Low-Cost Kitchen Garbage Cans for Maximum Value

Finding an affordable kitchen garbage can amidst all the pricey stainless steel models can feel like dumping money right into the trash. But there are quality options available that don't break the bank. Getting maximum value means weighing your options to land on a can with the right size, durability and features without overspending.

We'll look at key factors in choosing an inexpensive can that still meets your needs. And we'll recommend some of our top picks for low-cost cans worth your money.

Key Considerations When Buying an Affordable Kitchen Trash Can

Keep these important criteria in mind as you evaluate cheaper kitchen garbage cans to determine which is the best fit and value for your kitchen and waste needs:

Size

The size trash can your kitchen needs depends on factors like the available space and how often you take out the garbage. Typical kitchen cans range from 5-10 gallons. Measure where you plan to place your can to determine what dimensions make the most sense.

In general, smaller cans around 5 gallons work well for tiny kitchens or reducing trash capacity between frequent trips to the curb. They take up minimal floor space. Larger 10-gallon bins provide more storage for bigger families or less frequent emptying. They do use more square footage.

Smaller cans are frequently more affordable. But make sure to still get adequate volume so you're not constantly struggling to cram trash in. The best value balances your size requirements with budget.

Material

The material of your garbage can directly impacts durability and price. Stainless steel cans are very sturdy but generally cost over $100. Plastic trash cans are typically more budget-friendly, usually between $15-50.

High-density plastic wears better over time than lower grades. Even quality plastic will likely scratch or crack eventually under daily use and cleansing. And plastic more readily absorbs food odors compared to stainless steel.

Consider your budget but also how careful you'll likely be with the bin when determining if plastic provides sufficient longevity or if stainless is worth the investment.

Features

Many value-focused cans skip fancy features like sensor-activated lids. But common attributes like tight seals and sturdy step pedals do make daily use and odor containment easier.

Think through required functionality against nice-to-have perks. Paying a bit more for smootherbag changes or toddler-resistant lids could be worthwhile. But touch controls may be overkill.

Focus spending on aspects delivering sufficient daily convenience. With more basic cans, just plan to manually deal with things like opening lids.

Brand Reputation

Even with cheaper garbage cans, brand reputation still carries weight. Look at customer reviews and product tests assessing durability over time. This helps confirm less expensive models persist dependably.

Good brands engineer value-based cans lasting through regular use without immediately denting, cracking or bending. Check customer satisfaction ratings as well to confirm products function well beyond initial impressions.

Research delivers confidence a bargain bin find is genuinely a hidden gem rather than just shoddier craftsmanship masked by a lower price tag.

Warranty Coverage

Many cheaper cans either come with no product warranty or more limited years of coverage. With affordable prices, companies trim extra costs like covering replacement parts or items.

If possible when selecting a more budget-friendly can option, try choosing one with at least a 1-year limited warranty. This ensures some protection if unexpected cracks or breaks occur. Just confirm what damage triggers replacement qualifications.

Without strong company backing through a warranty, product issues become your full responsibility. Ensure your bargain pick at least meets initial durability tests through reviewer assessments.

Our Top Affordable Kitchen Garbage Can Picks

If balancing your kitchen waste storage needs against budget constraints sounds familiar, these great low-cost cans check necessary boxes without checking out your wallet:

Glad Push N' Seal Trash Can

With Glad's reliable trash bag compatibility, this affordable large-capacity can option tackles kitchen waste needs. The sturdy step feature makes opening and closing the lid smooth while keeping odors sealed. An inner bag cuff grabs and secures bags neatly. At under $30, it serves all the functionality of costlier steel cans without the higher price.

Rubbermaid Easy Find Lids Can

Available in smaller 3-gallon sizes up to massive 50-gallon capacities, the Rubbermaid Easy Find Lids can fits any kitchen demands. Lids securely snap tight to resist odors escaping. Rounded corners and smooth plastic make this budget-friendly choice easy to wipe clean after messy spills. With years of reliable performance, it tackles waste containment jobs without costing a fortune.

Simplehuman 4.5-Liter Mini Can

For tiny apartment kitchens, this high-quality petite stainless steel can packs removable inner buckets and bags to control odors. Its fingerprint-proof surface stays squeaky clean. At $40, it costs notably more than plastic competitors. But its premium, clog-proof steel build still qualifies as an affordable alternative to larger and fancier cans easily running over $100.

Effectively Using Plastic Kitchen Garbage Cans

While less costly, choosing plastic over stainless steel cans may require a bit more care and maintenance to get satisfactory longevity. But a few best practices make these affordable options work efficiently and effectively:

Cleaning Tips

Over time, stains and smells can accumulate in plastic garbage cans despite best efforts. Here are some simple cleaning solutions for tackling build-up:

• Wash cans with warm water and mild soap using a soft cloth. Abrasive scouring pads risk scratching plastic.
• For disinfecting, mix 1 cup bleach into 1 gallon water. Rinse thoroughly after wiping cans down.
• For stubborn odors, spraying cans with baking soda and vinegar solutions helps absorb smells.

Odor Control Strategies

Plastic cans tend to retain food smells more than stainless steel. To keep them fresher:

• Empty cans frequently instead of letting trash accumulate.
• Use scented trash bags to contain smells.
• Sprinkle baking soda in the bottom of the can.
• Check lids seal tightly to prevent leaks.

Improving Plastic Durability

While plastic is flexible, these techniques boost longevity:

• Avoid placing cans near appliances emitting heat over time.
• Prevent scratches and scuffs by always placing trash bags inside.
• Wipe spills immediately to prevent staining and cracking from chemicals.

At the end of the day, affordable kitchen garbage cans still safely and tidily contain waste with a few compromises. Prioritizing size, durability and odor control delivers capable options without overspending.

Measure your kitchen space carefully when selecting cans to get ideal capacity without wasting money on hulking overflow bins. Consider plastic over stainless to save on upfront cost. But verify plastic material grades and quality to ensure sufficient longevity at cheaper prices through reading reviews.

And don't forget small helpful touches like tight seals and grip handles boosting daily use a little higher. Finding the balance between useful features and budget savings nets big value.

With handy recommendations like the Glad and Rubbermaid cans, your waste containment needs and wallet can both stay tidy. Landing options effectively doing the dirty job of storing garbage without spending a fortune lets you keep more money where it belongs. Safely in your pocket instead of needlessly thrown out on overpriced cans.