Choosing one of the best trash compactors can reduce the number of trips you take to the dumpster. A trash compactor reduces the volume of the trash so that you can minimize this nasty chore.
Are you looking for something to go under the counter or something manual? Perhaps you’d prefer a budget-friendly option? Either way, we’ve got you. To create this list, we spent hours researching dozens of products and hundreds of real customer reviews.
With our seven best trash compactor recommendations, you’ll find something suitable for your home.
- 80 percent compacting ability
- Anti-jam sensors included
- Sound-Reduction system minimizes noise
- Rubber handle grip
- Multiple use tool
- Dual amount of trash per bin
- Hands-free filling operation
- Anti-jam feature
- Four times trash reduction
- Four times reduction
- Anti-jam feature
- Quiet Pack technology reduces noise
- 66% less trash volume
- Anti-tear and stretch design
- 10-year guarantee
- 26-gallon capacity
- Easy to clean
- Compact size suits smaller spaces
- Removable key lock for safety
- Hands-free opening design
- Automatic anti-jam design
The Best Trash Compactors of 2024
Hours of research into customer reviews, expert advice, and product descriptions have gone into creating this list. We studied each product’s type, size, reduction ratio, capacity, and odor-controlling ability.
Keep reading to meet trash compactors that will change your garbage routine. Let’s go!
KitchenAid - 1.4 Cu. Ft. Built-In Trash Compactor
Best for Under the Counter
For something that easily slots into your cabinet space, the KitchenAid 1.4 Trash Compactor is a great choice. It’s sleek, classy and comes in two color options: silver or gray.
Save space in your kitchen by installing this compactor under the counter. It’s designed to compact your trash by up to 80 percent and minimize odors.
The new model even has a panel-ready design, so you can attach your own custom panel to the front. This way, it seamlessly matches the rest of your kitchen decor.
What We Like
80 Percent Compacting Ability
The KitchenAid trash compactor can reduce trash volume by 80 percent, which is astounding! So you’ll save space, trips to the dumpster, and also trash bags. Not only does this save you time, but it also saves you money and plastic waste.
Anti-Jam Sensors Included
This trash compactor has a handy anti-jam feature. It prevents the compactor from jamming. The machine uses sensors to find potential or existing jams. It then automatically adjusts the operator and power to avoid the system jamming.
Sound-Reduction System Minimizes Noise
If you want something that’s both seamless and quiet, then this is the trash compactor for you. It has a sound-reduction system to minimize noise. So you can utilize this when the rest of the family is sleeping or if you have neighbors.
Also, with this compactor, you can put glass inside. You will hear a noise when the glass breaks, but that’s the noisiest this machine will ever get.
Minimizes and Traps Odors
Since your trash might be sitting in the kitchen for five times longer with this unit, it’s important to minimize odors. This unit has a fan and charcoal filters to trap odors, so they don’t escape into your kitchen.
What We Don't Like
Awkward Foot Pedal
Customers don’t love the foot pedal control option. You need to step on it to open the drawer and remove items.
Customers find it awkward and hard to get used to. It’s small and hard to press down because it’s inconspicuously placed at the bottom of the unit.
Short Warranty
Keep in mind that the warranty for this product is only one year. For something so expensive, that warranty doesn’t give customers much reassurance that the product will last long. It also means repair costs need to come out of your pocket if there is damage after the one-year mark.
Product Specs
| Type | Built-in |
| Size | 34.1 x 15 x 24 inches |
| Reduction Ratio | Five |
| Capacity | 52.2 gallons |
| Odor | Yes, fan with charcoal filter |
Our Ratings
Trash Tamp Manual Compactor Hand Tool
Best Budget Option
While most trash compactors are expensive, reaching up to four digits, this hand tool is a fantastic option if you’re on a budget. While it is a manual option and requires you to roll your sleeves up, it’s a fraction of the cost — by a mile!
To use this tool, you simply assemble it, open your trash can, and plunge it in. This will push down the trash, compacting it so you can fit more trash per bag.
What We Like
Rubber Handle Grip
When I see a tool with a rubber handle, it’s always a box ticked. A rubber handle is more ergonomic and comfortable, making it easier to compact the trash.
Multiple Use Tool
While this is great for compacting trash, you can also use this for landscaping. Compress dirt or leaves with this handy tool and strong shaft.
Doubles the Amount of Trash Per Bin
Take out your trash less often or fit more in your outdoor bin. This tool can double your space by compressing your trash to half its original size. Customers sometimes found it compressed the garbage by up to 75 percent!
Durable and Compact Tool
This tool is built to last, and a limited lifetime warranty proves it. Besides that, it’s very compact and thin, making it easy to store in a cupboard or garage.
What We Don't Like
Handle Could Be Longer
At 39 inches, some customers found that the handle could be longer. If you use it for your large outdoor bin, this might not be enough height for the job.
Product Specs
| Type | Manual hand tool |
| Size | 39 x 9.4 x 2.6 inches |
| Reduction Ratio | Up to four |
| Capacity | N/A |
| Odor | N/A |
Our Ratings
Gladiator Freestanding Trash Compactor
Best Freestanding Trash Compactor
The Gladiator Freestanding Trash Compactor is industrial in appearance but excellent for home kitchens.
The freestanding design makes it a top choice for homes that don’t have free cabinet space to store a trash compactor.
It has a rugged, textured design that is easy to clean. Being on wheels, it’s also easy to move and transport.
What We Like
Hands-Free Filling Operation
If your hands are full when you approach the compactor, don’t worry! The Touch-Toe foot pedal opens the drawer for you. The bin flies open, even if it’s nearly full. So you can drop your next load of trash inside without ever having to touch the can.
Two Invaluable Safety Features
There are two prominent safety features: one to protect you and one to protect the machine. First up, there is a key to lock the device and protect children. Turn off the unit when it’s not in use, lock it then hide the key from children.
Secondly, this unit has an anti-jam feature. If the door is opened while the compactor is running, the compression ram automatically reverses to prevent the unit from jamming.
Four Times Trash Reduction
With the Gladiator compactor, you can reduce your trash volume by four times. It uses a compression force of 2,2000 pounds per square inch to reduce trash volume by 75 percent to powerfully crush trash and give you more space.
Easy To Maneuver
This unit is in wheels, making it easy to move from place to place. This is a handy feature in industrial or commercial kitchens. It has solid rubber casters for smooth transportation, but they also lock to keep the unit in one spot.
What We Don't Like
You Need Specific Trash Bags
You have to use low-density heavy-duty bags for the best results. Otherwise, the high pressure can rip the bags and leave you with a big mess. Customers also find that changing the bags requires a lot of steps and isn’t an easy process.
Product Specs
| Type | Freestanding |
| Size | 24 x 15 x 38 inches |
| Reduction Ratio | Four |
| Capacity | 42 gallons |
| Odor | No odor-fighting technology |
Our Ratings
Whirlpool Convertible Trash Compactor
Best Convertible Trash Compactor
A convertible trash compactor can be used as a freestanding option, or you can build it underneath your cabinets to save space. The Whirlpool convertible trash compactor is a popular and high-quality option.
It’s on wheels, so you can easily move it around your kitchen for ultimate versatility. It also comes in black or white, so you can match it to your existing decor.
What We Like
Four Times Trash Reduction
This unit has a four-times reduction ratio, so you can save 75 percent of trash space. Reduce your trips to the dumpster and plastic bag usage by up to four times. This saves both money and time!
Safe for Kids
The hidden and removable key knob provides ultimate safety. You can control accidents by utilizing this feature, so curious kids don’t risk injury with this unit in your home.
Anti-Jam Feature Included
Enjoy the anti-jam feature of this unit. If you open the door while in use, it will automatically reverse the compression jam to protect your machine.
Quiet Pack Technology Reduces Noise
Noise control is important to many customers, us included! The Whirlpool Convertible has Quiet Pack sound conditioning technology to reduce noise. Quietly run this machine, even while people are sleeping.
What We Don't Like
Unaesthetic Finish
If you decide to use this as a freestanding unit, be prepared for some ugly features. The back of the unit isn’t finished, so if it’s not against a wall, it can look unsightly.
It also has some holes at the top that are intended to be screwed into your cabinet. But when used as a freestanding unit, they just look unaesthetic.
No Lock Feature
For something this pricey, customers wish that it had a lock feature. This would mean when you compress the trash; it holds it down for a while to really minimize the volume.
Product Specs
| Type | Freestanding |
| Size | 24.4 x 15 x 34.2 inches |
| Reduction Ratio | Four |
| Capacity | 42 gallons |
| Odor | No odor-fighting technology |
Our Ratings
Joseph Joseph 30030 Intelligent Titan Compactor
Best Odorless Trash Compactor
Now you can compact your trash while controlling foul odors. This Joseph Joseph trash compactor has a fancy door control feature.
There is an integrated filter inside the lid. Install carbon filters, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how much better your kitchen smells!
What We Like
66 Percent Less Trash Volume
This trash compactor has a lot of room for waste. The 30-liter trash can now holds 90 liters when compacted. That’s a 66 percent increase — wow!
Keep Your Hands Clean
We love this can’s hygienic design. Only the inside of the bag touches the waste while the machine is compacting. This means that your trash can remains clean, and so do your hands!
Anti-Tear and Stretch Design
If you find your trash bags are ripping and stretching all the time, this trash can is a game-changer. It has an anti-tear and anti-stretch design to be more gentle on the liners.
You can use standard plastic trash liners for this can. But we do recommend extra-strong IW4 custom-fit liners for the best experience.
10-Year Guarantee
This trash compactor was built to last. You should be able to use it over 100,000 times before you notice wear and tear. To guarantee that, Joseph Joseph offers a 10-year warranty on this product.
What We Don't Like
Garbage Bags Slip Down
You may appreciate a bit more security if you choose this trash compactor. The garbage bags tend to slip down. Even if you use larger bags to avoid this issue, you might find they don’t fit well and cause clogs.
Crusher Could be Stronger
Some customers had problems crushing various items, such as bottles and aluminum cans. If you want something for recyclable items like this, you may want something with a bit more power and strength.
Product Specs
| Type | Freestanding |
| Size | 15.3 x 13.5 x 26.9 inches |
| Reduction Ratio | Three |
| Capacity | 24 gallons |
| Odor | Carbon filters |
Our Ratings
Household Essentials TK10XL-1 Trash Krusher
Best for Small Businesses
Do you run a small business and want to reduce your trips to the dumpster? Check out the Household Essentials TK10XL-1 Trash Krusher. It can reduce your waste volume by 50 percent.
Now you can cut your trips to the dumpster and use of plastic bags down by twice as much! It’s perfect for small businesses, as larger businesses would most likely need something with higher volume.
What We Like
26 Gallon Capacity
With this can, you get 13 gallons of capacity which is pretty generous on its own. But combine that with the compactor function, and you suddenly have 26 gallons of space! You can use low-density 13-gallon bags to provide good security and space for all your waste.
Easy To Clean
The exterior is stainless steel which means it’s simple to clean. Any stains can easily be wiped off with soap and water. The inner bin is removable, so you can take it outside to hose it down when it’s dirty.
Compact Size Suits Smaller Spaces
If you want something both compact and aesthetic, this is the trash can for you. Its compact size makes it easy to store in any kitchen. Put it underneath a countertop or in the corner of the room, where it will look discreet and classy.
User-Friendly Design
We love the extra features of this trash compactor. Firstly, it has a pedal, so you don’t have to touch the unit when opening it. When you remove your foot from the pedal, the lid closes softly to not annoy your coworkers.
We also appreciate the fingerprint-resistant finish, which minimizes mess. Finally, the stainless steel body is very durable and will withstand the test of time.
What We Don't Like
Compactor Comes Loose
If you open the lid and it hits the wall behind, the compactor top can come loose and fall into the trash. This is both super inconvenient and pretty gross to fish out of a dirty trash can.
It Dents Easily
While the stainless steel won’t break or gauge, it does dent easily. If you put this in a high-traffic area where people are bustling around, you can expect it to show some wear and tear.
Product Specs
| Type | Freestanding manual |
| Size | 17.5 x 14.6 x 25.5 inches |
| Reduction Ratio | Two |
| Capacity | 26 gallons |
| Odor | No odor-fighting technology |
Our Ratings
GE Built-In Trash Compactor
Most Powerful Trash Compactor
Compact your trash in seconds, thanks to the GE built-in trash compactor. The powerful motor runs at 2300 pounds of ram force. This compacts your trash in less than 30 seconds.
If you’re after fast speeds to get your trash under control in the blink of an eye, we think you’ll enjoy this. It also offers a 75 percent compression ratio so that you can hold up to four times as much trash.
What We Like
Removable Key Lock for Safety
Since this is a powerful tool, you want to keep away curious little hands. Thankfully, it has a hidden lock and start control that can only be activated using a key. Keep the key in a high place, out of reach of children, for ultimate safety.
Hands-Free Opening Design
Even if your hands are full, you can open the compactor drawer. There is a handy foot pedal so you can drop trash in.
There is also a second drawer with a side-release bin so you can remove trash bags easily.
Automatic Anti-Jam Design
When the trash compactor senses the door opening during the operation, it automatically reverses the compression ram. This prevents jamming.
2300 Pounds of Ram Force
Crush your trash in seconds with this high-powered technology. The garbage can will crush your trash in less than 30 seconds, using 2300 pounds of ram force. This is much more than a human could create!
What We Don't Like
Noisier Than Other Options
This trash compactor might get on your nerves if you’re sensitive to noise. The decibel rating isn’t specified, but customers complained of it being loud.
There’s No Handle
To open this unit, you have to use the drawer foot pedal. While this is convenient when your hands are full, it can be annoying to open at times. Having a handle as a second option would be great.
Product Specs
| Type | Built-in |
| Size | 35 x 14.87 x 24 inches |
| Reduction Ratio | Four |
| Capacity | 42 gallons |
| Odor | No odor-fighting technology |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Type | Size | Reduction Ratio | Capacity | Odor Control |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| KitchenAid Built-In Trash Compactor | For Under the Counter | Built-in | 34.1 x 15 x 24″ | Five | 52.2 gal. | Fan with charcoal filter |
| Trash Tamp Manual Compactor | Budget Option | Manual hand tool | 39 x 9.4 x 2.6″ | Three | N/A | None |
| Gladiator Freestanding Trash Compactor | Freestanding Trash Compactor | Freestanding | 24 x 15 x 38″ | Four | 42 gal. | None |
| Whirlpool Convertible Trash Compactor | Convertible Trash Compactor | Freestanding | 24 x 15 x 34″ | Four | 42 gal. | None |
| Joseph Joseph 30030 Intelligent Titan | Odorless Trash Compactor | Freestanding | 15.3 x 13.5 x 26.9″ | Three | 24 gal. | Carbon filters |
| Household Essentials Trash Krusher | For Small Businesses | Freestanding manual | 17.5 x 14.6 x 25.5″ | Two | 26 gal. | None |
| GE Trash Compactor | Powerful Trash Compactor | Built-in | 35 x 14.87 x 24″ | Four | 42 gal. | No odor-fighting technology |
What Does a Trash Compactor Do?
A trash compactor is a garbage can with a twist. They look similar to regular trash cans, but do much more.
Trash compactors use hydraulic pressure from your household’s water connection to crush the garbage. Some use a metal ram to compress the trash.
The waste then becomes a more compact size. That way, you can fit more in there before needing to take out the trash. When it’s full, you can easily bag and dispose of it as normal.
Caution
What Can You Put in a Trash Compactor?
Here are some things you can compact:
- Paper.
- Cans.
- Plastic containers.
- Wrappers.
- Debris you’ve swept up.
- Most food waste.
What Can You Not Put in a Trash Compactor?
Here are some things that should never go in a trash compactor:
- Raw meat and fish.
- Tough fruit peel.
- Personal hygiene items.
- Diapers.
- Shotgun shells or explosive items.
- Flammable materials.
- Containers of toxic materials, such as bleach.
- Aerosol cans.
- Lit cigarettes or other burning items.
- Batteries.
- Liquids.
- Wood.
- Glass jars or bottles.
- Electronic items.
- Dirt of gardening waste.
- Pet waste.
Types of Trash Compactors
Let’s review the four main types of trash compactors.
Built-In
If you’re on a mission to save space in the kitchen, then a built-in trash compactor is for you! These simply slot into your kitchen cabinet area for a seamless and practical solution to compacting trash. While these are more expensive, they are subtle and help contain odors.
Convertible
Get the best of both worlds with a convertible trash compactor. They can either be built-in, or you can leave them freestanding. You can switch it up when you want to redo your kitchen or when you’re moving house.
Free-Standing
If you don’t have free cabinet space in your kitchen, you can also choose a free-standing option. These replicate traditional trash cans.
Instead of built-in trash compactors, free-standing ones have a manual compacting function. So you’ll have to use a lever, button, or handle to initiate the compacting process rather than an automatic option.
Industrial or Outdoor Compactors
Industrial and outdoor compactors are best for commercial waste. Many businesses use these to make their waste more compact.
We won’t recommend any of these as they’re probably a bit too big for your home! But they still exist to handle tough and high-volume waste.
How To Choose the Best Trash Compactor
Here are the top criteria you should consider when shopping for a trash compactor.
Reduction Ratio
Arguably one of the most essential elements, the reduction ratio, is something to consider. This tells you how small the trash compactor can make your waste. For example, some compactors can reduce the waste to ⅕ of its original size, while others can cut the waste size in half.
Size
Always check the dimensions of the trash compactor to ensure it will fit in your given kitchen space. Generally, a trash compactor is around 24 inches by 15 x 30 — give or take five inches on all sides.
Also, consider the capacity to know how much waste the compactor can consume when the trash is compact. Our recommendations range from 18.5 gallons to 52.2.
Operation Mode
Check to see if the trash compactor works automatically or manually. Usually, a built-in or convertible trash compactor will be automatic. Manual compactors are more budget-friendly but take more effort.
Odor
Lastly, consider if the trash compactor has any odor-eliminating technology. Because you will take the trash out less often, it’s important to consider the odor.
The bad smells can start to radiate through your kitchen very quickly. But with odor-eliminating technology, this doesn’t need to be a problem.
Trash Compactor FAQs
Do Trash Compactors Need Special Bags?
Yes, you’ll need to look for low-density, heavy-duty trash compactor bags. We recommend getting the ones designed for your chosen machine to avoid inconvenience.
Trash compactors use high pressure, so you need a bag designed to withstand this. Compactor trash bags can carry more weight than everyday trash bags.
Can You Put Food in a Trash Compactor?
Most food can go in a trash compactor, but not raw meat, fish, or tough fruit peel like that from a grapefruit. You also shouldn’t put liquid in your trash compactor. That includes juice, oil, fat, and grease.
Can Trash Compactors Crush Cans?
Most trash compactors can crush aluminum cans quickly and easily. This saves space in your trash compactor.
How Do You Clean a Trash Compactor?
We recommend cleaning your trash compactor every couple of weeks to keep it in the best condition and avoid rotting food.
- Turn off the power: Always disconnect your trash compactor before cleaning. Unplug it if possible.
- Remove the trash bag: Take out the trash bag and remove any bits of food that have snuck underneath the bag. Wear protective gloves while doing this. You can also use a vacuum cleaner if you’d rather.
- Clean: Mix warm water and a few drops of dish soap in a spray bottle. Spray the entire interior of the trash compactor and let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Scrub: Using a clean damp cloth, scrub the inside of the trash compactor, removing dirt, buildup, and stains.
- Dry: With another cloth, thoroughly dry the interior to minimize the risk of mold and mildew buildup.
If you have drawers or rams, now’s the time to clean those, too. Just make sure not to dampen any electrical parts of your compactor.
How Do I Know if My Trash Compactor Is Full?
Visually, you can tell when it’s full. Plus, some compactors have an alert system or a sensor to tell you when it’s time to change the bag.
Why Are Trash Compactors Not Popular Anymore?
Trash compactors are no longer popular because they are too big and bulky, take up too much floor space, and the compacted trash cube doesn’t fit a standard garbage bin.
How Long Do Trash Compactors Last?
Trash compactors last approximately 10 years, depending on how often they are used and what trash you compact. They also need regular maintenance to increase their lifespan.
