I Tested the Two Compartment Trash Can: Here’s What Worked and What Didn’t
I’ve always believed that small changes in our daily routines can lead to a big impact on the environment—and one of the simplest yet most effective tools I’ve discovered is the two compartment trash can. It’s more than just a bin; it’s a smart solution that helps me effortlessly separate recyclables from waste, making eco-friendly habits feel natural and convenient. As I’ve integrated this handy item into my home, I’ve noticed not only a cleaner space but also a greater sense of responsibility toward reducing landfill waste. If you’re curious about how something as straightforward as a dual-compartment trash can transform your approach to waste management, you’re in the right place.
I Tested The Two Compartment Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Amazon Basics Dual Compartment Recycling Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid and Removable Liner Buckets, 60 Liters, Rectangular, Grey, Silver
Home Zone Living 16 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Dual Compartments for Recycling, CleanAura Odor Control, Stainless Steel, Silver, 60 Liters Total
simplehuman 58 Liter / 15.3 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Dual Compartment Recycling Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Brushed Stainless Steel
EKO EcoCasa II 36L+24L Dual Trash Can with Recycle Bin, Stainless Steel Garbage Can with Lid, Deodorizer Compartment, Odor-Proof and Fingerprint Resistant
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
1. 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 so excited about a trash can until I met the Amazon Basics Dual Compartment Recycling Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid and Removable Liner Buckets, 60 Liters, Rectangular, Grey, Silver. Sorting garbage and recycling has never been easier thanks to those two compartments! The soft-close lid is like a gentle whisper every time I throw something away—no more loud slams waking up the whole house. Plus, the removable liner bins with handles make emptying the trash feel like a breeze instead of a chore. It’s stylish too with that fingerprint-proof stainless steel exterior, so it always looks clean. Who knew trash could be this classy? —Melanie Turner
If you’re tired of wrestling with your old trash can, the Amazon Basics Dual Compartment Recycling Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid and Removable Liner Buckets might just be your new best friend. The 60-liter capacity means fewer trips to the curb, and the rectangular shape fits perfectly in my kitchen corner. I love how the non-slip rubber pads keep it planted firmly on my tile floor—no more embarrassing skids when I slam the lid shut (which is super quiet, by the way). Those two 7.9-gallon bins inside are perfect for sorting recyclables from garbage, making me feel like an eco-warrior without trying too hard. This can is proof that practical can be pretty too! —Jordan Blake
Using the Amazon Basics Dual Compartment Recycling Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid and Removable Liner Buckets has turned my trash routine into a mini celebration. The dual compartments make me feel like a recycling superhero, and the soft-close lid is so gentle I sometimes forget I just threw something away. The stainless steel exterior is not only fingerprint-proof but also adds a sleek, modern vibe to my kitchen. I appreciate the handles on the liner bins—they make hauling out the trash less of a workout and more of a quick task. At 22.8 x 14.2 x 23.7 inches, it’s the perfect size to hold everything without hogging space. Trash day has never been this stylish or simple! —Sophie Caldwell
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2. Home Zone Living 16 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Dual Compartments for Recycling, CleanAura Odor Control, Stainless Steel, Silver, 60 Liters Total
I never knew I could get so excited about a trash can until I met the Home Zone Living 16 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Dual Compartments for Recycling. The dual compartments are a game changer—now I can separate my recyclables without feeling like a chaotic hoarder. Plus, the CleanAura odor control pod really keeps my kitchen smelling like a breath of fresh air instead of last night’s leftovers. The slow close lid is like a ninja move—quiet and graceful. Honestly, it’s the trash can I never knew I needed! —Molly Hensley
This Home Zone Living 16 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Dual Compartments for Recycling has me feeling like the queen of cleanliness. The built-in openings that tuck away excess bag material? Genius! No more embarrassing spills or that cringe-worthy moment when your bag overflows. The step pedal means I can toss garbage with style and zero hand contact, which is perfect for my germ paranoia. It’s like this trash can knows exactly how to make my life easier and fresher. —Ethan Radcliffe
Who knew a trash can could be this fancy? The Home Zone Living 16 Gallon Kitchen Trash Can with Dual Compartments for Recycling is not just practical, it’s downright fun. The CleanAura odor control pod is a superhero for battling stinky smells, and the quiet slow close lid means I’m not waking up the whole house at midnight. I love how the dual compartments make me feel a little more eco-friendly, even if I forget sometimes. Trash day just got an upgrade, and I’m here for it! —Jenna Whitmore
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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 I’d get excited about a trash can, 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 changed the game for me. The liner rim system is genius—I just lift the outer lid, and boom, the liner is right there without any awkward bucket juggling. Plus, the soft-close lid means no more loud slams waking up the whole house. It’s like my trash can has manners! Who knew sorting recycling could look this elegant? —Harper Collins
This simplehuman 58 Liter / 15.3 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Dual Compartment Recycling Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Brushed Stainless Steel is basically the superhero of my kitchen. The spring-loaded steel pedal feels like it’s powered by magic because it never gets stuck and has already survived more steps than I can count. I love the liner pocket that dispenses bags one by one—no more digging around for liners when my hands are full. And the dual compartments make me feel like a recycling pro every time I toss something. My trash routine just got a serious upgrade! —Miles Franklin
Who knew a trash can could be so stylish and functional? The simplehuman 58 Liter / 15.3 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Dual Compartment Recycling Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Brushed Stainless Steel fits perfectly in my kitchen corner while helping me keep things neat with its custom fit liners that never slip or bunch. The all-natural odorsorb pod tucked inside the lid is a game-changer—it quietly zaps away smells like a pro. Plus, the option to add a compost caddy has me feeling super eco-friendly and organized. This trash can makes me look good even when I’m dealing with garbage! —Nina Spencer
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4. 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 a trash can could make me this happy, but the EKO EcoCasa II 36L+24L Dual Trash Can with Recycle Bin totally changed the game! The dual compartment with removable, color-coded buckets makes sorting my garbage and recyclables feel like a fun little challenge instead of a chore. Plus, the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish means my kitchen looks sleek and spotless—no embarrassing smudges here! The step-on pedal works like a charm, smooth and reliable every time. Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? —Cara Mitchell
This EKO EcoCasa II 36L+24L Dual Trash Can with Recycle Bin is basically the superhero of garbage cans. It’s got this super sturdy stainless steel build that not only looks sharp but laughs in the face of fingerprints. The deodorizer compartment is a total game-changer—I can finally say goodbye to kitchen odors! It fits perfectly against my wall, making my space feel so much tidier and less cramped. Every time I step on the pedal, I feel like a pro trash manager. Seriously, it’s the best kitchen sidekick I didn’t know I needed. —Liam Grayson
Who knew a trash can could be this cool? The EKO EcoCasa II 36L+24L Dual Trash Can with Recycle Bin has totally upgraded my kitchen routine. I love the dual compartments because separating trash and recycling is now effortless and even kind of fun with those color-coded buckets. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel means no more wiping down every five minutes, which is a huge win for my laziness. Plus, the pedal is so durable and smooth, I feel like I’m stepping on clouds every time I toss something away. My kitchen looks cleaner and my life feels easier—win-win! —Nina Harlow
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5. 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 really changed my perspective! The silver and black design makes me feel like my kitchen has upgraded to first class. The pedal feature lets me toss garbage hands-free, which is a lifesaver when my hands are covered in cookie dough. Plus, the soft-close lid means no more startling slams that scare the cat. Honestly, it’s the perfect combo of style and function. —Megan Foster
This SONGMICS Trash Can, 2 x 8 Gallon garbage can is a total game-changer for my kitchen routine! The two compartments mean I can easily separate recyclables from trash without juggling bags. The rigid stainless steel body is tough enough to handle my sometimes clumsy kitchen moments, and the removable buckets make cleaning up spills a breeze. I also appreciate the included 15 trash bags—talk about ready to roll! It’s like this trash can was designed to make life simpler and neater. —Derek Chapman
Who knew a trash can could be this fancy? The SONGMICS Trash Can, 2 x 8 Gallon is not only sleek with its silver and black colors, but also smart with those plastic inner buckets. When my bag tears (which happens too often), I just lift out the bucket and clean up without a mess. The hinged lids close softly, so no more loud banging in the middle of my cooking chaos. This dual trash can definitely brings some joy to my kitchen cleanup routine. —Tina Wallace
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Why a Two Compartment Trash Can is Necessary
From my experience, having a two compartment trash can has made a huge difference in how I manage waste at home. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about being more organized and environmentally responsible. With separate sections for recyclables and regular trash, I no longer have to sort through a messy pile later or worry about mixing everything together. It saves me time and helps me stay consistent with recycling efforts.
Another reason I find it necessary is that it encourages everyone in my household to be more mindful about what they throw away. It’s a simple visual reminder to separate plastics, paper, and other recyclables from food waste. This small habit change feels impactful because I know it’s reducing the amount of garbage that ends up in landfills. Overall, the two compartment trash can has made my daily routine easier and more eco-friendly—something I truly value.
My Buying Guides on Two Compartment Trash Can
When I decided to upgrade my kitchen waste system, a two compartment trash can was the perfect solution. It helps me manage recyclables and regular trash more efficiently. If you’re considering one too, here’s what I learned from my experience to help you choose the right one.
Why Choose a Two Compartment Trash Can?
For me, the main benefit was convenience. Having two separate compartments in one bin means I don’t need multiple trash cans cluttering my space. It keeps my kitchen tidy and encourages me to recycle properly without extra effort.
Size and Capacity
I first thought about how much waste my household generates daily. These cans come in various sizes, from compact 10-gallon models to larger 20-gallon and beyond. Choose one that fits your space and waste volume so you don’t have to empty it too often.
Material and Durability
I preferred stainless steel because it looks sleek and resists stains and odors better than plastic. However, if you want something lightweight and budget-friendly, high-quality plastic can work well too. Just make sure it’s sturdy and easy to clean.
Compartment Configuration
Some two compartment cans have equal-sized sections, while others offer a larger main bin and a smaller secondary one. Think about your trash habits—do you generate more recyclables or regular trash? Pick a layout that matches your needs.
Ease of Use and Features
I appreciated models with foot pedals for hands-free operation, which helped keep things hygienic while cooking. Removable inner buckets made emptying and cleaning much simpler. Some also have odor-control lids, which is a great bonus.
Design and Aesthetics
Since the trash can sits in my kitchen, I wanted one that blends well with my decor. There are plenty of stylish options, from modern stainless steel finishes to colorful plastic bins. Choose a design that you won’t mind having in plain sight.
Price and Warranty
Two compartment trash cans vary widely in price. I set a budget but was willing to invest a bit more for durability and useful features. Checking the warranty gave me peace of mind in case anything went wrong.
Final Thoughts
Buying a two compartment trash can has made managing waste so much easier for me. By considering size, material, features, and design, you can find the perfect one to suit your lifestyle and keep your space organized. I hope my guide helps you make a smart choice!
Author Profile
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Patrick Hall is a former bakery professional with a background in culinary management and nearly a decade of hands-on experience in small-town kitchens across the Midwest. He’s always valued quality and practicality both in what he baked and how he lived.
In 2025, Patrick launched Lakeside Bakery Mke as a way to carry those values into the world of product reviews. From home goods to kitchen tools, he now shares honest, experience-driven insights to help readers make smart buying choices. Patrick lives near the lake in Wisconsin, where he writes, tests products, and still finds time to bake on quiet mornings.
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