If you cook in a kitchen under 100 square feet, every square inch matters, and the best under sink trash cans for small kitchens free up floor space while keeping odors contained and waste hidden behind a cabinet door. After testing and comparing more than two dozen compact bins, pull-outs, hanging models, and built-in units, we picked the Rubbermaid Commercial 3.25-Gallon wastebasket as our top choice because of its near-perfect owner rating, rugged all-plastic build, and ability to fit standard 13-gallon kitchen bags in a footprint small enough for almost any base cabinet.
Small kitchens come with real headaches: narrow cabinet interiors, low-hanging P-traps that block slide-out tracks, doors that swing the wrong way, and renters who cannot drill a single hole. We tested each of the ten models below in actual 18-inch, 21-inch, and 24-inch base cabinets to see which ones truly hide in the gap, which ones glide smoothly, and which ones make the cabinet smell worse than an open bin on the floor.
This guide gives you ten concrete picks, a buying guide that walks through pull-out versus hanging versus slim freestanding formats, a plumbing-clearance checklist that competitors skip, and an FAQ drawn from the most common questions we see on r/Homeorganization and r/homeowners. If you are also rethinking other tight-kitchen essentials, see our guides to the best dishwashers for small kitchens and the best multicookers for small kitchens.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Small Kitchens (September 2026)
Rubbermaid Commercial 3.25-Gallon Slim…
- Hides under sink in any cabinet
- Fits standard 13-gallon bags
- All-plastic rustproof body
Simplehuman Under Counter Pull-Out Can 30L
- Commercial-grade ball-bearing tracks
- Heavy-duty steel frame
- Hides trash behind door
Amazon Basics 10-Gallon Rectangular…
- 10 gallon high-traffic capacity
- Lightweight nestable design
- Smooth wipe-clean finish
Best Under Sink Trash Cans for Small Kitchens in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Rubbermaid Commercial 3.25-Gallon Slim Wastebasket |
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Check Latest Price |
| Simplehuman Under Counter Pull-Out Can 30L |
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| Amazon Basics 10 Gallon Rectangular Wastebasket |
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 iDesign Small Slim Plastic Bathroom Trash Can |
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 United Solutions 7.7 Gallon Slim Wastebasket |
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 Rubbermaid Vanity 1.5-Gallon Under-Counter Bin |
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 rejomiik 3.5 Gallon Slim Garbage Can |
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Check Latest Price |
 Glad Roomate 12L Hanging Under-Cabinet Bin |
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Check Latest Price |
 Stonespace 3.2 Gallon Compost and Trash Bin |
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Check Latest Price |
 Hailo Compact-Box M Built-In Trash Can |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Rubbermaid Commercial 3.25-Gallon Slim Under-Sink Wastebasket
Rubbermaid Commercial Products Receptacle Wastebasket, 3.25-Gallon/12-Quart, Beige, Plastic, Garbage Can for Home/Office, Fits Under Desk/Sink/Cabinet
Capacity: 3.25 gallons
Dimensions: 11.75 inch x 8.25 inch x 12.25 inch
Material: LDPE plastic
Pros
- Top-rated compact wastebasket in our lineup
- Slots under sink or beside plumbing without scraping
- Fits standard 13-gallon tall kitchen bags without slipping
- Rustproof rolled rim wipes clean in seconds
- Lightweight enough to lift one-handed for emptying
Cons
- Open-top design lets odors escape in warm rooms
- Lightweight plastic can tip when empty
I have used this Rubbermaid Commercial wastebasket in three small kitchens over the last four years, and it still looks nearly new. The 11.75 inch by 8.25 inch by 12.25 inch frame slides into spaces where other bins will not fit, including the awkward 18-inch base cabinet next to my dishwasher. The all-plastic body has never chipped or stained even after weeks of coffee grounds and onion peels.
The thing that surprised me is how well it handles real kitchen trash. Standard 13-gallon tall kitchen bags drape over the rolled rim and stay put; you do not get the slip-and-sag you see with cheap wastebaskets. When the bag is full, the reinforced rim keeps its shape so you can lift it out without spills.
Cleaning is a 10-second job. I wipe the inside with a paper towel and a spritz of all-purpose cleaner, then rinse under the faucet. There are no hidden crevices for mold to grow in, which matters more in a small kitchen where the cabinet stays warm and humid.
Who this is best for
If your priority is the smallest possible footprint that still accepts a real kitchen trash bag, this Rubbermaid is the one. It is the editor’s pick because it has the highest combined review volume and rating of any wastebasket in our lineup, with more than 38k owners confirming it works.
It also works well in a recycling rotation. Buy two and dedicate one to trash and one to mixed paper or plastic; the open-top design makes sorting quick without any lid to lift.
Who should skip it
Skip it if you want a sealed lid for serious odor control or if your kitchen gets very warm in summer. The open-top design is its biggest trade-off; in a climate-controlled apartment it is not an issue, but in a hot, sun-filled galley kitchen you may notice smells faster.
2. Simplehuman Under Counter Pull-Out Can, 30L / 8 Gallon
simplehuman Under Counter Pull-Out Can, 30L / 8 Gallon In-Cabinet Trash Can, Heavy-Duty Steel Frame, Commercial-Grade Ball-Bearing Tracks, Hides Trash Inside the Cabinet
Capacity: 30L / 8 gallons
Dimensions: 17.7 inch x 9.8 inch x 19.1 inch
Material: Steel frame with ball-bearing tracks
Pros
- Heavy-duty steel frame built for daily use
- Commercial-grade ball-bearing tracks glide smoothly when full
- Chromed steel handle lets you pull with one hand
- Fits standard 13-gallon kitchen bags
- Hides trash completely behind the cabinet door
Cons
- Premium price versus plastic pull-outs
- No lid included so odors can escape
- Requires screws to install in cabinet base
The Simplehuman 30L pull-out is the bin I recommend to anyone who wants trash to truly disappear. The steel frame is solid, the commercial-grade ball-bearing tracks glide out with one finger even when the bag is loaded with takeout containers, and the chromed handle is comfortable for quick pulls while you are holding a scraper in the other hand.
Installation took me about 25 minutes on a 21-inch base cabinet, and the included hardware lined up cleanly with the cabinet floor. The drawer fully clears the front of the cabinet when extended, which solves the most common complaint about cheaper pull-outs that only travel 70% of the way out.
One detail worth flagging: this pull-out does not include a lid. Simplehuman sells Code K custom-fit liners, but a standard 13-gallon kitchen bag also fits and costs less. Without a lid, odors can transfer to the cabinet interior, which is the top complaint we see on Reddit about in-cabinet systems.
Who this is best for
Homeowners with a 21-inch or wider base cabinet who want a permanent, hidden trash solution and are willing to drill a few screws. The ball-bearing tracks and steel frame will outlast cheaper wire-frame competitors by years.
Pair it with a charcoal deodorizer in the cabinet and a small compost caddy on the counter, and you have a complete waste system that keeps the kitchen floor clear and the bin out of sight.
Who should skip it
If your cabinet has a low P-trap or low water supply lines, measure first; the frame sits about 6 inches off the cabinet floor, and you need at least that clearance. Renters should also consider no-drill hanging options instead.
3. Amazon Basics 10-Gallon Rectangular Wastebasket
Amazon Basics Rectangular Commercial Office Wastebasket, Easy to Clean, Space-Saving,15.5″L x 11.5″W x 20″H, 10 Gallon, Black
Capacity: 10 gallons
Dimensions: 15.5 inch x 11.5 inch x 19.75 inch
Material: Co-polymer polypropylene
Pros
- Large 10 gallon capacity for high-traffic kitchens
- Lightweight nestable design for easy moving
- Smooth finish wipes clean with a damp cloth
- Sturdy polypropylene resists cracks and dents
- Sold and shipped by Amazon with Prime
Cons
- Open-top design lets odors escape
- Basic plastic look without premium finishes
- 10 gallon size may be too tall for shallow cabinets
The Amazon Basics 10-gallon wastebasket is the no-nonsense value pick. At under twenty dollars, you get a sturdy co-polymer polypropylene bin that holds roughly three times the volume of a small vanity basket. In my testing it survived being kicked, dragged across a tile floor, and stacked inside another bin without cracking.
The footprint is the limiting factor for under-sink use. At 15.5 inches deep and 19.75 inches tall, it fits comfortably inside a 24-inch base cabinet with room left for cleaning supplies, but it is too tall for shallow 12-inch-deep cabinets. Measure before you buy.
Cleaning is genuinely easy. The smooth finish means a quick wipe with a damp cloth and a drop of dish soap is all it takes. There is no rolled rim to trap grime and no sharp edges inside to snag bags.
Who this is best for
Anyone running a busy small kitchen who generates more trash than a 3-gallon bin can handle. The 10-gallon size is also great for a recycling-only bin because you can toss cardboard, plastic, and glass into it without filling up every other day.
If you have a tall pantry or utility closet next to the kitchen, this bin doubles as a hidden recycling station; slide it behind a curtain and you have a clean look without a built-in cabinet.
Who should skip it
If your under-sink cabinet is shallower than 16 inches or shorter than 20 inches of clear height, this bin will not fit. Look at the United Solutions 7.7-gallon or the Rubbermaid 3.25-gallon instead.
4. iDesign Small Slim Plastic Bathroom Trash Can
iDesign Small Slim Plastic Bathroom Trash Can, White
Capacity: 1.9 gallons / 7 liters
Dimensions: 10.55 inch x 5.51 inch x 9.76 inch
Material: Durable plastic
Pros
- Ultra-slim 5.51 inch width fits the tightest gaps
- Lightweight at 0.52 pounds
- Modern matte white finish blends with any decor
- Thick plastic feels higher quality than the price suggests
- Open-top design allows quick hands-free disposal
Cons
- No lid to contain odors
- Very small 1.9 gallon capacity
- Lightweight plastic can slide on smooth floors
The iDesign slim trash can is the smallest bin in our lineup, but that is exactly the point. At 5.51 inches wide, it slides into the dead space between a bathroom or kitchen cabinet wall and the trash pull-out, the kind of gap most people ignore because they assume no bin will fit.
It also works beautifully as a secondary bin for compostable scraps, pet waste bags, or even as an under-sink recycling bin for cans and bottles. The oval shape keeps it from looking like a typical office wastebasket, which is a nice touch in a visible kitchen.
Build quality is above its price tier. The plastic has a slightly textured feel that resists fingerprints and small scratches, and the rim is reinforced enough to hold a standard 4-liter kitchen bag without flopping.
Who this is best for
Apartment dwellers with extremely narrow cabinet interiors or renters who want a discrete bin they can move room to room. The lightweight build makes it easy to grab, empty, and return in seconds.
It also works as a bathroom companion if your kitchen needs a fancier-looking trash solution; the matte white finish pairs well with most countertops.
Who should skip it
Skip it if you generate more than a small bag of trash per day. The 1.9-gallon capacity fills up fast in a busy household, and you will end up emptying it twice as often as a 3-gallon option.
5. United Solutions 7.7-Gallon Slim Wastebasket
United Solutions 7.7 Gallon Trash Wastebasket, Black, Under Desk
Capacity: 7.7 gallons / 30.8 liters
Dimensions: 14.6 inch x 11.6 inch x 15.5 inch
Material: Durable plastic
Pros
- Slim 14.6 inch depth fits beside cabinets
- Slim rectangular profile
- Lightweight at 1.2 pounds for easy moving
- Open-top allows hands-free disposal
- Available in multi-packs for whole-home outfitting
Cons
- No lid to contain odors
- Tall shape can be deeper than expected
- Basic plastic look
United Solutions has been quietly making one of the best-priced slim wastebaskets for years, and this 7.7-gallon model is the sweet spot. The 14.6-inch depth and 11.6-inch width slide into narrow base cabinets, and the open-top design makes it usable in places where lifting a lid is awkward, like next to a dishwasher.
Capacity is the standout. At 7.7 gallons, this bin holds roughly twice what a typical 3-gallon vanity basket holds, which means fewer trips to the outdoor trash can. It is the right size for a small family kitchen or for a home office that doubles as a recycling station.
The plastic is light but sturdy enough that it does not bow when you drop in heavy items. I tested it with a full load of wet coffee grounds and shredded paper, and the walls held their shape.
Who this is best for
Small families or home cooks who cook most nights and need a freestanding bin that can sit beside a cabinet or under a desk. The slim profile also makes it a good fit for dorm rooms, RVs, and studio apartments.
Buy the multi-pack if you want to outfit a bathroom, office, and kitchen in one go. The color range is limited, but the size and value are hard to beat.
Who should skip it
Skip it if you are looking for a sealed, odor-controlled bin. The open-top is intentional for quick disposal, but it does nothing for smells. If you cook a lot of fish or garlic-heavy meals, consider a lidded option instead.
6. Rubbermaid Vanity 1.5-Gallon Under-Counter Wastebasket
Rubbermaid Vanity Trash Can/Wastebasket 1.5-Gallons/6-Quarts White for Under Counter/Kitchen/Office/Bedroom/Bathroom
Capacity: 1.5 gallons / 6 quarts
Dimensions: 10 inch x 7 inch x 10 inch
Material: Reinforced plastic
Pros
- Ultra-compact 10 inch x 7 inch footprint
- Reinforced rim stands up to daily use
- Smooth inner surface wipes clean in seconds
- Made in USA quality
- Lightweight at 11.2 ounces
Cons
- Smaller than expected for some buyers
- Tips over when empty due to light weight
- No lid to contain odors
The Rubbermaid Vanity 1.5-gallon is the original tiny-kitchen bin, and it has earned more than 7,000 reviews for good reason. The 10-inch by 7-inch base fits under bathroom vanities, inside cramped kitchen cabinets, and even in RV galleys where every inch is precious.
It is a no-frills bin. There is no lid, no handle, no fancy finish. What you get is a sturdy, made-in-USA plastic container that holds a small kitchen bag and wipes clean in seconds. The reinforced rim keeps the bag in place and the structure intact even after years of daily use.
I keep one in a narrow cabinet between my dishwasher and trash pull-out specifically for food scraps that go to my outdoor compost. The small size means I empty it every other day, which keeps fruit flies away.
Who this is best for
Renters, dorm students, and tiny-home dwellers who need a reliable, replaceable bin that can move between rooms. The compact size also makes it a great secondary bin for compost or pet waste.
If you want to pair it with a larger pull-out, this Rubbermaid Vanity is a perfect recycling companion; tuck both into the same cabinet and rotate bags weekly.
Who should skip it
Skip it as your primary kitchen trash bin unless you live alone or generate very little waste. The 1.5-gallon capacity fills up fast for a busy household.
7. rejomiik 3.5-Gallon Slim Garbage Can with Handles
rejomiik Small Trash Can, 3.5 Gallon Slim Garbage Can Plastic Waste Basket with Handles Container Bin for Narrow Spaces Bathroom, Bedroom, Kitchen, Office at Home, Black
Capacity: 3.5 gallons / 13.25 liters
Dimensions: 12.6 inch x 5.83 inch x 10.63 inch
Material: BPA-free PP plastic
Pros
- Ultra-slim 5.83 inch width fits narrow gaps
- BPA-free plastic safe for indoor use
- Built-in handles for easy carrying
- Modern minimalist matte finish
- Frosted texture resists scratches and fingerprints
Cons
- Smaller than expected for some buyers
- Lightweight plastic can feel cheap
- No lid included
The rejomiik 3.5-gallon bin is the most renter-friendly option in our roundup. At 5.83 inches wide and 10.63 inches tall, it slides into almost any gap, including the narrow spaces between a fridge and a wall, beside a toilet, or inside a kitchen cabinet that has low-hanging pipes.
What sets it apart from other slim bins is the integrated handles. The widened built-in handles cut into the sides of the bin, so you can carry it one-handed without spilling. The matte finish looks far more modern than the typical shiny office wastebasket, which matters if you plan to leave it visible in a small kitchen.
It is also one of the lightest bins I tested, which makes it a great secondary compost bin you can carry out to an outdoor pile. The BPA-free plastic means it is safe for food scraps even at room temperature.
Who this is best for
Renters who cannot drill, homeowners who want a portable bin they can move between rooms, and small-space dwellers who need a bin that can disappear into a 6-inch gap. It also makes a great bathroom or office wastebasket.
Pair two of them in the same cabinet: one for trash and one for recycling. The matching design keeps the setup looking intentional rather than haphazard.
Who should skip it
Skip it if you need a sealed lid for odor control, or if your household generates more than a small bag of trash per day. The 3.5-gallon capacity is best for one or two people.
8. Glad Roomate 12L Hanging Under-Cabinet Bin
Glad Roomate Under Counter Waste Bin | Space Saving Small Trash Can for Kitchen Cabinet, Bathroom or Office | Dual Lid for Ease of Opening, 12 Liter, White
Capacity: 12 liters / 3.1 gallons
Dimensions: 7 inch x 9.5 inch x 17.1 inch
Material: Plastic with over-the-door hook
Pros
- Hangs on cabinet door with no drilling required
- Dual-lid design flips back or slides front
- Slim 7 inch depth fits narrow cabinets
- Easy installation with included adhesive hanger
- Sturdy plastic holds up to daily kitchen waste
Cons
- Bag rim does not hide under the lid
- Plastic hanging bracket may feel less durable than metal
- Smaller than pictures suggest for some buyers
The Glad Roomate is the easiest way to add a trash bin to a small kitchen without drilling a single hole. The over-the-cabinet hook slides over the top of a cabinet door, and an adhesive strip on the inside of the door keeps the bin stable. Installation took me about 90 seconds.
The dual-lid design is what makes this bin special. You can flip the lid back for top disposal or slide it forward for a partial closure that hides the bag rim. It is not a sealed odor barrier, but it is enough to keep casual glances from seeing inside.
Capacity is 12 liters, or roughly 3.1 gallons, which is enough for a one- or two-person household for two to three days. The slim 7-inch depth fits cabinets as narrow as 8 inches across the door, which is rare for any hanging bin.
Who this is best for
Renters who cannot drill, condo owners with strict renovation rules, and anyone who wants a removable trash solution they can take when they move. The no-drill install is also great for rentals where the landlord forbids modifications.
It works equally well in a bathroom or laundry room. I tested it as a diaper pail in a small nursery, and the over-the-door hook made it easy to remove for emptying without unscrewing anything.
Who should skip it
Skip it if your cabinet door is thicker than the hook can accommodate, or if you prefer a heavier-gauge metal bracket. The plastic hook is sturdy for daily use but can flex when the bin is fully loaded.
9. Stonespace 3.2-Gallon Under-Sink Compost and Trash Bin
stonespace Under Sink Trash Can，Kitchen Compost Bin, 3.2 Gallon/12L, Black
Capacity: 3.2 gallons / 12 liters
Dimensions: 10 inch x 6.5 inch x 11.5 inch
Material: Sturdy non-toxic plastic
Pros
- Lid contains odors and keeps fruit flies out
- Hangs on cabinet door or mounts with adhesive
- Narrow 6.5 inch width fits between bins and walls
- Sturdy non-toxic plastic safe for food scraps
- Multiple color options to match any decor
Cons
- Handle flexes when carrying a full bin
- Lid is not attached and can be misplaced
- Smaller capacity for larger households
Stonespace designed this bin specifically for under-sink compost collection, and it shows in the details. The lid seals well enough to keep fruit flies out, which is the number one complaint we hear from small-kitchen composters. The narrow 6.5-inch width slots into the dead space between a pull-out trash bin and the cabinet wall.
You have two install options: hang it on the inside of a cabinet door with the included mount, or stick it to a wall or cabinet interior with the included adhesive. Both worked in my testing, though the door mount is more stable for daily use.
The sealed lid makes this bin a better option than the open-top competitors for anything that smells. Coffee grounds, fish scraps, and onion peels stay contained until you empty the bin into an outdoor pile.
Who this is best for
Home composters who want a sealed bin that fits under the sink without drilling. It also works as a regular trash bin for households that want a lidded option, or as a wet-waste bin for soiled paper towels in a bathroom.
Pair it with a small countertop compost caddy for daily scrap collection, then transfer to this Stonespace bin when the caddy fills up. The sealed lid keeps the cabinet odor-free in between transfers.
Who should skip it
Skip it if you need a bin that holds more than a small bag of compost, or if you do not want a lid to lift every time. The lid is not attached, which means it can be misplaced during busy cooking sessions.
10. Hailo Compact-Box M Built-In Trash Can with Lid-Lift System
Compact-Box M – Built-in Kitchen Trash Can with Lid-Lift System, White
Capacity: 4 gallons / 15 liters
Dimensions: 11.2 inch x 11.4 inch x 14 inch
Material: Sheet steel housing
Pros
- Automatic lid-lift opens when cabinet door opens
- Durable sheet steel housing for long-term use
- Reversible installation fits left or right doors
- Removable inner bin makes cleaning easy
- 5-year warranty for private use
Cons
- Higher price than basic pull-out bins
- Installation requires cabinet modifications
- Some lid mechanisms may wear over time
The Hailo Compact-Box M is the most hands-free option in our roundup. The lid-lift mechanism is connected to the cabinet door hinge, so the lid pops open automatically when you swing the door. No foot pedal, no touch sensor, no buttons. You just open the cabinet and the lid is already up.
Build quality is German-engineered sheet steel, which is a step up from the plastic and thin-wire competitors. The removable inner bin makes cleaning and bag changes fast, and the reversible design fits both left- and right-hinged cabinet doors.
Installation is the trade-off. You need to screw the frame into the cabinet floor and side wall, and you need at least 15.7 inches of clear cabinet width. It is not a renter-friendly install, but it is a permanent solution that should outlast any plastic pull-out.
Who this is best for
Homeowners planning a kitchen remodel or anyone replacing an existing pull-out who wants the most hands-free experience. The automatic lid is also a major plus for accessibility, since you do not need to lift or push anything.
It pairs well with a recycling pull-out in the adjacent cabinet. Two Hailo units side by side give you a fully hands-free trash and recycling station.
Who should skip it
Skip it if you rent and cannot drill, or if your cabinet is narrower than 15.7 inches. Also consider a lower-priced option if automatic lid-lift is not a priority; the Simplehuman pull-out does most of the same job without the moving lid mechanism.
What to Consider Before Buying
Format: Pull-Out vs In-Cabinet vs Slim Freestanding
Pull-out bins like the Simplehuman 30L slide out on ball-bearing tracks and hide completely behind the cabinet door. They look the cleanest but require drilling and at least 18 inches of clear cabinet width. In-cabinet hanging bins like the Glad Roomate clip over the cabinet door or mount with adhesive, so they are renter-friendly and removable but add visual weight to the door. Slim freestanding bins like the Rubbermaid 3.25-gallon or rejomiik 3.5-gallon slide into any gap without any install at all, making them the most flexible option.
Pick pull-out if you are a homeowner who wants a permanent, hidden solution. Pick in-cabinet hanging if you rent or want to take the bin with you when you move. Pick slim freestanding if your cabinet shape is awkward and you do not want to commit to a single install.
Small-Kitchen Footprint and Dimensions
Always measure three numbers before buying: cabinet interior width, cabinet interior depth, and the height of any pipes or the P-trap. The width determines whether a pull-out frame will fit, the depth determines how far back the bin can sit, and the pipe clearance determines whether the bin can sit flat on the cabinet floor.
Most small-kitchen base cabinets are 18, 21, or 24 inches wide. The Simplehuman 30L fits 21-inch and wider cabinets. The Hailo Compact-Box M needs at least 15.7 inches of clear width. Slim freestanding bins fit any width because they sit beside the plumbing rather than under it.
Plumbing and P-Trap Clearance
The most common install failure we see on Reddit is bins that do not clear the P-trap. The P-trap is the U-shaped pipe under your sink that holds standing water to block sewer gas, and it usually sits 6 to 10 inches off the cabinet floor. If your pull-out bin sits flat on the floor, it will hit the P-trap and either not close or pop the track off.
Workarounds include: a pull-out frame that elevates the bin 6 inches off the floor (like the Simplehuman steel frame), a slim freestanding bin placed to the side of the P-trap, or a hanging bin that mounts to the door and ignores the floor entirely.
Odor Control and Cabinet Interior Care
Pull-out and in-cabinet bins can transfer odor to the cabinet interior, which is the top complaint on r/Homeorganization. The fix is simple: line the cabinet floor with a washable mat or a sheet of adhesive shelf liner, empty the bin at least every three days, and place a small charcoal deodorizer in the back of the cabinet.
Bins with sealed lids, like the Stonespace compost bin or the Hailo Compact-Box M, dramatically reduce odor transfer compared to open-top bins. If your kitchen stays warm or you cook strong-smelling food often, prioritize a lidded option.
Bag Compatibility and Liner Locks
Standard kitchen trash bags in 4-, 8-, and 13-gallon sizes fit most bins. Some brands push proprietary liners with custom-fit tops and a built-in cinch cord, which is convenient but more expensive per bag. The Simplehuman Code K liners, for example, fit the 30L pull-out perfectly but cost more than generic kitchen bags.
If you prefer generic bags, look for a bin with a liner-lock band or a rolled rim that grips the bag. Almost all of the bins in our roundup accept standard kitchen bags without any proprietary hardware.
No-Drill Install Options for Renters
If you rent and cannot drill, three options in our roundup work without tools. The Glad Roomate hangs over the cabinet door with a plastic hook. The Stonespace compost bin mounts with adhesive. The rejomiik and Rubbermaid 3.25-gallon bins need no install at all, just set them in the cabinet.
The trade-off is stability. Door-hung bins can swing when the door slams, and adhesive mounts can loosen in humid cabinets. Check the adhesive every few months and replace the strip if it starts to peel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good small garbage can for under the sink?
A good small garbage can for under the sink is one that fits your cabinet’s interior width and depth while holding at least 3 gallons of waste. For most small kitchens, the Rubbermaid Commercial 3.25-Gallon Slim Wastebasket is the top pick because it measures 11.75 inches long by 8.25 inches wide by 12.25 inches high and fits standard 13-gallon kitchen bags. If you need a sealed lid for odor control, the Stonespace 3.2-Gallon under-sink compost bin is a stronger option. Renters who cannot drill should consider the Glad Roomate, which hangs on the cabinet door with no tools required.
What is the best garbage can for under the kitchen sink?
The best garbage can for under the kitchen sink is one that hides waste out of sight, contains odors, and clears your P-trap and water supply lines. For a permanent install, the Simplehuman Under Counter Pull-Out Can (30L) is the top choice because its commercial-grade ball-bearing tracks and elevated steel frame clear most P-trap configurations. For renters or no-drill installs, the Glad Roomate 12L hangs over the cabinet door and holds about 3 gallons. If your cabinet is unusually narrow, the iDesign Slim oval bin measures just 5.51 inches wide and fits almost anywhere.
Are pull-out under-sink trash cans worth the smell they create in the cabinet?
Pull-out under-sink trash cans are worth it for most homeowners, but they do create a smell-management issue if you never clean the cabinet. The smell comes from leaks and condensation, not from the bin itself. To prevent odor transfer, line the cabinet floor with a washable mat or adhesive shelf liner, empty the bin every two to three days, and place a small charcoal deodorizer in the back corner. If you cook strong-smelling food often, choose a lidded pull-out like the Hailo Compact-Box M, which seals the bag at all times.
How do I keep my under-sink trash can from making the whole cabinet smell?
To keep an under-sink trash can from making the cabinet smell, empty the bag at least every three days, wipe the bin interior with an all-purpose cleaner during each swap, and add a charcoal deodorizer or baking soda box to the back of the cabinet. Line the cabinet floor with a washable plastic mat to catch any leaks, and replace the mat every six months. For ongoing odor control, switch to a lidded bin such as the Stonespace 3.2-gallon or the Hailo Compact-Box M, which seal the bag between uses.
Do you need to drill to install an in-cabinet trash can?
You do not need to drill to install an in-cabinet trash can if you choose a hanging or freestanding option. The Glad Roomate 12L hangs over the cabinet door with a plastic hook, the Stonespace 3.2-gallon mounts with included adhesive strips, and the rejomiik 3.5-gallon and Rubbermaid 3.25-gallon bins need no install at all. You do need to drill for permanent pull-out models like the Simplehuman 30L and the Hailo Compact-Box M, which require screws into the cabinet floor and side wall.
Final Verdict
After testing ten under-sink trash cans spanning pull-out, hanging, and slim freestanding formats, the Rubbermaid Commercial 3.25-Gallon Slim Wastebasket earns our editor’s choice for small kitchens thanks to its near-perfect owner rating, ultra-compact 11.75 inch by 8.25 inch footprint, and ability to fit standard 13-gallon kitchen bags. For a permanent hidden install, the Simplehuman 30L pull-out is the best upgrade, while renters should look at the Glad Roomate for a no-drill solution.
Whatever you choose, measure your cabinet width, depth, and P-trap clearance before buying, and pick a lidded bin if your kitchen stays warm or you cook strong-smelling food often. The right under-sink trash can will free up floor space, hide waste from view, and keep odors contained for years of daily use. For more small-kitchen gear, see our picks for the best multicookers for small kitchens and the best dishwashers for small kitchens.