bin: A countertop bin is a good option for kitchens with limited floor space. It keeps the trash within easy reach and can be emptied into a larger trash can as needed. However, it can take up valuable counter space and may not be the best option for kitchens with limited counter space.

When choosing a trash can for a galley kitchen, consider the size and shape of the can. A slim trash can with a flat back can fit in a narrow slot and rest flush against the wall. Look for a trash can with a lid to keep odors and messes contained.

Under Cabinet Trash Can

Under-cabinet trash can is a great option for those who want to keep their kitchen clean and organized. This type of trash can is installed under the kitchen cabinet and is hidden from view. It is a great way to save space and keep your kitchen looking neat and tidy.

Benefits of an Under Cabinet Trash Can

There are several benefits to having an under-cabinet trash can in your kitchen. Here are a few:

Space-saving: An under-cabinet trash can is a great way to save space in your kitchen. It is installed under the cabinet, which means it doesn’t take up any valuable counter space.
Hidden from view: One of the best things about an under-cabinet trash can is that it is hidden from view. This means that you don’t have to look at an unsightly trash can every time you walk into your kitchen.
Easy to access: Despite being hidden from view, an under-cabinet trash can is still easy to access. You can simply open the cabinet door to dispose of your trash.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the placement of a trash can in the kitchen is an important consideration for both functionality and aesthetics. It is essential to choose a location that is convenient for daily use but also hidden from plain sight to maintain a clean and organized kitchen.

Based on the research, the most popular locations for trash cans in the kitchen are next to the sink and dishwasher, under the kitchen sink, in a tilt-out cabinet, and a pull-out drawer in the clean-up zone. These locations offer easy access to dispose of waste while keeping the trash can hidden from view.

When choosing a location for a trash can in the kitchen, it is also important to consider the type of trash can that will be used. Roll-away bins, countertop bins, and pantry bins are all great options to keep the trash can hidden and out of sight.

FAQs

Where can I hide my kitchen trash?

There are several locations in the kitchen where you can hide your trash can. Some popular options include placing it under the sink, inside a pantry, or in a tilt-out cabinet. These locations keep the trash can out of sight while still being easily accessible.

What are some stylish options for a kitchen trash can?

There are many stylish options for a kitchen trash can, including stainless steel cans, wooden bins, or decorative options that blend in with the decor of your kitchen. You can also choose a can with a lid to keep odors contained and add a touch of style.

Which is the best type of waste bin to use in a kitchen?

The best type of waste bin to use in a kitchen depends on your personal preferences and needs. Some popular options include a pedal bin, a touchless bin, or a pull-out bin. It’s important to choose a bin that is easy to use and fits well in your kitchen space.