Updated on 2nd May 2023
This comparison is certified 100% impartial and follows our selection process.
Amazon Basics L A-10132FM-32L
Thanks to its handle, it is the most practical waste bin we have tested. Its 32 L capacity allows you to change the bag more quickly to reduce the distribution of odours in the kitchen.
This kitchen bin has a plastic finish that won’t hold fingerprints. When we put it to the test, one of the things we liked most was the large pedal that the mechanism made when it opened and the lid closed smoothly when we released it. To insert the bin liner, simply place it in the bin’s removable compartment. Then put the right-hand tray back into the bin, otherwise the lid will not close properly. However, when the lid is properly closed, the bin will prevent odours from escaping. Finally, the handle on the back of the bin makes it easy to carry and sets it apart from the competition.
The different kitchen waste bins we have tested.
First, we tested their robustness.
We also judged the practicality of their design.
Then we tested their opening mechanism.
We put tuna and garlic in each bin to see how well they retained odours.
We also tested their ease of maintenance.
Deuba 192998
This simple waste bin opens by sliding the hinged lid upwards. The matt plastic surface makes it easy to clean, although there is no inner compartment.
During our tests, we found that it was a little difficult to put the lid back on after we had put the bin liner on. The reason? The notches between the bin and the lid, covered by the bin liner… Nevertheless, this is a simple 50-litre bin that offers good value for money. The lid is very easy to slide on and off and makes a small click when opening and closing. With no inner compartment, the plastic material makes it easy to clean. Although we noticed that it does not retain odours as well as its more expensive rivals, it is still better than other similarly priced models.
Amazon Basics AB-50-22SL
It is the only sensor-operated model in the selection. This means you never touch the bin, which prevents the spread of bacteria and is very handy when you have your hands full.
This bin offers a very attractive price/performance ratio thanks to its efficient sensor opening. The only drawback is that this opening and closing system (stays open for 4-5 seconds) is a bit noisier than the others, as you can hear the slight noise of the motor every time you use it. During our tests, we were pleasantly surprised to find that the 2 D batteries required were present at the time of purchase. We also found that the 50 L capacity was not too large (41.6 x 28.8 x 67 cm). The tuna and garlic smells remained in the bucket. However, as the sensor is sensitive, we recommend placing this bin in a low-traffic place, otherwise, the odours will continue to disperse. Finally, please note that this bin does not have an inner compartment, but it does have a holder to help keep the bin liner in place.
This pedal bin is ideal for a family kitchen. The soft close lid keeps odours away, and the inner plastic container increases hygiene.
Amazon Basics C-10079S-30L
With a height of 64.5 cm, this bin means you don’t have to bend down too low to dispose of your waste. The 30-litre capacity is suitable for couples or small families. As mentioned above, it has a plastic compartment that can be easily removed with a handle. This makes it easy to clean. However, some users report that it sometimes comes out with the bag when trying to remove it. Simple but effective, its pedal is wide enough to use with ease, causing the lid to lift and fold lazily. In our tests, we found the mechanism to be very quiet. Finally, we found that odours remained well sealed.
Brabantia Touch Bin
This 30-litre waste bin with an upright design means you don’t have to bend down too low to use it. Although it does not have a pedal, it is easy and durable to open.
Brabantia’s 30-litre Touch Bin is ideal for small kitchens or couples. At 72 cm high and available in 14 colours, it’s designed to stand alone in your kitchen (it’ll hardly fit under the sink anyway). Its sleek, modern stainless steel look means it won’t stand out too much, whatever your decorating style. During our tests, we found its opening system easy to use and quite quiet (a slight ‘click’). We were able to get the bin liners in and out easily. It also has a handle to make it easy to move around. Three are included. The removable liner makes it easy to clean, but we found that it didn’t retain odours as well as others.
Our selection
Our choice, Best high-end Best budget Best mid-range Mid-range alternative High-end alternative Amazon Basics L A-10132FM-32L Deuba 192998 Amazon Basics AB-50-22SL Amazon Basics C-10079S-30L Brabantia Touch Bin Thanks to its handle, it is the most practical waste bin we have tested. Its 32 L capacity allows you to change the bag more quickly to reduce the distribution of odours in the kitchen. This simple waste bin opens by sliding the hinged lid upwards. The matt plastic surface makes it easy to clean, although there is no inner compartment. It is the only sensor-operated model in the selection. This means you never touch the bin, which prevents the spread of bacteria and is very handy when you have your hands full. This pedal bin is ideal for a family kitchen. The soft close lid keeps odours away, and the inner plastic container increases hygiene. This 30-litre waste bin with an upright design means you don't have to bend down too low to use it. Although it does not have a pedal, it is easy and durable to open. £ 59.99 on Amazon See the price on Amazon £ 106.18 on Amazon £ 78.30 on Amazon £ 80.00 on Amazon
Selectos compares and tests hundreds of products to help you buy better. We sometimes receive a commission when you buy through our links, which helps fund our work. Learn moreWhy trust us ?
How did we do the testing?
To test the kitchen bins, we first checked that they arrived intact, which says a lot about their robustness. We then assessed the practicality of their design by placing a bin liner in each one. Then we tested their opening mechanism (practicality, noise, opening time, fast or slow closing…).
We then put tuna and garlic in each container and left them for 2 hours. This allowed us to assess their ability to seal in odours. Finally, we looked at how easy it was to clean (having a drawer, lid, etc.).
| Name | Capacity | Easy on/easy off bag | Opening / closing | Noise | Does it retain odour well? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Basics L A-10132FM-32L | 32 L | Yes, but the compartment is a bit fiddly to put on and take off | Pedal | Silent | Yes |
| Deuba 192998 | 50 L | Yes, but the cover must be placed correctly in the slots | Sliding | When opening and closing the lid | No |
| Amazon Basics AB-50-22SL | 50 L | Yes | Automatic sensor | Mechanism noise | Yes |
| Amazon Basics C-10079S-30L | 30 L | Yes | Pedal | Silent | Yes |
| Brabantia 115462 | 30 L | Yes | Lid pressure | Little click | No |
| Amazon Basics C-10074FM-50L | 50 L | Yes, but the compartment is a bit fiddly to put on and take off | Pedal | Slight metallic noise on pedal release | Yes |
How to choose a kitchen waste bin?
There are so many different models on the market that we have prepared a series of criteria to help you choose the one that best suits your needs and/or requirements.
- The size: this choice depends on your personal preferences, but also the required capacity. Some models are designed to be seen in the kitchen, while others can be hidden under the sink thanks to their small dimensions. Some kitchens have even integrated them directly into their cupboards: the bin opens and is accessible by simply opening the door.
- The type of opening: this will determine the dimensions and, above all, the size of the bin. While a pedal opening will suit all bin heights, automatic or pressurised systems are much more suitable for tall bins where the lid is within easy reach. This will keep them out of reach of younger children, which can be a wise choice.
- Compartments: for those who sort their waste and have space, it is practical to buy a bin with several compartments. This allows you to separate and store ordinary waste and recyclable waste in the same place.
- Hygiene: you will come into contact with a lot of waste and bacteria. Therefore, you should avoid as far as possible the accumulation and spread of bacteria in the house by having a dirty waste bin. Ideally, choose one that does not require you to touch it to open or close it (pedal or automatic models) and is easy to clean.
- Materials: most bins are made of stainless steel, which makes them very strong and easy to clean. Plastic bins are equally hygienic but tend to be less durable. Most models have an airtight lid to prevent odours from spreading, but the more sophisticated models have an odour filter to prevent odours from entering the kitchen.
As mentioned above, the main difference between litter bins is the opening system. There are five types of opening systems on the market:
- Single-lid: they work, as you would expect, by simply lifting the lid. They are usually cheap and also quite large. The main disadvantage is that you have to have a free hand to open it and, as you have to lift/put down the lid during the process, it is not the most hygienic option either.
- Pedal-operated: this is much more practical and hygienic, as a pedal at the base of the bin allows it to be opened and closed easily with the foot. In these cases, choose a sturdy (avoid plastic) and wide pedal for easy and long-lasting use.
- Push type: open by pressing the lid. Simply push the lid down until it clicks shut. This type of bin is practical but requires physical contact and several free fingers, which is not always easy in the kitchen.
- Built-in: integrated into a kitchen cabinet or drawer, out of sight. When well-designed, the mechanism is practical and hygienic.
- Automatic: this is the most sophisticated, with an infrared sensor device that opens and closes the lid automatically when it detects movement. This system is very hygienic and will appeal to many. Although they are usually battery-operated and more expensive, they are very convenient to use.
Another model we recommend
Amazon Basics C-10074FM-50L (£75.00 upon publication): retains odours very well. This large 50 L waste bin has a removable compartment for easy cleaning. Although the latter is easy to take off and put on, it would be more convenient if the lid opened more vertically. Nevertheless, it is still very practical, especially with the handle. When I pressed the pedal, it opened properly and closed lazily without making any noise. Only the pedal made a slight metallic noise when we lifted our feet. However, its greatest quality is that it retains even the strongest odours.
Other models tested
Curver Flip Bin 229411 (£29.99 upon publication): We found the lid of this bin to be rather awkward, as it did not fit easily into place after opening. It also has no compartment, which makes it difficult to clean.
Curver 187181 (£49.99 upon publication): Without a compartment, we found the price/quality ratio of this bin less attractive than the others. Its material quality is mediocre, and we have our doubts about its robustness.
Batimex Kitchen Move BAT SS (£68.99 upon publication): When we opened the box, we noticed that this bin was not very sturdy, as it arrived deformed. The mechanism also needs 4 D batteries, which are not included, and failed several of our tests.
Amazon Basics D2-50L (£72.00 upon publication): Although it traps odours well, we have decided to remove this 50-litre bucket from our main range due to its supermassive design (it takes up too much space).
Translated by Ramsés El Hajje
