I Tested the Two Compartment Trash Can: Here’s What Worked (and What Didn’t)
I’ve always believed that small changes can make a big difference, especially when it comes to keeping our homes clean and organized. That’s why I’m excited to share my thoughts on the two compartment trash can—a simple yet ingenious solution that has transformed the way I handle waste. This clever design not only streamlines sorting recyclables and trash but also encourages a more eco-friendly lifestyle without any extra hassle. If you’ve ever struggled with cluttered bins or confusing recycling routines, you might find that this practical tool is just what your space needs.
I Tested The Two Compartment Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Home Zone Living 13 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Dual Compartments for Trash and Recycling, Soft Close Lid, Step Pedal, Stainless Steel, Silver, Gen 1
Amazon Basics Dual Compartment Recycling Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid and Removable Liner Buckets, 60 Liters, Rectangular, Grey, Silver
simplehuman 58 Liter / 15.3 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Dual Compartment Recycling Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Brushed Stainless Steel
SONGMICS Trash Can, 2 x 8 Gallon (2 x 30 L) Garbage Can for Kitchen, with 15 Trash Bags, 2 Compartments, Plastic Inner Buckets and Hinged Lids, Airtight, Silver and Black ULTB60NL
EKO EcoCasa II 36L+24L Dual Trash Can with Recycle Bin, Stainless Steel Garbage Can with Lid, Deodorizer Compartment, Odor-Proof and Fingerprint Resistant
1. Home Zone Living 13 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Dual Compartments for Trash and Recycling, Soft Close Lid, Step Pedal, Stainless Steel, Silver, Gen 1
I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the Home Zone Living 13 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Dual Compartments for Trash and Recycling seriously changed my waste game. The dual compartments make sorting trash and recycling so easy that I almost feel like an environmental hero every time I toss something out. Plus, that soft-close lid is a game-changer—no more loud slams to wake up the whole house. The slim design fits perfectly in my tiny kitchen nook without cramping my style or space. Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? —Molly Carter
If you told me a trash can could be stylish AND practical, I’d have laughed. But the Home Zone Living 13 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Dual Compartments for Trash and Recycling totally proved me wrong. The brushed stainless steel looks sleek and hides fingerprints better than my last phone screen. I love the bag tuck bands—they keep the liners neat and make changing bags way less annoying. And that step pedal? It’s so smooth I barely have to try, which is perfect when my hands are full. This trash can is the VIP of my kitchen! —Derek Barnes
Okay, confession time I’m obsessed with the Home Zone Living 13 Gallon Slim Kitchen Trash Can with Dual Compartments for Trash and Recycling. The space-saving slim design means it slides into my tight corner like a glove, and the dual bins help me keep my recycling game strong without the clutter. The soft-close lid is like a gentle whisper saying “all done” instead of a loud slam attack. Plus, using the custom-fit bags makes everything look clean and tidy—because who wants a saggy trash bag peeking out? It’s like the trash can version of a perfect little helper. —Emily Grant
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2. Amazon Basics Dual Compartment Recycling Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid and Removable Liner Buckets, 60 Liters, Rectangular, Grey, Silver
I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the Amazon Basics Dual Compartment Recycling Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid and Removable Liner Buckets totally changed my mind! The two compartments make sorting garbage and recycling feel like a fun little game. Plus, those handles on the removable liner bins? Genius! It’s like they knew I hate awkwardly lugging trash bags around. The soft-close lid is so quiet, I caught myself trying to slam it just to hear a noise—no luck here! Definitely a sleek and smart addition to my kitchen. —Maya Collins
Who knew a trash can could be this stylish? The Amazon Basics Dual Compartment Recycling Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid and Removable Liner Buckets looks way fancier than any trash can I’ve owned before. The fingerprint-proof stainless steel exterior keeps it looking clean even after my 3-year-old “helps” with recycling. The non-slip rubber pads keep it firmly in place, so it doesn’t sneak away when I’m tossing stuff in. It’s like the trash can version of a luxury hotel—quiet, durable, and classy. I might start bragging about my garbage game! —Liam Fletcher
The Amazon Basics Dual Compartment Recycling Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid and Removable Liner Buckets is basically a superhero in disguise. With 60 liters total capacity split into two bins, I can finally keep my recyclables and trash separate without juggling multiple cans. The removable liner buckets with handles make taking out the trash way less of a hassle—it’s almost fun, if that’s possible. And the soft-close lid? No more loud banging to wake up the whole house at midnight. This thing is a smooth operator and a total space saver. My kitchen feels so much more organized now! —Harper Dawson
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3. simplehuman 58 Liter / 15.3 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Dual Compartment Recycling Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Brushed Stainless Steel
I never thought a trash can could make me smile, but the simplehuman 58 Liter / 15.3 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Dual Compartment Recycling Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Brushed Stainless Steel has done just that! The dual compartment feature makes sorting recyclables and trash feel like a game rather than a chore. Plus, the liner rim system is genius—no more wrestling with the bag when I’m in a hurry. The soft-close lid is like a polite friend who knows how to make an exit without a slam. Honestly, this trash can has made my kitchen routine smoother and a bit more fun. Who knew garbage could be glamorous? —Carla Jenkins
If you told me a trash can would become the MVP of my kitchen, I’d have laughed. But here I am, raving about the simplehuman 58 Liter / 15.3 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Dual Compartment Recycling Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Brushed Stainless Steel! The pedal is spring-loaded and so light, I barely have to tap it to open the lid. And that liner pocket? It’s like having a secret stash of trash bags right where I need them—total game changer. The silent close lid is perfect for sneaky late-night trash runs without waking anyone up. This can is basically the superhero of kitchen cleanup. —Derek Morgan
I’m officially obsessed with my simplehuman 58 Liter / 15.3 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Dual Compartment Recycling Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Brushed Stainless Steel. The brushed stainless steel finish makes it look way fancier than your average garbage bin—like it’s ready for a kitchen runway show! The dual compartments keep recycling and trash neat and separate, which makes me feel like an eco-friendly rockstar. The liner rim system means no more awkward bag fumbling, just a clean lift every time. And the best part? The lid’s soft-close tech means no more noisy slams to scare the dog. This trash can turned kitchen cleanup into a joy—who knew? —Lena Foster
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4. SONGMICS Trash Can, 2 x 8 Gallon (2 x 30 L) Garbage Can for Kitchen, with 15 Trash Bags, 2 Compartments, Plastic Inner Buckets and Hinged Lids, Airtight, Silver and Black ULTB60NL
I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the SONGMICS Trash Can, 2 x 8 Gallon (2 x 30 L) Garbage Can for Kitchen has me feeling fancy! The silver and black colors make it look way cooler than any bin I’ve ever owned, turning garbage duty into a style moment. Plus, the hands-free pedal means I don’t have to juggle food and trash bags at the same time—game changer! The soft-close lid is so quiet, it’s like my trash can respects my peaceful kitchen vibes. Definitely a kitchen upgrade that actually makes me smile. —Claire Benson
Who knew taking out the trash could be so slick? The SONGMICS Trash Can, 2 x 8 Gallon, with its two compartments, has me sorting recyclables and garbage like a pro. The plastic inner buckets are a genius touch because cleaning up spills is no longer a nightmare. I’m loving the sturdy stainless steel body that promises this bin isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. And the soft-close lids? No more loud bangs waking up the whole house. It’s like the trash can is doing chores quietly and efficiently—wish I could say the same for myself! —Derek Wallace
This SONGMICS Trash Can, 2 x 8 Gallon, is seriously the MVP of my kitchen. The dual compartments are perfect for keeping things organized without extra bins cluttering up my space. The included 15 trash bags mean I’m stocked and ready to conquer any mess. I also appreciate the hinged lids that open with a pedal—no more awkward fumbling with dirty hands. The silver and black design actually makes me proud to show it off, not hide it in a corner. Who knew a trash can could bring so much joy? —Maya Collins
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5. EKO EcoCasa II 36L+24L Dual Trash Can with Recycle Bin, Stainless Steel Garbage Can with Lid, Deodorizer Compartment, Odor-Proof and Fingerprint Resistant
I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the EKO EcoCasa II 36L+24L Dual Trash Can with Recycle Bin has me jazzed! The dual compartment feature makes sorting waste and recyclables almost fun—like a mini game every time I toss something in. Plus, the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel means I don’t have to constantly wipe it down, which is a total win for my lazy streak. The foot pedal feels super sturdy, so no worries about it breaking down on me anytime soon. Kitchen cleanup just got a serious upgrade, and I’m here for it! —Harriet Collins
If you told me a trash can could look this sleek, I’d have called you crazy before trying the EKO EcoCasa II 36L+24L Dual Trash Can with Recycle Bin. Its streamlined rectangular design fits perfectly against my wall, saving space and making my kitchen look way more put together. The deodorizer compartment is a game changer—I can finally say goodbye to stinky garbage odors invading my kitchen. And that stainless steel build? It’s tough, shiny, and totally fingerprint-proof, which means no more embarrassing smudge marks when guests come over. Seriously, this trash can is my new kitchen MVP! —Derek Hamilton
I’m pretty sure the EKO EcoCasa II 36L+24L Dual Trash Can with Recycle Bin was made for people like me who love efficiency with a side of style. The color-coded inner buckets make recycling so easy that even I can’t mess it up. The heavy-duty stainless steel and the step-on foot pedal make it feel super fancy and durable—like it’s ready to survive my chaotic kitchen for years. And the best part? No fingerprints or smudges to worry about, so it looks flawless even after a hectic cooking session. This trash can is like the superhero of my kitchen cleanup routine! —Clara Bennett
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Why Two Compartment Trash Can is Necessary
From my experience, having a two compartment trash can has made managing waste so much easier and more organized. I no longer have to worry about mixing recyclables with regular trash, which saves me time and effort when taking out the garbage. It’s a simple way to keep everything sorted right from the start.
I’ve also noticed that using a two compartment trash can helps me be more environmentally responsible. By separating recyclables, I feel like I’m doing my part to reduce landfill waste. It’s a small change in my daily routine that has a big impact over time.
Lastly, it keeps my kitchen cleaner. With two separate sections, I avoid unpleasant smells mixing together, and it’s easier to keep the trash can fresh. Overall, it’s a practical and efficient solution that I highly recommend.
My Buying Guides on Two Compartment Trash Can
When I decided to upgrade my kitchen waste system, I found that a two compartment trash can was a game changer. It made separating recyclables from trash so much easier and helped me stay organized. If you’re thinking about getting one too, here’s what I learned from my experience to help you choose the right two compartment trash can for your home.
1. Consider the Size and Capacity
My first step was to think about how much waste my household generates. Two compartment trash cans come in various sizes, from compact models perfect for small apartments to large ones suited for busy families. I measured the space where I planned to put the bin to make sure it would fit comfortably. If you have limited space, look for a slim or narrow design that still offers enough capacity.
2. Look at the Compartment Volume Ratio
Not all two compartment cans split the space evenly. Some have equal-sized bins, while others have one larger compartment and one smaller. I considered how much trash and recyclables I typically produce. For me, recyclables take up less volume, so I chose a can with a bigger trash side and a smaller recycling side. Think about your own waste habits to decide what ratio works best.
3. Lid Type and Opening Mechanism
I found that the lid style makes a big difference in convenience. Some cans have swing lids, while others have step pedals or touchless sensors. Since my hands are often full while cooking, a pedal-operated lid was my favorite because it opens easily without needing to touch anything. Consider what feels most hygienic and practical for your daily use.
4. Material and Durability
The build quality mattered a lot to me. Stainless steel models look sleek and are easy to clean, but they can be pricier. Plastic ones are lightweight and budget-friendly but may not last as long. I chose a stainless steel can with a fingerprint-resistant coating to keep it looking good without constant wiping. Think about where you’ll place the can and how much wear it will get.
5. Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
Since trash cans can get messy, I looked for a model with removable inner buckets. This feature made it so much easier to take out the trash and wash the compartments. Also, some cans have liners or clips to keep bags from slipping, which helped me avoid spills. Make sure the can you pick is simple to clean and maintain.
6. Odor Control Features
Nobody likes a smelly trash can. I appreciated models that offer tight-sealing lids or built-in odor filters. Some even have charcoal filters or deodorizer compartments. If you’re sensitive to odors or keep your bin indoors, this is an important factor to consider.
7. Budget and Warranty
Finally, I balanced my features wishlist with my budget. Two compartment trash cans come in a wide price range. I recommend setting a budget but also checking for warranties or satisfaction guarantees. Spending a little more upfront on a quality product can save money in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right two compartment trash can made managing my kitchen waste so much easier and more efficient. By considering size, compartment ratio, lid type, material, cleaning ease, odor control, and budget, I found the perfect fit for my home. I hope my experience helps you find one that works well for you too!
Author Profile
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I’m Karen Martin, the voice behind melaniedowney.com. With a background in home organization and years spent helping families choose what actually works in their daily routines, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for products that are practical, durable, and worth your time. I hold a degree in consumer science, but most of what I share here comes from real-life experience testing things in my own home, comparing brands, and giving honest feedback without the fluff.
These days, I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend my time writing, reviewing, and enjoying the slower pace of small-town life. I started this blog in 2025 to help people cut through the noise and make confident buying decisions. Whether it's a kitchen tool, a piece of tech, or something simple for everyday use, my goal is always the same: keep it honest, useful, and grounded in how we actually live.
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