Let’s be honest, even the smartest kitchen bin ideas are never going to be the most glamorous part of your kitchen set-up. But whether you’re cooking up a storm or dealing with day-to-day family life, it’s one of the hardest working features in the home so it’s worth giving it some proper thought.
From slimline designs that tuck neatly into narrow spaces to hidden solutions that keep recycling organised behind closed doors, the latest bin options are far from basic. In fact, many can add to the style and practicality of your kitchen design rather than taking away from it.
So if your current setup is clunky, smelly or just plain unsightly, it might be time for a rethink. These kitchen bin ideas show how a little planning can turn even the most mundane of essentials into something smart and surprisingly stylish.
1. Choose a multi-compartment recycling bin
“One of the most overlooked parts of designing a kitchen is deciding where your bins will go,” says Al Bruce, founder of Olive & Barr. “It may not be the most glamorous part of the planning process, but it remains one of the most important for the simple fact that waste is unavoidable, so it’s vital you factor in where your recycling, general and food bins will be positioned.”
If your kitchen is constantly overflowing with glass jars, cardboard boxes and food scraps, then a multi-compartment recycling bin could be exactly what you need. Instead of juggling several mismatched containers, a single design with separate sections makes sorting waste so much easier.
“A square- or oblong-shaped bin is practical because it will fit against an end unit or a wall,” explains Josie Medved, design manager at Symphony Group Plc. “Make sure that the bin is tucked out of way of big traffic areas, and look for something with a lid which is easy to open – ideally with a foot pedal – if you have your hands full. “
For example, this slimline Vonhaus triple bin slips neatly against a kitchen island, so it won’t hog valuable floor space, and its neutral finish means it blends into just about any scheme. One section can be dedicated to paper recycling, one for tins, and another for general rubbish – so trips to the outdoor bins are instantly reduced. This particular design is also available as a 60L Double Bin at Vonhaus if you’d prefer a slightly more compact option.
Al Bruce
Al Bruce, founder of Olive & Barr, began his career 25 years ago studying to be a cabinet maker at college. His natural skill in the craft of cabinetry and keen business acumen saw him quickly rise up through the ranks of the handmade kitchen industry.
As Design Manager for Symphony Fitted Furniture, Josie champions smart, flexible kitchen storage solutions, from fitted joinery to clever hideaway bins, designed to enhance everyday life.
2. Look for a bin with detachable compartments
“Having a suitable sized bin for your household, with different compartments for waste, food and recycling, makes life far easier,” advises Josie Medved. So, if you’re short on counter space and fed up of crumbs following you around the kitchen, a bin with removable compartments could be the answer.
Designs like this VonHaus Kitchen 34L Bin at Amazon often feature smaller top bins that can be unclipped and hooked onto cupboard doors or popped onto the kitchen counter while you prep meals. It means peelings, teabags and scraps can go straight into the bin without ever touching your worktop.
Beneath, a larger compartment handles the bulk of your recycling, with a foot pedal lid to keep things hygienic and hands-free. The whole setup makes it easier to stay organised day to day, while the stainless-steel finish ensures it still looks smart in a contemporary kitchen.
3. Choose a multi-section pull-out system
If your family produces a lot of recycling, a pull-out system with multiple compartments can be a real lifesaver. With space to divide cans, plastics and cardboard all in one place, it’s far easier to keep on top of things without lining up endless containers around the room or taking up valuable floorspace with freestanding units.
“Pull-out systems are definitely the most popular when it comes to cabinet solutions, and for good reason, too,” says Julie Gokce, senior designer at More Kitchens. “They’re tidy, discreet, and often come with dividers so you can easily separate general rubbish from your recycling.”
Turning ordinary kitchen storage into a recycling station can be as simple as adding a few containers, such as these Emuca odour-proof waste sorting bins from Amazon, and organising them in your deepest pull-out drawer.
Julie Gokce brings over 40 years of expertise in the kitchen design world. Though holding a diverse array of roles during that time, her passion for design has been her guiding light, always leading her back to her true love: crafting bespoke and innovative kitchen designs.
4. Keep it simple with a single pull-out bin
If you’re working with a small kitchen, sometimes the simplest option is the best. A single pull-out bin, tucked under the sink or within a base unit, keeps waste hidden from sight while still being easy to reach when needed. Many designs also include handy storage for bin bags, so everything you need is in one place.
“A quick win for kitchen bins is tucking them into a cupboard, instantly clearing up visual clutter,” explains Julie Gokce. “The space under the sink is usually perfect for this, and keeps everything out of view without taking up extra room on the kitchen floor.”
5. Go for a double-bin drawer that matches your cabinetry
For busy households, a double-bin pull-out system is a smart way to separate rubbish and food waste. With two compartments built into a smooth-sliding drawer, you can clear plates and prep scraps in seconds without cluttering the kitchen floor with multiple freestanding bins. Because these units can be disguised as part of the cabinetry, they can also be designed to also blend into both modern styles and traditional Shaker kitchens.
“A concealed bin tucked within your kitchen layout isn’t just practical, it’s essential,” insists Tom Howley, creative design director Tom Howley Kitchens. “Ideally, it should be placed close to the sink, prep area or integrated into your island, so it’s both easily accessible and elegantly hidden away.”
Tom Howley set up his own luxury kitchen company in 2004, now owned by BHID Group. Tom is the Creative Design Director of the eponymous brand and continues to design and fit exquisite bespoke kitchens all over the country.
6. Have a dedicated food waste caddy
If you’re serious about cutting down on food waste, a countertop caddy is a must-have. Small enough to sit neatly on the kitchen worktop, it makes it easy to scrape peelings, leftovers and tea bags straight from the plate. Many designs come with odour filters to keep smells at bay, and their compact size means they’re easy to carry around and empty into your main outdoor food bin when full.
Joseph Joseph Intelligent Waste Caddy
This recycling bin features a ventilated design that reduces moisture and odours. It’s also available in two stylish shades.
7. Get creative with freestanding designs
Not every kitchen needs a built-in solution. A stylish freestanding bin can be just as practical (and sometimes even more fun). Think of these bins less as a boring necessity and more as part of your décor. A brass or metallic finish, for example, instantly elevates a simple bin, turning it into a design detail rather than something to hide.
Look for a design that complements your style. Woven or hammered textures can lend warmth to traditional kitchens, while modern kitchens suit stainless steel or matt black finishes. Bold colours are also a great way to add personality to a neutral backdrop.
Practicality still matters, though. As a rule of thumb, if you’re going to be putting food waste in your bin then make sure your bin has a secure lid to keep odours at bay, and always choose the largest capacity you can reasonably fit. A too-small bin will fill up fast and quickly become a nuisance. Using good-quality bin liners will also help keep things cleaner and makes emptying far less of a chore.
Shop freestanding kitchen bin designs
Retro Gloss 30L Pedal Bin
With its classic retro styling, this practical bin would make a smart addition to any space. It’s available in a choice of three different colours, but this Seafoam shade is our favourite option for adding a splash of colour to your space.
Plastic 35L Swing Lid Bin
Made from durable plastic with a metal-rim lid, this budget buy has a capacity of 35L. It’s great value at just £12, although its streamlined design and bold colour make it look more expensive. Also available in a subtle cream colour.
Brabantia Bo Touch Bin Hi
If you want something a little different for your kitchen bin, this space-efficient design fits the bill. Click-on legs raise it up for a better working height and it comes with two inner buckets and a soft-touch opening system.
8. Conceal a bin within a pantry or kitchen island
If you’re lucky enough to have a pantry, tall cupboard or kitchen island, these can all make the perfect home for a hidden bin. A breakfast pantry works especially well, letting you clear away wrappers, coffee grounds and recycling in the same spot you prep.
The trick is to think carefully about placement. “Kitchen bins should be placed near to where the main food preparation is,” advises Josie Medved. “If you have a large island, the bin should be in one of the units, as it is generally a central area of the kitchen and within easy reach. A base unit near the sink is another good position, ideal for quickly getting rid of waste before washing up.”
9. Look for family-friendly bin designs to make life easier
When you’ve got a busy household, you need a bin that can keep up. A freestanding design with a generous capacity saves you from constantly emptying it, while features like foot pedals and removable liners make it easier (and cleaner) to use when your hands are full.
“Having a bin that’s too small, which must be emptied frequently, is a common mistake we see time and again,” says Josie Medved. “Make sure you have a suitable sized bin for your household, with different compartments for waste, food and recycling.”
If you’re tired of wrestling with bin liners that split or snag on the way out, look for a design that makes emptying easier. The Porta™ 40L Easy-empty Pedal Bin from John Lewis has a clever front-opening door so you can slide out a full bag without the awkward lift, helping to avoid spills and mess. It also features a built-in odour filter to keep smells under control and a soft-close lid for quieter use.
10. Consider installing a sink disposal unit
While they’re a familiar feature in American kitchens, waste disposal units are slowly gaining traction in the UK too. Fitted discreetly beneath the sink, these devices grind down food scraps so they can be washed safely away with water. It means fewer trips to the food caddy and less chance of unpleasant smells lingering behind.
“A dedicated food bin is always a good idea,” says Josie Medved, “but if you want a more permanent option, an integrated system such as a disposal unit or under-sink pull-out can help keep your worktops clear while making kitchen life easier day to day.”
These units are not for everyone though, and in some areas you’ll need to check with your water supplier before installing one. But they can be a convenient solution if you cook often and generate lots of peelings. Models are now designed to be energy efficient and quiet, with built-in safety features to prevent blockages.
“Whether you opt for an integrated bin that pulls out from under your food prep station, a freestanding bin hidden out of sight in a tailor-made cabinet or a dedicated space at the end of your island, the most important thing is to go with whatever is most viable for your space,” says Al Bruce, founder of Olive & Barr.
Your kitchen bin is only half the battle against waste, however – don’t forget about your wheelie bin storage outside. The right setup hides bins from view, keeps everything tidy, and can even give your driveway or garden a little style boost.
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