When you’ve got messy hands, covered in food, it helps if you’ve got one of the best garbage disposal switches on the market. This ensures a seamless solution to turning on your garbage disposal.
With our top five recommendations, you’ll find one that’s perfect for your garbage disposal.
- Drain holes in every button
- Elegant style
- Operates smoothly
- High quality materials
- Works with single or dual outlets
- Long air tube
- Dual outlets
- Easy to install
- Budget-friendly
- Budget-friendly
- Made with stainless steel
- 2 sizes to suit most countertops
- Lots of safety options
- Works up to 30 m indoors
- Just plug it in to install
Can You Install a Garbage Disposal Without a Switch?
Yes, you can install the two parts separately. This is great if you want to use a switch that didn’t come with your garbage disposal. Of course, if you don’t have a switch, there won’t be any way to turn the garbage disposal on. So keep in mind you need both elements installed before it can start working!
Something To Note
Types of Garbage Disposal Switches
Garbage disposals can be turned on and off with a switch, so you need one installed. There are a few different kinds of garbage disposal switches, so you can find one that you love.
Air Switches
Air switches are electrical-free solutions to turning on and off your garbage disposal. Why use one? Because when your hands are wet, the water could seep into the electricals and cause damage or a spark.
Air switches are a safe option. They work by sending a pulse of air through the tubing to a control box underneath your sink where there is an air pressure switch. Then, the garbage disposal can be turned on and off.
Wireless Switches
Wireless switches use a remote control to turn the garbage disposal on and off. The garbage disposal connects the included power module, which the remote controls.
You can use your remote control from across the room for added convenience. Also, it’s super safe since you can hide the switch from children. The only issue with these switches is that they don’t work if you’re out of range or lose the remote control.
Toe-Kick Switches
Toe-kick switches are a hands-free solution to turning on and off your garbage disposal. The kick switch is installed at the bottom of the sink, so you can kick it on and off when you need. It’s a discreet and unobtrusive way to install a garbage disposal switch.
Unfortunately, however, based on customer reviews, they don’t always respond as quickly as you’d like. For this reason, we’re not including any toe-kick switch recommendations.
How to Choose the Best Garbage Disposal Switch
What should you be looking at when shopping for a garbage disposal switch?
Durability
You’ll likely be using the switch every day, so choose one that’s built to last.
Watch out for switches with metal and wiring that rub against each other as this can wear down over time. Air switches are built to last longer because there’s less friction. Overall, though, it depends on the quality of the materials used.
Compatibility
Make sure the chosen switch is compatible with your garbage disposal. Check the manufacturer guidelines of your garbage disposal and the chosen switch to make sure they’ll connect.
Ease of Installation
Some garbage disposal switches are easier to install than others. Check the installation process to determine how easy or difficult it is.
Hose Length
The length of the air tube is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing an air switch. This determines where the switch can be located.
A too-short hose will be frustrating, so always check beforehand. The longer the hose, the better, because you can easily trim it down to suit your needs.
Capabilities
Garbage disposal switches either have single or dual outlets. One with two outlets is a good purchase if you have something else to plug in, such as an instant hot water dispenser.
Not everybody needs dual outlets, and they are more expensive. So stick to single outlet switches if you won’t be using the second outlet.
Power Cord Length
Check the length of the power cord that comes with the garbage disposal switch to ensure it will stretch to where you need it to go.
Design
Garbage disposal switches come in many different kinds of designs and color options. Does it fit with your kitchen decor? Does it match your sink and faucet? It’s important to choose one that looks good in your home.
Budget
Lastly, consider your budget. Garbage disposal switches come in a range of prices so you’ll surely find one that suits your price range.
The Best Garbage Disposal Switches of 2022
We’ve spent hours researching real customer reviews and expert advice. We’ve also applied our own insight. With that in mind, we bring you the five best garbage disposal switches currently available.
1. SINKINGDOM SinkTop Air Switch Kit
Best Single Outlet Garbage Disposal Switch
Want something to match your decor? The beautiful Sinkingdom single outlet garbage disposal switch is the ideal choice. It comes in six color options: matte black, oil-rubbed bronze, chrome, champagne bronze, antique copper, and brushed nickel.
Sometimes it can be hard to find a switch that matches your decor. Especially if you’ve gone for something a little more unusual. But with these switches, you can find your match!
It also supports garbage disposals up to 3 HP. A lot of switches only work with a maximum of 1 HP. So if you have a stronger garbage disposal unit, this is the switch to choose.
We also love that this switch has a drain hole to stop water from entering the tube and the buttons.
Pros
- Six color options in an elegant style.
- Drain holes in every button.
- Compatible with garbage disposal up to 3 HP.
- Operates smoothly.
Cons
- Your countertops can’t be thicker than 2.5 inches.
Additional Specs
Compatibility | Works with all brands of garbage disposals up to 3 HP |
Hose length | 4.9 feet |
Outlet Number | Single |
Design | Six color options |
Materials | Copper, brass, nickel or chrome |
2. BESTILL Sink Top Garbage Disposal Air Switch
Best Garbage Disposal Air Switch
The BeStill Air Switch is a great choice of garbage disposal air switches. It comes in five color options, too. So you’ll definitely find one that suits your kitchen decor.
It’s made with quality materials, such as a solid brass cover. This high-grade material is sturdy, resistant to rust and wear, and it’s waterproof.
BeStill have thought of all the important details. For example, they’ve included two rubber gaskets to prevent water from flowing into the bottom of the sink. The screw plug has a hole for discharging water that’s accidentally gotten into the push button.
The 5-foot long air hose is both durable and long enough to suit the majority of kitchens.
Finally, the installation is super easy, involving only four steps. It can be mounted to any countertop or sink top by drilling a 1.375 diameter hole. Plus, the 3-inch extended body means if you have thicker countertops, it should still fit.
Pros
- Five color options and single or dual outlet options.
- High-quality materials.
- Works with any brand of garbage disposal.
- Long air tube.
Cons
- Some customers reported it stopped working after a few months.
Additional Specs
Compatibility | Works with all brands of garbage disposals |
Hose length | Five feet |
Outlet Number | Single or dual outlet |
Design | Five color options |
Materials | Solid brass cover and plastic thread plug |
3. Essential Values Garbage Disposal Air Switch
Best Dual Outlet Garbage Disposal Switch
Do you have something else, like a hot water dispenser, you need to plug in under your sink? Then go for a dual outlet switch. While they’re usually a little higher in price, the Essential Values switch is actually a fair price and super high quality.
It comes in three color options so you can choose the best one for your kitchen’s interior. It’s also an air switch which as you know, we definitely recommend!
What’s great about this switch is that it’s easy to install. With three easy steps, your garbage disposal switch will be up and running. No complicated wiring, no electrics, and no need to hire someone else to install it for you.
Just keep in mind, you will need a 1.375 diameter hole ready on your countertop.
The button is made with stainless steel so you can avoid rusting and staining. It’s easy to clean and looks great in the kitchen!
Customers love that this power switch alternates power between the two outlets. That way, both devices — the garbage disposal and hot water — were never running at the same time.
Pros
- Three color options.
- Dual outlet.
- Easy to install.
- Budget-friendly.
Cons
- It needs to be pushed down quite far and hard to work.
- Tubing may fall off.
Additional Specs
Compatibility | Works with all brands of garbage disposals |
Hose length | 6 feet |
Outlet Number | Dual |
Design | Three color options |
Materials | Stainless steel, bronze or chrome |
4. Cleesink Garbage Disposal Air Switch
Best Budget Garbage Disposal Switch
A tight budget doesn’t mean getting a poorly made garbage disposal switch. The Cleesink switch is inexpensive but high quality.
Firstly, it comes in a variety of styles. The five color options are polished, brushed, copper, white, and black. So you can find something that looks good with your existing kitchen decor.
Each button is covered with stainless steel to be sturdy, rust- and wear-resistant and waterproof. Being waterproof, it means that it will work well even if your hands are wet.
The power unit is a compact size so it saves space and is convenient underneath your sink. You can easily install the entire unit with four steps, using no tools. Of course, if you don’t already have a 1.375 inch hole installed for the switch, you will need a drill to do so.
Lastly, it comes in two sizes. Short and long. The short, 2-inch switch, is for stainless steel countertops that are less than two inches deep. The long switch, at 2.5 inches, is best for granite, marble or quartz countertops that are a maximum of 2.5 inches deep.
Pros
- Budget-friendly.
- Five color options.
- Made with stainless steel.
- Two sizes to suit most countertops.
Cons
- It needs to be pushed down quite far and hard to work.
- Tubing may fall off.
Additional Specs
Compatibility | Works with all brands of garbage disposals up to two HP |
Hose length | Not specified |
Outlet Number | Single |
Design | Five color options |
Materials | Stainless steel |
5. Didikit Garbage Disposal Wireless Switch Kit
Best Wireless Garbage Disposal Switch
If you want a wireless garbage disposal switch, we recommend the Didikit switch kit. Wireless switches are the safest option, especially if you have kids. You can keep the switch out of reach from them so they can’t play with the garbage disposal.
This particular switch prides itself on its safety features. All you need to do is plug it in. No need to drill holes or run wires. Then, when it’s installed, simply turn it on with a single push of a button.
You can run the garbage disposal for 30 seconds or 60 seconds. It will automatically shut off after the desired time, which means you’ll never forget to turn it off. It’s totally safe to be left on its own.
Another safety feature to note is the fact that there’s no risk of electrical shock when you operate the controller with wet hands, unlike some other switches.
Pros
- Lots of safety options.
- Works up to 30 meters when indoors.
- Works with all garbage disposals up to 1 HP.
- Just plug it in to install.
Cons
- Doesn’t work with garbage disposals higher than 1 HP.
- The 30 and 60 second timer options are too long for some people.
Additional Specs
Compatibility | Works with all brands of garbage disposals up to 1 HP |
Hose length | None included |
Outlet Number | Single |
Design | One color option |
Materials | ABS plastic |
Product | Best | Hose length | Outlet Number | Design | Materials |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
SINKINGDOM SinkTop Air Switch Kit | Single Outlet | 4.9′ | Single | 6 colors | Copper, brass, nickel or chrome |
BESTILL Sink Top Garbage Disposal Air Switch | Air Switch | 5′ | Single or dual | 5 colors | Solid brass cover & plastic thread plug |
Essential Values Garbage Disposal Air Switch | Dual Outlet | 6′ | Dual | 3 colors | Stainless steel, bronze or chrome |
Cleesink Garbage Disposal Air Switch | Budget Pick | N/A | Single | 5 colors | Stainless steel |
Didikit Garbage Disposal Wireless Switch Kit | Wireless | None | Single | 1 color | ABS plastic |
How to Install a Garbage Disposal Switch
Here’s a quick tutorial for installing an air switch garbage disposal button. This may change depending on what kind of switch you get, so always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- If you need to, drill a hole through your countertop if you don’t already have one.
- Put the rubber ring onto the switch.
- Connect the hose and feed it through the hole in your countertop.
- Put the switch into the hole in your countertop.
- Underneath the sink, tighten the nut into place.
- Plug in the main unit. You may need to unplug your disposal and plug it back into the air switch unit.
- Slip in the other end of the hose into the hole at the top of the switch unit.
- Turn on your garbage disposal and it should be working.
Switch It Up
Whether you’re getting a replacement garbage disposal switch, or in the market for a new one, our top recommendations have got your back. They’re all exceptional quality.
Plus, there are so many different design options! So whether you want something silver, black or champagne bronze, you’ll find your perfect match here.
Our top pick is the SINKINGDOM SinkTop Air Switch Kit. It has six design options and a handy drain hole. In second place, check out the BESTILL Sink Top Garbage Disposal Air Switch. It also comes in a few color options, as well as single or dual outlet.