10 Recycling Bins That Look Good While Reducing Waste

While living a 100% zero-waste lifestyle can be challenging, Americans are realizing the importance of recycling now more than ever. In a world overridden with environmental issues, it’s a way to give your used household items a second life. Recycling conserves natural resources and energy while minimizing the landfill space that’s piling up more and more each year.

Choosing the right recycling bins for your home will rely on several factors. Firstly, it’ll depend on the size of your household. The more people that reside there, the larger the bin will need to be. If you plan on storing your receptacle outside, you can use a larger recycling bin, but if it’s being kept in your home, it’ll need to be more space-efficient with a look that blends into our existing style.

Some recyclers can be stacked vertically, while others have dual compartments so that you don’t need multiple bins crowding your home. Plastic models are usually cheaper, whereas stainless steel and sleeker cans might come with a higher price tag.

Here are the best recycling bins for home that’ll sort your garbage and stay more organized while saving the environment.

1. Step N’ Sort Two-Compartment Stainless Steel Trash and indoor Recycling Bin

BEST OVERALL

Rather than having multiple bulky bins for your garbage and recycling, why not combine the two into a more sleek and space-efficient alternative? This two-compartment (and surprisingly spacious) bin by Step N’ Sort comes with sturdy stainless-steel pedals and a removable inner bin, so you can take your bags out without a hassle. It comes in a chic red finish with a black lid, adding an attractive pop of color to any kitchen or living space.

2. Simplehuman 58-Liter Brushed Stainless Steel Dual Compartment Recycling Step-On Trash Can

BEST DUAL COMPARTMENT PICK

If you prefer to stay away from too many bright colors in your kitchen, consider this dual-compartment stainless steel bin by the always-elegant brand Simplehuman. Shiny stainless steel gives this receptacle a clean look and is fingerprint resistant due to a silver-ion coating. Being kind to the environment has never looked so good. It has a slow-close lid, so you don’t have to worry about slamming metal sounds whenever you need to throw something out.

3. NINESTARS 18.5 Gallon Motion Sensor Auto Open Recycling Bin

BEST MOTION SENSOR PICK

Touching garbage can spread germs, and the best way to avoid that is to invest in an automatic, battery-operated bin that opens itself. This motion sensor bin from NINESTARS has a lid that automatically opens when you need to throw something out. This reduces the likelihood of germs spreading across your kitchen, and allows you to multitask better, especially if you’re cooking or have dirty hands. Plus, it’s available at a price that’s extremely fair for the included bells and whistles.

4. ECOWAN LIVING Recycling Waste Bins

BEST DECORATIVE PICK

A recycling bin doesn’t exactly work as an accent piece in your home, but you can make it fit in seamlessly with these understated decorative waste bins, available in both 10 gallons and 14 gallons. On the front is an adorable illustration that also acts as a label. This recycling organizer is made from a durable and lightweight material that’s waterproof and can be easily washed. They’re held together by velcro and can even be folded and stored away if needed.

5. Taurus 30 Gallon Multi-Color Stackable Recycling Bins

BEST STACKABLE PICK

When in need of space, go vertical. These stackable recycling bins can hold up to 30 gallons of stuff but are best for carrying lighter loads. The containers are color-coded, so you can easily sort paper, glass, and aluminum if desired. One reviewer says, “We love the three tiers of bins for our recycling. They hold a lot and keep bottles, cans and glass separate for ease of returning. A quick rinse and no smelling up the garage. Highly recommend!”

6. Rev-A-Shelf Vanity Door Mount Steel 2-Gallon Recycling Bin

MOST COMPACT PICK

If you don’t need to store a large number of recyclables and need something that’s compact enough to fit inside of a cabinet, consider this door mountable two-gallon recycling bin. It comes with a maple door mount frame and a silver, lidded bin, allowing you to mount to any door or cabinet. One user placed it in their home coffee bar for used Keurig pods, while another says, “This is the only garbage bin that attaches to the door that I’ve found after searching EVERYWHERE.”

7. Rubbermaid 45-Gallon Roughneck Blue Wheeled Recycling Container

BEST LARGE CAPACITY PICK

When it’s trash day, wheeling out your recycling bin can be a hassle. This 45-gallon bin makes it more portable, while the capacity is unparalleled. This can be kept in areas like the laundry room or garage, or stored outdoors if you prefer. It’s also by far the most budget-friendly option for the value. Although they’re not too heavy to move around, some people find that the lid can come loose in the wind, so store it with a weighted item or rock if you’re keeping it outdoors.

8. Simpli-Magic Swing-Top Lid Recycle Bin

MOST DURABLE

Although this recycling bin is basic, its sturdy design and swing-top lid have made it a favorite for hundreds of buyers on Amazon. If you prefer a green home recycling bin to a blue one or like a large capacity bin that won’t take up too much space, consider this high-quality product. Buyers find that it fits in comfortably next to their existing bins, acting as an effective space-saver. The easy-to-recognize symbol on the front ensures that nobody will get confused about where their recycled goods should go.

9. United Solutions 23-Gallon Blue Recycling Highboy Waste Container

MOST ERGONOMIC PICK

Shoppers love the slim profile of this recycling bin, which easily fits into narrow areas and takes up less floor space. It features dual pass-through handles as well as a bottom hand groove, making it more portable and user-friendly. If you don’t like the usually boxy shape of recycling bins and prefer a more unique silhouette, consider this option by United Solutions, which is significantly easier to move around. According to a happy buyer, it “sits perfectly by our refrigerator. Good plastic, sturdy and just as described.”

10. HALLBAR 9-Gallon Bin with Lid

BEST IKEA PICK

If you’re looking for reliability on a budget, Ikea is a go-to. This functional indoor recycling bin helps you minimize your waste, and the liner is very easy to remove thanks to a built-in handle that doesn’t require you to touch the actual bin. The appearance is much more seemly than bright blue bins, with the color described as ”perfect and modern” by one reviewer. It’s also a popular buy for cat owners looking for a place to dump old kitty litter.

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