12 Best Dual Trash Cans
HIGH-QUALITY DUAL RECYCLING BINS
Author: Pim Brouwer
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Are you looking for a durable trash can for sorting recycling and trash? Then you need a dual trash can. This is a ‘one bin’ solution for separating and sorting your waste streams at home, in the kitchen, or in the office’s canteen.
Our team researched various trash cans with 2-compartments. We’ve made a selection of high-quality recycling bins from trusted brands, which you can find below. Our top pick for most people is the SONGMICS dual trash can. It is a great bin to sort all your recyclables and general trash.
Top 10 Trash & Recycle Bins
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SONGMICS Dual Trash Can – 16 Gallon
Separate your trash and recycling with ease and style
The SONGMICS Dual Trash Can is a very popular double trash can. It is perfect for anyone who wants a simple and elegant solution for separating their trash and recycling in the kitchen. We like that this two-in-one trash can is made of sturdy and easy-to-clean powder-coated stainless steel. The pedal operation and the soft-close lid make it easy to use without touching or slamming. The two removable buckets with handles are very handy for emptying and cleaning. This recycling bin comes with 15 trash bags that fit perfectly inside the buckets. We think this trash can has a lasting quality and appearance, it is easy to remove the inner containers and empty them into outdoor recycling garbage cans. We recommend this product to anyone who wants a dual trash can that is practical, elegant, and eco-friendly.
- Capacity: 16 Gallons
- Dimensions: 23.2 x 12.8 x 25.7 inches
- Material: Powder-coated stainless steel
- Closure: Pedal-operated soft-close lid
simplehuman Rectangular Kitchen Recycler – 12.2 Gallon
Efficiently and sustainably sort your trash and recyclables
The simplehuman 46 Liter / 12.2 Gallon dual-compartment recycler is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a way to efficiently and sustainably sort your trash and recyclables. This product boasts a sturdy steel pedal that can withstand years of use, patented lid-shox technology that ensures a slow and quiet close, and a convenient stay-open feature for easy bag changes and longer cleaning tasks. Additionally, the non-skid base is equipped with gentle rubber pads to prevent floor scratches and sliding. The removable inner buckets make cleaning and emptying a breeze, while the fingerprint-proof finish keeps the stainless steel polished and smudge-free. This sleek and stylish trash can is a game-changer for small spaces, providing separate compartments for trash and recycling in one elegant design. We highly recommend this durable and convenient dual trash can to anyone in search of a practical and sophisticated solution.
- Capacity: 12.2 Gallons
- Dimensions: 12.8 x 19.8 x 25.7 inches
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Closure: Step
EcoCasa II Recycle Step Trash Can – 15.8 Gallon
Keep your kitchen clean and sort your waste and recyclables efficiently
The EcoCasa II Recycle Step Trash Can is a great option for people who want to separate their waste and recyclables in one convenient bin. We like how it has two removable compartments with different capacities and colors to make sorting easier. The pedal mechanism is sturdy and smooth, and the soft-close lid prevents any loud noises or damage to the can. The stainless steel finish is sleek and easy to clean, and the deodorizer compartment helps keep odors at bay. The trash can also has a slim design that fits well in any kitchen space, and a stay-open lid feature that allows for hands-free disposal. The only downside is that it might be a bit pricey for some budgets, but we think it’s worth the investment for its quality and functionality.
- Capacity: 15.8 Gallons
- Dimensions: 20.7 x 14.7 x 25.9 inches
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Closure: Soft-Close Lid
simplehuman Dual Compartment Trash Can – 15.3 Gallon
Streamline your waste management with this high-quality, durable, and efficient trash can.
The simplehuman Dual Compartment Trash Can is a high-quality, durable, and efficient product that is perfect for anyone looking to streamline their kitchen waste management. The stainless steel liner rim flips up for easy liner change and securely holds the liner in place, while the liner pocket makes refilling liners a breeze. The silver-ion coating resists fingerprints and germs, keeping the can clean and hygienic, and the dual compartments make separating trash and recyclables effortless. The extra-wide steel pedal is engineered to last for 150,000 steps, and the patented lid shox technology controls the motion of the lid for a slow and silent close, preventing the lid from bumping the wall. Finally, the can comes with custom-fit liners and an all-natural odorsorb pod that eliminates odors for up to 45 days.
- Capacity: 15.3 Gallons
- Dimensions: 14.2 x 36 x 25.8 inches
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Closure: Silent Close Lid
iTouchless Dual Compartment Trash Can – 13 Gallon
This dual trash can fits easily into small or tight spaces
The iTouchless 13 Gallon Dual Compartment Trash Can is a great option for in-home recycling. It has two separate compartments for trash and recyclables, each with its own pedal and lid. The lids close slowly and quietly, and the exterior is fingerprint-proof for easy cleaning. This dual trash can has a combined capacity of 13 gallons, split between two compartments for trash and recyclables. The trash compartment holds up to 8 gallons, while the recyclable compartment holds just over 5 gallons. Its slim and rectangular shape allows it to easily fit into small or tight spaces. The bag tuck band helps keep the liners in place, and they are easy to remove and replace. However, the capacity of the trash can may not be enough for larger households or heavy waste producers. We recommend this product for small families or individuals who want to recycle more conveniently at home.
- Capacity: 13 Gallons
- Dimensions: 22 x 11.58 x 26.58 inches
- Material: Stainless steel
- Closure: Soft-close lid with foot pedal
SONGMICS Step Trash Can – 16 Gallon
Sort your waste and recyclables easily with this dual-compartment trash can
The SONGMICS Step Trash Can is a great option for people who want to sort their waste and recyclables in one place. We like the dual-compartment design that allows you to separate different types of trash easily. The trash can comes with 15 custom-fit SONGMICS trash bags that fit snugly in the two plastic inner buckets. These buckets have handles that make them easy to remove and clean. A stainless steel body makes the trash can strong and smooth, and it doesn’t get rusty or smudgy. The lid closes softly and quietly to keep out noise and odors. You can also leave the lid open by using a switch on the hinge. A big and solid foot pedal opens the single lid without using your hands. We think the SONGMICS Step Trash Can is a good option if you want a dual trash can that works well, looks good, and doesn’t cost too much.
- Capacity: 16 Gallons
- Dimensions: 22.8 x 12.4 x 23.2 inches
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Closure: Soft Close Lid
Simplehuman Butterfly Recycler – 10.6 Gallon
The best dual compartment butterfly lid kitchen step trash can recycler
The simplehuman Butterfly Recycler is a great choice for anyone looking for a convenient and stylish way to sort their waste and recyclables. We love how the butterfly lid opens from the center, making it easy to fit under low countertops and access both compartments. The steel pedal is very sturdy and the lid shox technology ensures a quiet and smooth closure. The lid can also stay open for longer tasks, such as changing the custom fit liners that prevent slips and tears. The fingerprint-proof finish keeps the can looking clean and shiny, while the removable inner bucket makes it easy to wash. The can is durable, looks great, and keeps out unwanted pets or animals. We highly recommend this product for your kitchen recycling needs!
- Capacity: 10.6 Gallons
- Dimensions: 23.3 by 10.4 by 26 inches
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Closure: Butterfly Lid with Steel Pedal
iTouchless Dual Step Trash Can & Recycle Bin – 16 Gallon
Recycling and trash solution with blue and black sides for easy separation
The iTouchless Dual Step Trash Can & Recycle Bin is a great solution for recycling and trash management in your kitchen. We like how it has two separate pedals and color-coded buckets for easy sorting of recyclables and garbage. The pedal mechanism is durable and ergonomic, and the lid closes gently and silently. The brushed stainless steel design is stylish and fingerprint-proof, making it easy to clean and maintain. The product also comes with a replaceable AbsorbX Odor Filter that absorbs and neutralizes unpleasant smells. The product fits standard 8 to 10 gallon trash bags, so you don’t need to buy custom bags. The bucket grip holes make it easy to lift the buckets without getting caught. We think this product is worth considering if you are looking for a convenient and efficient way to recycle and dispose of your waste in your kitchen.
- Capacity: 16 Gallons
- Dimensions: 19 x 15 x 26 inches
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Closure: Pedal
Step N’ Sort Extra Large Capacity Dual Trash and Recycling Bin – 18.5 Gallon
Sort your waste with ease and convenience
The Step N’ Sort Extra Large is a great double trash can for people who want to sort their waste easily and conveniently. We like how the bin has two separate compartments with removable inner bins that make disposal and cleaning a breeze. The bin also has a soft step pedal that opens the lid without any noise or batteries. The lid is fingerprint-proof and has a slow-close feature that prevents slamming. The bin comes with colored stickers that help you label the pedals for trash and recycling. The bin has a slim design that fits in any kitchen, and it has side handles and a non-skid rubber bottom for stability. We think this bin is a smart choice for anyone who cares about the environment and wants to keep their kitchen tidy.
- Capacity: 18.5 Gallons
- Dimensions: 23 x 14 x 26 inches
- Material: Stainless steel
- Closure: Soft step pedal
AthLike Dual Trash Can – 16 Gallon
Separate dry and wet trash with ease and style
The AthLike Dual Trash Can is a smart and convenient solution for waste management at home. As a research team with expertise in recycling bins, we appreciate its features that make it easy to separate dry and wet trash, prevent smell pollution, and save space. The trash can’s durability and ease of cleaning come from its high-quality stainless steel material. The pedal and the lid are designed to be ergonomic and noiseless. The inner barrel can be removed for easy disposal or cleaning. The rectangular shape is stylish and suitable for various settings. We recommend this product to homeowners who want a dual trash can that is functional and elegant.
- Capacity: 16 Gallons (8 Gallons per compartment)
- Dimensions: 23.03” x 12.6” x 25.59”
- Material: Stainless steel
- Closure: Pedal-operated lid
Home Zone Living Dual Compartment Recycling Bin – 15.8 Gallon
Separate your waste in one bin with a sleek design and odor filter
The Home Zone Living Dual Compartment Recycling Bin is a great option for people who want to separate their waste and recycling materials in one bin. It has a sleek design and strong construction with a soft-close lid that prevents odors from escaping. The rubber band and the magnets make it easy to secure and identify the bags. The rubber feet pads protect the floor from scratches. The bin also comes with a gift pack of 15 trash bags that are leak-proof and durable. However, some customers report that they did not receive the gift pack as advertised. We recommend this product for pet owners, as the lid filter keeps bad smells from getting out. It has a total capacity of 15.8 gallons (each bin is 7.9 gallons), which is suitable for most kitchens.
- Capacity: 15.80 Gallons
- Dimensions: 23.07 by 15.16 by 26.65 inches
- Material: Stainless steel
- Closure: Soft-close lid
Rubbermaid Elite Charcoal Dual Stream Step-On – 15.9 Gallon
High-capacity waste and recycling solution with color-coded liners
The Rubbermaid Elite Charcoal Dual Stream Step-On is a stylish and convenient dual trash can that allows you to sort your waste and recycling with ease. It has a large capacity of 15.9 gallons and color-coded liners for different types of materials. It also has a charcoal stainless-steel finish that resists fingerprints and matches well with kitchen appliances. The lid closes slowly and quietly, and locks securely to keep pets out. The foot pedal enables hands-free operation and hygiene. We think this product is a durable and versatile solution for kitchen waste and recycling management that can suit any space and style.
- Capacity: 15.9 Gallons
- Dimensions: 28.5 x 23.5 x 17.25 inches
- Material: Stainless steel
- Closure: Slow-close lid with stay open lock
How We Made The Selection
To compile the ranking shown above, four main points were taken into account when evaluating each dual trash can:
- Minimum volume – 8 gallons or more
- High quality – Stainless steel
- Trusted manufacturers – Sturdy and durable
- High-rated customer reviews – Minimum of 4 stars
The Ultimate Double Trash Can Guide
What Is A Dual Trash Can?
A dual garbage can is a bin that contains two compartments for separating and recycling two types of waste. Most people use it for sorting their recyclables from their kitchen waste or garbage.
Two-compartment recycling bins are great for home use and are also usable in the office environment to stimulate recycling at the office, in your car, or even on a boat. If you want to sort your trash, then a dual trash can is an excellent solution for it.
This is because you only need one bin to sort two waste streams, rather than having two separate compartments. Furthermore, a trash recycle combo looks clean and is efficient to use for you, your family, and possible guests.
A dual trash can acts as a small recycling collection center in your home, increasing the value for recycling.
People who have already bought two-compartment trash can love the fact that they can put trash and recyclables in the same bin. It is one trash can with two functions that helps you to stay organized and be eco-friendly at the same time.
Some people also conclude that a dual recycling bin makes sorting trash much more comfortable and more fun to do. It improves the overall recycling process at home because it makes separating waste and recycling a breeze. Read more about kitchen trash cans.
Why Do You Need A Dual Trash Can?
Some people need to separate their garbage because of local laws. But others want to be more environmentally friendly and want to start sorting trash. For separating trash efficiently and conveniently, a two-compartment trash can is a great option. To find out if these types of trash cans are right for you, we’ve made a list of pros and cons for double garbage cans:
Pros of a dual trash can
- Ability to use one trash can for sorting trash and recycling.
- It simplifies recycling and requires little to no effort.
- No need for two separate bins in your house, kithcen or office.
- It takes up less space than two separate bins.
- It looks clean and it works more efficiently.
- A dual trash can is very organized.
- Less confusing for guests (which bin is for recyclables?).
- It reduces the clutter of recyclables that usually sits on your kitchen counter.
Cons of a 2 compartment trash can
- You need two trash bags for each compartment.
- A double garbage can only can sort two types of trash.
- You need to be consistent with the type of trash that belongs to the compartment.
- It might be that after a while you come to the conclusion that the compartments are too small.
Tip: Do you want to separate more recyclable streams in your kitchen? Then check triple trash cans.
What Does A Dual Recycling Bin Cost?
Most dual trash cans for recycling are quite expensive. A well-built dual kitchen trash can costs between $100 and $200. At first, that is a relatively high price. But in return, you will get a high-quality waste bin that makes sorting waste a breeze. Why is that important? Well, you and your family use this trash can every day and it is part of your interior.
So it better be a good one that will last for years to come. A dual kitchen trash can helps you and your family to recycle easier. Most people who already bought a more expensive double kitchen trash bin say that they hesitated to buy one due to the high price. But after deciding to buy one, they were delighted with their purchase. It makes recycling and sorting waste a bit more fun to do.
A dual trash can is a perfect solution for sorting trash and recyclables. It makes recycling much easier and will enhance your eco-friendly lifestyle.
What You Need To Know Before Buying A Dual Trash Can
Stay well organized with a double compartment trash can for sorting trash and recyclables at home or work.
What size trash can?
The size trash can is a quite crucial part of buying a double trash can. Our research sees many ‘complaints’ from people who purchased a dual trash can that is just too small. Remember, these trash cans contain two compartments. So, before you buy a double trash can, you need to research carefully how many gallons each container can hold.
Also, be aware that some dual trash cans have two equally sized compartments, but others have a 1/3 and 2/3 ratio. This ratio means that one compartment is larger than the other.
Most of the time, people use the larger bin for their garbage and the smaller one for recycling. But when they separate more recyclables over time, they switch the containers up, so they use the larger one to collect all of their recyclables.
So what size dual trash can do you need? The size depends on your household and where you want to put it in your house. But most of the time, a recycling garbage can is used in the kitchen. So for most families, we recommend a 13-gallon trash can or a more extensive one.
Hand-free or manual trash can?
A step-on dual trash can with a foot pedal, a touchless trash can with a motion sensor, or a trash can with a manual lid? Like regular (one-compartment) trash cans, you can choose from a wide variety of trash cans with all kinds of lid mechanisms.
When you want to get a double garbage can for the kitchen, we recommend buying a step-on trash can or a touchless trash can because hygiene is essential in and around the kitchen.
For a car, boat, or another vehicle, it is recommended to use a manual lid dual-compartment trash can. Or a recycle trash can with no lid at all. If you have pets walking around, such as cats and dogs, it might be useful to get a lockable dual trash can.
These trash cans have a lid that contains a lock so you can keep those curious snouts out of the trash can. Talking about pets, we recommend a trash can that has some weight to it so it won’t tip over easily.
Show or hide your trash can?
Do you want to show of your dual trash can? Or would you rather hide your trash in one of your kitchen cabinets? There are lots of dual trash cans with beautiful designs that can complement your kitchen.
They say they love their dual trash can because of the looks and how conveniently they work. But not everybody likes to see a trash can in their kitchen, so you can also get a dual pull-out trash can for under a kitchen cabinet, such as under your sink. These built-in trash cans have multiple compartments too to sort your recycle and garbage. And the only time you’ll see the trash can is when you throw trash or recycle away. After that, you close the cabinet door, and the bin is out of view.
Create your own recycling station
A dual trash can contains two compartments to sort trash and recycling in one single receptacle. But possibly you need more containers to sort all your recyclables from the trash. Another solution is to buy multiple single trash cans to make your recycling station at home.
It is recommended to opt for single compartment trash cans with unique colors. This makes it visually clear that each container is used for a dedicated waste stream. To sort trash and recyclables, you can label each container with a recycling sticker or decal. There are also official recycle labels available here.
Do you want to recycle more waste streams at home? Then, look at our recommendations for three compartment trash cans for sorting three types of waste at home or in the office.
we are a trash can manufacture in China.hope to cooperate with you.
Dear Amy Lee, thank you for your comment. We do not sell our own products, we only recommend products that are sold on e-commerce sites.
This is a beautiful trash can. Well, you and your family use this trash can every day. So it better be a good one that will last for years to come. A dual kitchen trash can helps you and your family to recycle easier.
Yes, we think so too!
Hi
I am Pauline M Brewster. I thought this was a very helpful post. Each topic (trash can) is beautifully discussed. But I had a question.
How do I dog proof my kitchen trash can?
Please Answer me…Waiting ……..
Dear Pauline, thank you for your question and glad to read our post is helpful. What we know is that some senor trash cans are pet-proof. Also, step cans with a more heavy foot pedal are pet-proof as well. Lastly, there are recycling bins with a lock on the lid. I don’t know any DIY solutions for how to dog-proof your current trash can. Maybe put a heavy item on the lid, but that isn’t very convenient in use.
Thanks
I love our double trash bins but I’ve lost one of the inner removable containers and I’m looking to buy a new one but I can’t find it. If anyone know a place where I can buy one please let me know.
Thanks
where can I get replacement bins for Stocks & Noble brand dual bin? Our recycler took ours along with the recycling.
Found your blog. Its really nice. I appreciate your article. Its important to clean your surrounding areas for environmental purpose. So thanks for sharing all that important information.
I use a small trash can from the dollar store and use store bags as trash bags. We recycle and compost most of our trash so we have very little trash. We are lucky cause our city recycles.