Garbage disposals are a common and convenient method to dispose of food waste. If you’re in the market for a new garbage disposal, or this is your first time shopping for one — we can help.
We created this list based on hours of research into expert advice, real customer reviews, and our own experience. Ensuring to look at each product’s type, horsepower, noise level, and size, we put together our list of the seven best garbage disposals. Get ready to find one that you and your family will love!
- Powerful and durable construction
- Fast and clean usability
- Easy installation
- Exclusive Dura-drive motor
- Easy swap installation
- SoundSeal technology
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- Powerful high speed motor
- Bio-Shield prevents odors
- Magnetic guard captures metal objects
- Compact to fit under most sinks
- Quality Vortex motor
- Powerful enough for most families
- Powerful 2700 RPM motor
- SoundSHIELD Technology minimizes noise
- 10-year warranty
- High-speed 2800 RPM motor
- Quiet humming sound
- Easy to install
- Compact and lightweight
- Continuous feed
- Durable construction
The Best Garbage Disposals of 2023
We’ve spent hours researching expert advice and the science behind garbage disposal units. With that in mind, as well as looking at real customer reviews, we have the seven best garbage disposal units to recommend.
Here are the units that will make your cooking and cleaning experience easier!
InSinkErator Garbage Disposal Evolution Excel
Best Quiet Garbage Disposal
The InSinkErator is a one-of-a-kind garbage disposal, especially regarding noise.
In fact, it’s the quietest garbage disposal unit currently on the market. It has advanced noise-reducing, insulated SoundSeal Technology. So when you run this unit, you’ll hardly notice it.
This disposal runs at only 45 decibels which is somewhere between the sound of a refrigerator and a light rainfall.
What We Like
Powerful and Durable Construction
Although it’s quiet, it’s powerful. It has one HP, so it’s perfect for larger families or people who dispose of a lot of food waste.
The 40-ounce grind chamber with a galvanized steel system can grind even the toughest food scraps. Plus, it has a LeakGuard Liner for extra durability.
Fast and Clean Usability
Make cleanup quick and easy with this garbage disposal unit. It also ensures your kitchen is clean and it leaves no mess behind.
It quickly disposes of tough ingredients, even bones, without making much noise. So you can enjoy your meal and the cleanup process more than ever.
Easy Installation
It’s no problem to install the InSinkErator. The quick lock mount makes it super easy to install, especially if you previously had an InSinkErator model.
Once you’re with InSinkErator, you’re with them for life since they make the switching process so easy. Just twist off the old and twist on the new.
Three-Stage MultiGrind Technology
This superior technology helps the unit grind the toughest food without jamming or clogging. It breaks the food down into tiny particles so it can be drained away. This includes melon rinds and chicken bones — items you usually shouldn’t put in a garbage disposal!
What We Don't Like
Rubber Opening
Many customers have complaints about the rubber opening. It helps keep the unit quiet, but it can be frustrating.
It doesn’t let the water drain from the sink quickly, so it builds up and dirties your sink. Plus, it doesn’t have super strong suction to pull down the water and floating food scraps.
Take Note
High Price Point
This is one of the most expensive garbage disposal units that we found. If you’re on a budget, the price of this unit might make you scream.
Product Specs
| Type | Continuous feed |
| HP | One |
| Noise Level | Quietest — 45 decibels |
| Dimensions | 13 x 12 x 12 inches |
| Warranty | Seven years |
Our Ratings
InSinkErator Garbage Disposal + Air Switch
Best Continuous Feed Garbage Disposal
While most of our recommendations are continuous feed, the InSinkErator Garbage Disposal and Air Switch is by far one of the best.
The innovative design features a ¾ HP Dura-Drive Induction Motor and 2-Stage Multigrind Technology. It also has SoundSeal Technology to produce low noise levels.
This is the smart choice if you have a large family or a lot of food scraps. It guarantees fast and efficient garbage disposal.
What We Like
Exclusive Dura-Drive Motor
With this unit, you get a high-quality and outstanding motor: Dura-Drive. It operates at ¾ HP, which is exclusive to InSinkErator.
Dura-Drive is long-lasting and utilizes high grinding force to tackle most food scraps, even tough or thick ingredients. The 2-stage Multi Grind Technology aids this feature by grinding food into extremely small particles.
Easy Swap Installation
If you’ve previously had an InSinkErator product installed, it’s easy to switch it out for this new one. The Quick Lock feature is compatible with all InSinkErator products.
Simply twist off the old unit and twist on the new unit. It also has an included garbage disposal air switch that can be installed on your countertop. You can easily clean it while wiping down your countertops.
SoundSeal Technology
This is a super quiet unit, using SoundSeal Technology to keep the noise levels to a minimum. The advanced noise reduction makes this the quietest unit from InSinkErator after the Evolution Excel and Compact unit. Customers say that when this is on, you don’t even know it’s running.
Super Durable Construction
The price point on InSinkErator disposals is so high partly due to the durable components. This unit is made from stainless steel alongside a LeakGuard Liner, which assures durability. The air switch is made from satin nickel, adding to the robust construction.
What We Don't Like
Small and Narrow Gasket
The gasket on this unit is small, with a narrow opening. This helps to reduce sound, but it makes it difficult for all food scraps to get into the unit. It also means it doesn’t drain well, which can dirty your sink.
Always be careful when pushing food into the unit, and ensure the disposal is switched off before doing this. Otherwise, you can risk injury.
Product Specs
| Type | Continuous feed |
| HP | 3/4 |
| Noise Level | Quiet |
| Dimensions | 8.75 x 8.75 x 12.6 inches |
| Warranty | Six years |
Our Ratings
American Standard ASD-1250 Torque Master
Best High-Capacity Garbage Disposal
If you want something with ultimate power — especially for large families — look no further than the American Standard Torque Master. With the highest horsepower on our list, this unit comes in at 1.25 HP.
This is incredibly powerful, especially for people with lots of food waste, tough ingredients to dispose of, or more than eight people living in the house.
What We Like
Powerful High-Speed Motor
The high-speed motor boasts 1.25 HP and 2800 RPM. This unit can quickly shred and grind up most ingredients — even chicken bones and fruit peels — in just a few seconds.
We also love that it’s quiet, which is exactly what you need with lots of people living in the house. While the kids are sleeping, you can turn this on without waking anyone up. It has an Insulated Sound Shell which aids its low noise level.
Bio-Shield Prevents Odors
This disposer comes with a Bio-Shield. Inside, an antimicrobial agent protection gets rid of garbage disposal smell caused by bacterial growth.
So you can toss in any food — coffee, vegetables, and small bones — without worrying about bacteria or microorganism growth. Plus, it’s safe to use with septic tanks.
Silver Magnetic Guard Captures Metal Objects
Included with this unit is a Silver Guard Magnet. It’s attached under the sink around the throat of the disposer. It captures most metal objects, so they don’t enter the disposer chamber.
This feature prevents damage to cutlery, metal objects, and the disposer. That way, you can save money on repairs and increase the unit’s lifespan.
Budget-Friendly Price Point
At less than the average unit cost, this one is a hit with customers on a budget. Plus, it’s covered by a 10-year warranty, so you know you’ll get your money’s worth if anything goes wrong.
What We Don't Like
Rubber Splash Guard
It’s important to note the rubber splash guard. It creates a good seal around the drain, but the flaps warp easily, which is both unaesthetic and inconvenient.
Feels Cheaply Made
A few customers described that the unit felt it was cheaply made. It was a little tricky to install, quite bulky, and required regular maintenance.
Product Specs
| Type | Continuous feed |
| HP | 1.25 |
| Noise Level | Quiet |
| Dimensions | 15.5 x 8.7 x 8.7 inches |
| Warranty | 10 years |
Our Ratings
Moen GXS75C Host Series 3/4 HP
Best No-Jam Garbage Disposal
There’s nothing more annoying than when a garbage disposal jams all the time. That totally defeats the point!
With the Moen GXS75C, that’s one problem you don’t have to worry about. It has a high ¾ horsepower. Combined with the 2700 RPM, it rarely ever jams.
The high-performance permanent magnet motor is specifically designed to reduce jams since it finely grates up the food.
What We Like
Powerful Unit for Most families
This powerful unit has a ¾ HP — the recommended size for most families, between three and six people. This will be the best size if you have average or moderate food waste.
Compact To Fit Under Most Sinks
This unit’s sleek and compact design makes it suitable for most homes. It’s lightweight and frees up space under your sink. Another bonus: it has a Universal Xpress Mount. Simply position, twist and lock it into place.
Quality Vortex Motor
This unit has a high-quality Vortex motor, which makes it so powerful. It has exceptional grinding power to tackle most ingredients.
The permanent magnet motor fires up at full speed as soon as it’s switched on. Plus, this motor helps to reduce jams.
Exclusive 360-Degree Clean Rinse
Garbage disposal units can get smelly since they deal with a lot of food waste. But this unit has a unique feature to rinse away food scraps more thoroughly, which can lead to fewer odors.
What We Don't Like
Noisy Unit
Despite the Sound Shield insulation — this is a noisy unit. It has a loud click noise, and while it’s operating, customers say it’s far from quiet. If you want something with minimal noise or live in an apartment building, this might not be the unit for you.
Not for Tough Food Waste
While some of our other recommendations can grind up fruit rinds and animal bones, this one is more basic. You shouldn’t pass through bones, stringy vegetables, or other tough ingredients — it just can’t handle it.
Product Specs
| Type | Continuous feed |
| HP | 3/4 |
| Noise Level | Loud |
| Dimensions | 9.69 x 9.69 x 14.88 inches |
| Warranty | Five years |
Our Ratings
Moen GXB75C Host Series
Best Batch-Feed Garbage Disposal
For ensured safety, many people choose a batch-feed garbage disposal.
The Moen GXB75C only works once you’ve engaged and locked the batch feed stopper. This prevents unwanted items from getting in while the disposer is in use.
Sure, it processes a little at a time, so it does take longer than a continuous feeder. But we like that you control what’s in there and what’s happening.
What We Like
Powerful 2700 RPM Motor
The Moen GXB75C has ¾ HP, which is recommended for families, even if you have a lot of dinner guests. It can handle most scraps of food and leftovers, of course, feeding it in using small batches. It grinds at 2700 RPM, which does the job efficiently and reduces the chance of jamming.
SoundSHIELD Technology Minimizes Noise
This is one of our quieter options. While the noise level is still noticeable, it’s not too loud. It uses SoundSHIELD sound-deadening insulation to reduce noise levels without compromising the unit’s power.
Easy To Install
This unit is easy to install, especially if you are replacing an old garbage disposal. This unit fits most existing setups, even from other brands. It also comes with a pre-installed power cord, so you don’t have to go out of your way to buy one.
10-Year Warranty
With a lengthy 10-year warranty, you can rest assured you’re getting your money’s worth. This unit is on the more expensive side, but with eight year’s reassurance, you can sit back, relax and let your food grind!
What We Don't Like
No Protective Gasket
Unfortunately, there’s no protective gasket with this unit. So if something falls in, it’s in there. Of course, you can work on getting it out before you start the unit, but it would be much more convenient if there were a separate gasket to prevent this in the first place.
Could Be Quieter
While this is a quiet unit, thanks to the SoundSHIELD technology, it’s not as silent as our other recommendations. If you want something that’s barely noticeable, this unit might disappoint.
Product Specs
| Type | Batch feed |
| HP | 3/4 |
| Noise Level | Fairly Quiet |
| Dimensions | 7.5 x 7.5 x 15.63 inches |
| Warranty | 10 years |
Our Ratings
Waste King Legend Series 1 HP
Best Warranty
Looking for extra reassurance when investing in a garbage disposal?
The Waste King Legend Series 1 HP has a lifetime warranty against mechanical and corrosion issues. If it malfunctions or fails to work — they will replace or repair it free of charge.
This is one of the best warranties in the business of garbage disposals. You can rest assured that you’re getting your money’s worth.
What We Like
High-Speed 2800 RPM Motor
This is a workhorse in the kitchen with a high horsepower of one and 2800 RPM. It’s compact but powerful. It keeps your kitchen sink clean and tackles everyday food scraps in a matter of seconds.
With this energy-efficient grinder, you never have to worry about jams or blockage again.
Quiet Humming Sound
You might think that the high horsepower and RPM means this disposal will be so loud that you’ll get a headache. Well, you thought wrong! This unit is super quiet, with customers comparing it to the sound of someone humming.
Easy To Clean the Unit
It’s important to clean your garbage disposal unit regularly. Thankfully, this one is a breeze to clean since the splash guard is removable. This allows you to get into the unit and clean it well.
Easy To Install
You’ll love how quick and easy this garbage disposal unit is to install. The EZ mount makes it quick to install, and the removable splashback makes for easy cleaning.
It also has a pre-installed electrical cord. So you don’t need any electrical experience to be able to slot this thing under your sink and get it working.
What We Don't Like
Plastic Parts
Although this is a durable product, it still has many plastic parts that don’t hold up as well as steel. For example, the grinder barrel is made with plastic on the top ⅔ of the barrel.
The drain flange is mostly plastic. It’s not super secure, and it breaks more easily than if it were made of steel.
However, all the grinding components are made from stainless steel.
Too Big for Tight Spaces
This unit is on the larger end of garbage disposals, so it’s not good for tight places or if you’re limited on kitchen space. The dimensions are 8.5 x 8.5 x 16 inches, so it’s much larger than average units. Make sure you have the space for this before purchasing.
Product Specs
| Type | Continuous feed |
| HP | One |
| Noise Level | Quiet |
| Dimensions | 8.5 x 8.5 x 16 inches |
| Warranty | 20 years |
Our Ratings
Waste King L-111 Garbage Disposal
Best Budget Pick
The Waste King L-111 is a popular product, especially if you’re on a budget. At this friendly price point, you still get a high-quality garbage disposal that is easy to install and has a continuous feed.
Because of the price, it does have a ⅓ HP motor, which isn’t the strongest.
However, if you use it properly, minimize your food scraps, and ideally, live on your own, this is an excellent choice!
What We Like
Compact and Lightweight
If you’re tight on space, this is a good option. It’s very compact (5.25 x 5.25 x 12.75 inches), so it should fit under most sinks. It’s also lightweight (7.5 pounds), making it easy to install.
The twist and lock design makes this handy little unit quick to install. Finally, a power cord is included.
Continuous Feed Unit
Many families prefer a continuous feed, like what the Waste King has to offer. A wall switch activates it, and it quickly grinds food waste continuously while it’s turned on. The blades can grind up most kitchen waste in a matter of seconds.
Durable Construction
This garbage disposal is made with a high-quality, corrosion-proof glass-filled nylon grind chamber. It has other stainless steel components which are reliable, long-lasting, and don’t rust.
Splash Guard for Easy Cleaning
This unit has a splash guard, which makes cleaning the disposal a total breeze. It’s also removable, making it easy to collect items you dropped in the unit. Plus, it’s replaceable, so if it becomes damaged, you can simply replace this one element rather than the whole unit.
What We Don't Like
Minimal Horsepower
Because this is on the lower end of the HP scale — being at ⅓ — don’t expect incredible power. It can’t handle a lot of food or stubborn scraps like fruit and vegetable peels or bones from meat.
Hard To Unclog Jams
Although not many customers complain about jams inside the machine, when there is a jam — it can be hard to remove. The opening is tough to access, so unclogging the unit is difficult, and you can’t see what you’re doing. Sadly, there isn’t much manufacturer guidance on how to fix jams.
Product Specs
| Type | Continuous feed |
| HP | 1/3 |
| Noise Level | Rather quiet, noticeable, but not too loud |
| Dimensions | 5.25 x 5.25 x 12.75 inches |
| Warranty | Two years |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Type | HP | Noise Level | Dimensions | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| InSinkErator Garbage Disposal Evolution Excel | Quiet Garbage Disposal | Continuous feed | 1 | Quietest — 45 decibels | 13 x 12 x 12″ | 7 years |
| InSinkErator Garbage Disposal + Air Switch | Continuous Feed Garbage Disposal | Continuous feed | 3/4 | Quiet | 8.75 x 8.75 x 12.6″ | 6 years |
| American Standard ASD-1250 Torque Master | High-Capacity Garbage Disposal | Continuous feed | 1.25 | Quiet | 15.5 x 8.7 x 8.7″ | 10 years |
| Moen GXS75C Host Series 3/4 HP | No-Jam Garbage Disposal | Continuous feed | 3/4 | Loud | 9.69 x 9.69 x 14.88″ | 5 years |
| Moen GXB75C Host Series | Batch-Feed Garbage Disposal | Batch feed | 3/4 | Fairly quiet | 7.5 x 7.5 x 15.63″ | 10 years |
| Waste King Legend Series 1 HP | Warranty | Continuous feed | 1 | Quiet | 8.5 x 8.5 x 16″ | 20 years |
| Waste King L-111 Garbage Disposal | Budget Pick | Continuous feed | 1/3 | Fairly quiet | 5.25 x 5.25 x 12.75″ | 2 years |
What Do Garbage Disposals Do?
A garbage disposal is an electrical unit installed between a sink drain and a trap. When it’s on, a spinning disc or plate turns quickly in a grinding chamber, chopping and shredding the food into tiny pieces so they can be washed away down the pipes.
Are Garbage Disposals Good for the Environment?
It depends. Many areas have a wastewater system that is committed to turning food waste into energy. However, the food waste could be going into the sewer systems or directly to landfill, which contributes to waste. We recommend checking with your local area to see what the situation is.
Overall, the best way to deal with food waste is to minimize it. This can be done through meal planning, prepping, or donating scraps. You can also compost food waste which is an eco-friendly option.
Do You Need a Garbage Disposal?
Even if you don’t have a lot of food waste or manage to compost most of your food — it’s still a good idea to have a garbage disposal. Little bits of rice, pasta, and vegetables can easily fall down the sink while you’re straining them. Or perhaps a family member always dumps out leftover cereal as they rush out the door.
Having a garbage disposal means your sink is less likely to get clogged. Just turn on the garbage disposal, which will shred up the food waste into tiny pieces, saving you money on a plumber!
Types of Garbage Disposal Systems
There are two types of garbage disposal systems: batch feed and continuous feed.
Batch Feed
Batch feed garbage disposals run in batches.
First, there is a cover that goes over the disposal entrance. You need to manually put food in there before turning it on.
This is great because it ensures premium safety. No accidental finger injuries or automatic starting if you accidentally drop something special — like jewelry — into the sink. However, it does take longer, and these garbage disposals can be more expensive.
Pros
- These models are safe since the stopper needs to be placed properly.
- No risk of injury.
- Great for small amounts of food waste.
- Works well on kitchen island counters.
- You have control over the power and water usage.
- Easy to install.
- They generally operate more quietly.
Cons
- They are more expensive than continuous feed models.
- It takes much longer to grind food up.
- Not best for large amounts of food waste.
- Replacement covers cost a bit of money.
- They take up more space beneath the sink.
- They clog more easily.
Continuous Feed
Continuous feed garbage disposals are more common. They keep running from when you turn them on until you switch them off again.
Many brands make continuous feed models, meaning you should find something within your budget. They can also handle more food, which is great for bigger families. The main drawbacks are that they aren’t as safe as batch feed garbage disposals and they use more water.
Pros
- Available in a range of budgets.
- Best for large amounts of food waste.
- Great for more populated households.
- Reduced risk of clogging.
- This model is always on, so it helps you keep your kitchen clean as you cook.
Cons
- Since the drain is always open and the motor running, these models aren’t as safe.
- They use more water and energy.
- It will try to grind anything that enters it, including silverware or jewelry.
How To Choose the Best Garbage Disposals
Let’s look at the top details to consider when choosing a new garbage disposal unit.
Size
Garbage disposals come in a variety of sizes.
Will Any Garbage Disposal Fit?
Garbage disposal units are not usually universal. So, you will need to find one that fits your sink. It’s best to get a plumber to investigate this.
This will involve measuring the connection size from the garbage disposal unit to the drain. Since there are many options available, you’ll find one that fits your sink.
What Size Garbage Disposal Is Best?
Ensure that the option you choose will fit underneath your sink. Always check the dimension of the unit against the space you have available. Measure the length, width, and height to ensure compatibility.
You should also check the connection size of the unit to ensure it can fit the sink drain. If it doesn’t fit, you can choose a different unit or buy an adaptor to connect the pieces.
Local Regulations
Before you buy, contact your local area or building authority to check that garbage disposal units are allowed in your community. Not all areas have sewage systems that are compatible with municipal waste. This leads to plumbing issues as it can easily clog the pipes.
If this is already an issue, we don’t recommend a garbage disposal.
Family Needs and Horsepower
Choose your unit based on how many people are in your household. That will determine the horsepower (HP) to go for.
- ⅓ HP — one to two people.
- ½ HP — two people.
- ¾ HP — three to five people.
- ⅝ HP — three to six people.
- 1 HP — five to eight people or commercial properties.
- 2 HP — eight people or more, plus bigger commercial properties.
If you generate a lot or little food waste, go up or down a size to suit those needs.
Something To Note
Budget
Garbage disposals aren’t cheap, but they come at various prices. Our research found the price ranges from about $60 to $400, with the average being around $150.
If you want more bang for your buck, check out the warranty to get a rough idea of how long the unit should last.
Noise Levels
Garbage disposals can be super quiet or rather loud. The higher the HP, the more likely it is to be quiet because of the extra insulation.
If you’re bothered by loud noises, look at the features. It might have sound-quieting technology, extra insulation, or coated blades.
Ease of Installation
Most garbage disposals will come with instructions for relatively easy installation. This varies depending on the brand.
Do I Need a Plumber To Install a Garbage Disposal?
You can do it yourself. But if this isn’t the job for you, you can definitely hire a plumber.
Warranty
Garbage disposals come with a range of warranty periods, but it’s important to consider this factor. Our recommendations range from having a two-year warranty up to 20 years.
How Long Does a Garbage Disposal Last?
Your garbage disposal should last around 10 years, but hopefully, it lasts up to about 15 (1). However, warranty covers can range from one to 20 years.
How Much Does a Plumber Charge To Replace a Garbage Disposal?
Depending on your area, the price generally varies between $180 and $380 (2). Keep in mind this does not include the price of the garbage disposal unit.
FAQs
Can You Run the Garbage Disposal While the Dishwasher Is On?
The dishwasher and garbage disposal most likely share the same drainage pipes. You can get clogged pipes if there are remaining food particles in the garbage disposal before using the dishwasher.
However, you definitely can run the garbage disposal while the dishwasher is on. Just be cautious about how much you put down the disposal. Generally, the pipes are already pumping away waste, so go ahead and use it!
What Causes Garbage Disposals To Leak?
Here are a few reasons why your garbage disposal might be leaking:
- There is a loose seal somewhere. This is most likely on the sink flange. It can be fixed with some plumber’s putty.
- The internal seal in the garbage disposal unit is broken, which can happen over time.
- The drain lines have become disconnected. You’ll need to tighten or reseal the connections.
What Can I Do With My Old Garbage Disposal?
If it still works, you can donate it. If it doesn’t work, you can recycle it according to manufacturer instructions and your local area’s guidelines.
You could even upcycle it into a kind of blender. Deep clean it, put it over a bucket and put fruit and vegetables through it to get nice, pressed juice.
Can You Sharpen Garbage Disposal Blades?
Many garbage disposals don’t use blades — instead, they have a grinding chamber. But to clean and sharpen the blades or to clean out a grinding chamber, try this method:
- Add salt and ice: Throw a handful of salt and 10 ice cubes into the garbage disposal with running cold water.
- Run the unit: Run the garbage disposal for one minute. The ice cubes will help to sharpen the blades. The salt will scrub the grinding chamber.
- Flush: Flush with cold water for 15 seconds to drain away all remaining debris.
Why Does My Garbage Disposal Smell Like Sewer?
If this is the case, get it checked out as soon as possible. It’s likely that something has happened within the system, and it can be a health hazard.
Some sewer gases can be toxic and irritable, especially to people with compromised immune systems (3). Call a plumber or professional garbage disposal service immediately.
