Tired of that garbage can stealing your floor space?
Let’s be honest. A garbage can standing in the middle of the kitchen never looks good. It takes up space, it gets in the way, and it doesn’t really bring any charm to the room.
But what if your garbage could disappear into the cabinet? Out of sight, out of mind — and suddenly your kitchen feels lighter, tidier, and more functional.
Sounds tempting?
A garbage can hidden inside a cabinet isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s also about comfort, better use of space, and a kitchen that smells fresher.
In this article, I’ll walk you through why it’s worth making this change, what types of cabinet trash bins exist, how to install one, and how to keep it neat and easy to use.
Maybe today is the day you say goodbye to the freestanding bin… and hello to more space on your kitchen floor.
Why A Garbage Can Belongs In The Cabinet
At first, it might seem like just another gadget for homeowners. But in everyday life, the benefits add up quickly:
More space, less chaos
Instead of a bulky bin sitting out, your cabinet space takes over the job. Especially if your home is on the smaller side, this makes a big difference as it helps maximize space in the kitchen.
Cleaner look
No one really wants to see trash — and now you don’t have to. Everything is hidden away. Especially when guests come over, your kitchen will look sleek, organized, and intentional.
Fewer odors
Having a garbage can in the kitchen cabinet helps reduce odors. A cabinet bin really keeps smells contained. You cook, you live, and your kitchen stays fresh.
Simple changes often have the biggest impact.
Which Type Of A Garbage Can Fits You Best?
There isn’t one “perfect” garbage can. It depends on your space and your habits. Let’s look at the most common options:
Pull-out bins
Glide smoothly in and out on rails. You open the cabinet, and the trash bin is right there. Easy, neat, practical.
Swing-out bins
Attached to the door, so they swing toward you when you open it. Great for smaller cabinets.
Step-on bins
A pedal opens the lid, so your hands stay free (and clean). Perfect when you’re cooking and don’t want to touch anything.
Each has its own charm. The trick is to match it with your kitchen and lifestyle.
What To Check Before Buying A Garbage Can For Your Kitchen Cabinet
Not every bin will work in every cabinet. Here’s what matters most:
Size
Measure your cabinet and make sure the bin fits comfortably without cramping the space.
Shape
Choose a garbage can that matches the shape of your cabinet or is specifically designed to fit a certain cabinet shape.
Capacity
How much trash does your household usually generate? A family will need more room than a single person.
Material
Look for a garbage can made of durable and easy-to-clean materials, such as stainless steel or plastic. A stainless steel garbage can is good for durability, or a plastic garbage can for lightness and easier cleaning.
Lid type
Manual, foot pedal, or even sensor. Choose what feels most natural.
Compatibility
Some bins are made for specific cabinet types or have adjustable features to fit various cabinets. Check your measurements carefully to ensure that the garbage can is compatible with the dimensions and design of your kitchen cabinet.
A few minutes with a measuring tape now saves you frustration later.
Retrofitting Kitchen Cabinets For A Garbage Can: Yes, You Can Do It!
Don’t have cabinets designed for a garbage can? No problem. You can retrofit:
Pull-out system
Install a set of sliding rails or glides and attach the bin — it comes out with the cabinet door.
Swing-out system
The bin swings out on a hinge platform on the inside of your cabinet door. Compact and clever.
Step-on system
A pedal mechanism at the cabinet’s base opens the lid inside. Hands-free, hygienic, and quick.
Measure twice, install once — and enjoy the transformation.
Step-By-Step Installation Of A Garbage Can In A Kitchen Cabinet
Installing a cabinet garbage can sounds tricky, but it’s really not. A few tools, a little patience — and you’re done. Here’s how:
1. Measure
Check your cabinet’s width, height, and depth. Write it down. It saves headaches later.
2. Choose your type
Pull-out, swing-out, or step-on? Think about what feels most natural in your kitchen routine.
3. Clear the space
Remove shelves or obstacles. Wipe the cabinet clean. Fresh start, fresh setup.
4. Install
Follow the instructions — usually it’s rails, brackets, or hinges. Use a level so the garbage can is straight and secure.
5. Test
Slide it in and out. Swing it open. Adjust if needed before tightening everything.
6. Secure
Fix it firmly with screws, adhesive, or any other fastening method so it doesn’t wobble or shift.
7. Optional lid or cover
Great for keeping odors under control, but not essential.
8. Capacity check
Test it with a bag inside. Does it fill up too quickly? Make sure it holds enough for your household.
9. Start using
Toss something in. Feel that smooth motion. Notice how your kitchen suddenly feels clearer.
That’s it. Simple and quick. No drama, no advanced DIY skills needed. And once it’s done — you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.
Tips For Organizing A Garbage Can In The Kitchen Cabinet
Here are some tips for keeping it neat:
Use liners
They makes it easier to dispose of trash and keep the bin clean.
Separate trash and recyclables
Two compartments or bins side by side in one cabinet? Perfect for sorting.
Clean regularly
A quick wash with mild detergent every now and then keeps odors and bacteria away.
Small habits, big results!
Regular Bags Or Custom Liners?
You might be wondering: do I need special liners? The answer is simple — not necessarily.
You may use regular garbage bags with a garbage can in your kitchen cabinet. Regular bags work fine, as long as they fit your bin. Just measure your garbage can, choose the right size, and make sure there’s a little extra length for tying and easy removal.
Custom-fit liners do have their perks, though: snug fit, prettier look, and sometimes even features like drawstring closures or odor-blocking technology. If you like things seamless, they’re worth considering.
But in the end, it depends on your personal preferences and needs. Both options do the job.
Keeping A Kitchen Cabinet Garbage Can Clean And Odor-Free
Worried your hidden bin will become a stinky surprise? It doesn’t have to. A few small habits keep it fresh and smelling nice:
— Quick daily habits
Tie the bag before you close the cabinet. Less spills, less smell.
Rinse food containers or wrap wet scraps in paper before tossing them.
Wipe the rim and the lid with a paper towel if things get messy.
— Weekly rinse (5 minutes)
Remove the bag.
Shake or vacuum crumbs out.
Wash the bin with warm soapy water.
Rinse and spray a quick vinegar-water mix (1:1) for freshness.
Dry completely because moisture is the enemy.
Do this once a week and you’ll avoid most odors.
— Monthly deep clean
Make a baking-soda paste for stubborn gunk (baking soda + a splash of water). Scrub, rinse, dry.
If you need heavy-duty disinfecting, use a diluted bleach solution per label instructions — ventilate and never mix bleach with vinegar. Wear gloves. Safety first.
— Odor-busting tricks (choose one or two)
Sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda in the bottom between uses.
Keep an activated-charcoal packet or odor pouch in the cabinet.
Dry coffee grounds or lemon peels (replace often) work too.
A cotton ball with a drop of essential oil tucked away gives a pleasant scent — subtle, not overpowering.
— Prevention beats panic
Use liners that fit well or double-bag for wet waste.
Empty food-heavy bags more often.
Let the bin air out (open cabinet) for a few minutes if something smells off.
— What not to do
Don’t mix cleaners (especially bleach + vinegar).
Don’t let moisture sit — it breeds smell and bacteria.
Don’t ignore small spills; they grow into big problems.
Small, regular care keeps a cabinet bin clean and basically invisible — in the best way.
On A Final Note,
A hidden garbage can might seem like a small thing — but it changes the whole flow of your kitchen. More space. Less clutter. A fresher feel.
Your kitchen begins to look lighter and more organized, and gets simply more pleasant to be in.
So maybe it’s time. One little change, and you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it.