Choose the Best Extra Large Kitchen Trash Can For Your Home
Kitchen trash cans come in all shapes and sizes, but for many busy households, standard 13 gallon cans just don't cut it. Large families who cook frequently or homeowners who only get municipal trash pickup every two weeks often need a higher capacity trash can in the kitchen to handle all the waste generated.
Extra large kitchen trash cans with a size and convenience features tailored to your unique needs can be a game changer. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose?
Key Factors To Consider
Picking out the perfect oversized kitchen trash receptacle requires some careful consideration of your space, trash volume, and must-have features. Keep these key factors in mind while shopping.
Size and Capacity
The most important specification for a high capacity kitchen trash can is the interior storage volume. Standard kitchen cans are usually 13 gallons or less. Large capacity cans range from 20 gallons up to 50 gallons (or the equivalent 50 quarts).
Bigger volume means less frequent emptying. A 50 gallon kitchen garbage can could need emptying just once a week or less for many households. Just make sure to measure the space under cabinets to ensure the larger can will fit.
For extreme trash needs exceeding 50 gallons, some wheeled trash cans used in garages can work. But kitchens do best with cans sized to fit the space.
Dimensions and Placement
Since oversized trash receptacles have bigger inner buckets, they also have larger outer dimensions. Height ranges from 25-35 inches for extra capacity cans, with width spanning 10-20 inches depending on the shape.
Carefully measure the area where you want to place your kitchen garbage can, including under counters and in corners, to find cans that will fit. Allow a few inches of clearance around the sides so swinging lids can open fully without obstruction.
Cans placed under cabinets may need to be narrower to fit in the kickspace. Corner placements allow for wider oval or rectangular shapes. Prioritize ease of use and access over fitting the absolute largest can.
Features and Convenience
Hauling out heavy trash bags from an oversized can placed under cabinets can be challenging. Seek models with features to make trash disposal easier.
Hands-free operation is a must. Step pedals allow you to easily open the lid without manual contact. Motion sensor lids detect when you need to throw trash away and pop open automatically.
For containing messes and odors, look for tight sealing lids. Some slide or swing open then gently close. Internal hinges prevent snapping. Antimicrobial treatments also help reduce germs and smells.
Inner buckets that lift out make taking bagged trash out a breeze. Liners and removable bins add convenience too.
Materials and Durability
Sturdy materials prevent dents, scratches, and corrosion from daily heavy use. Stainless steel is most durable but costs more than plastic.
Plastic trash cans resist odors and as affordable, but thinner plastic scuffs easier. Seek thick, heavy duty plastic for rigidity. Metal holds up well too but can show dings over time.
The best oversized kitchen trash can materials come down to the right balance of durability and budget for your needs.
Style and Appearance
Even huge trash cans should look decent in your kitchen! Choose colors like white, black, or silver that blend into your decor. Metal finishes like brushed nickel also complement most color schemes.
For a fully integrated look, choose pull-out cabinet style trash cans. They mount inside cabinets and hide the trash away when not in use. Freestanding cans should still coordinate and not clash with your overall kitchen aesthetic.
Reviews of the Best Extra Large Kitchen Trash Cans
Now that you know what to look for in an oversized kitchen trash can, here are three top rated options to consider.
Simplehuman 50 Liter Can
With a narrow 20" diameter footprint and 50 liter capacity, Simplehuman's stainless steel trash can is an excellent oversized option for tight spaces.
The strong steel pedal allows hands-free opening, and the lid closes gently and quietly thanks to an integrated damper. A non-skid base prevents sliding or tipping. An inner liner bucket simplifies lifting out trash.
While pricier than plastic, the brushed stainless steel looks sleek and withstands messes and wear. The 5 year warranty provides peace of mind. Just avoid overpacking or the narrower shape can make trash removal tougher.
Overall, Simplehuman's 50 liter slim can is a durable and stylish high capacity pick ideal for smaller kitchens.
Hefty Ultra Strong 50 Gallon Can
For an affordable oversized option, Hefty's 50 gallon steel trash can is tough to beat. The tall kitchen garbage can comes in at under $50 but doesn't skimp on quality or features.
Dual step pedals make opening a hands-free experience from any angle. The snapping lid and thicker plastic walls prevent cracks and leaks. Angled sides and a wide rectangular shape maximize holding capacity.
Though not as sleek looking as metal cans, the Hefty Ultra Strong gets the job done if you want simple, spacious, and budget friendly. Just expect some scuffs and scratches over time with heavy use.
Rev-A-Shelf 50 Quart Pull Out Cabinet Can
If you want your oversized kitchen trash can hidden away, Rev-A-Shelf makes pull out style cans that mount inside cabinets for a built-in look.
At 50 quarts, it provides ample capacity. The smooth metal gliders allow you to pull the framed trash can out when needed, then tuck back into the cabinet when done. A motion damper ensures quiet, controlled open and close.
Installation takes advanced DIY or professional skills. But for a seamlessly integrated kitchen look, a pull out cabinet mount trash can is worth the effort and provides needed capacity.
Key Considerations When Selecting Your Can
Choosing the ideal high capacity kitchen trash can for your home depends on several considerations:
- Available space under cabinets or in corners to fit larger cans
- Volume of trash generated by your household weekly
- Convenience features needed, like step pedals or swinging lids
- Aesthetic preferences - colors, shapes, and visible vs. hidden cans
- Budget - weighing extra features against needs
Measure your kitchen and estimate trash volumes carefully. Prioritize hands-free use and odor control. With so many options, keep your must have features and space constraints in mind.
From Simplehuman's sleek 50 liter stainless steel can to Hefty's budget-friendly 50 gallon plastic model to Rev-A-Shelf's hidden pull out style, today's oversized kitchen trash cans combine ample capacity and convenient features.
Before selecting the best extra large trash can, carefully assess your kitchen space, trash requirements, and desired features. Measure meticulously and seek durable materials, tight sealing lids, and hands-free access. With the right oversized kitchen garbage can, you can finally say goodbye to frequent trips out to the dumpster.