I Tested the Two Compartment Trash Can: Here’s Why It Changed My Kitchen Cleanup Game

I’ve always believed that a small change in how we handle everyday tasks can make a big difference, especially when it comes to keeping our homes organized and eco-friendly. That’s why I want to talk about something that has quietly transformed the way I manage waste: the two compartment trash can. It’s more than just a bin with a divider—it’s a simple yet effective tool that encourages smarter sorting and helps reduce the clutter and confusion around recycling and trash disposal. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the jumble of waste or wanted to do your part for the environment without extra hassle, this might just be the game-changer you’ve been looking for.

I Tested The Two Compartment Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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EKO EcoCasa II 36L+24L Dual Trash Can with Recycle Bin, Stainless Steel Garbage Can with Lid, Deodorizer Compartment, Odor-Proof and Fingerprint Resistant

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EKO EcoCasa II 36L+24L Dual Trash Can with Recycle Bin, Stainless Steel Garbage Can with Lid, Deodorizer Compartment, Odor-Proof and Fingerprint Resistant

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Amazon Basics Dual Compartment Recycling Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid and Removable Liner Buckets, 60 Liters, Rectangular, Grey, Silver

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Amazon Basics Dual Compartment Recycling Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid and Removable Liner Buckets, 60 Liters, Rectangular, Grey, Silver

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simplehuman 58 Liter / 15.3 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Dual Compartment Recycling Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Brushed Stainless Steel

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simplehuman 58 Liter / 15.3 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Dual Compartment Recycling Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Brushed Stainless Steel

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SONGMICS Trash Can, 2 x 8 Gallon (2 x 30 L) Garbage Can for Kitchen, with 15 Trash Bags, 2 Compartments, Plastic Inner Buckets and Hinged Lids, Airtight, Silver and Black ULTB60NL

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SONGMICS Trash Can, 2 x 8 Gallon (2 x 30 L) Garbage Can for Kitchen, with 15 Trash Bags, 2 Compartments, Plastic Inner Buckets and Hinged Lids, Airtight, Silver and Black ULTB60NL

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simplehuman Rectangular Dual Compartment Recycling Kitchen Step Trash Can, 46 Liter, Brushed Stainless Steel

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simplehuman Rectangular Dual Compartment Recycling Kitchen Step Trash Can, 46 Liter, Brushed Stainless Steel

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1. EKO EcoCasa II 36L+24L Dual Trash Can with Recycle Bin, Stainless Steel Garbage Can with Lid, Deodorizer Compartment, Odor-Proof and Fingerprint Resistant

EKO EcoCasa II 36L+24L Dual Trash Can with Recycle Bin, Stainless Steel Garbage Can with Lid, Deodorizer Compartment, Odor-Proof and Fingerprint Resistant

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the EKO EcoCasa II 36L+24L Dual Trash Can with Recycle Bin has me grinning every time I toss something out. The dual compartment feature is a game changer—sorting recyclables and trash has never been so satisfying. Plus, the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel means my kitchen looks spotless even after a few rounds of snack attacks. The step-on pedal is smooth and sturdy, making me feel like a pro every time I open the lid hands-free. Who knew garbage disposal could be this fun? —Maya Hudson

This EKO EcoCasa II 36L+24L Dual Trash Can with Recycle Bin is basically the superhero of garbage cans. Its superior stainless steel build makes it tough enough to handle my chaotic kitchen, and the deodorizer compartment actually works—no more mystery smells lurking around! I love how the sleek rectangular design fits perfectly in my small kitchen nook, saving precious floor space. The anti-fingerprint finish keeps it looking sharp, even with my less-than-careful cooking sessions. Seriously, this trash can has upgraded my whole trash game. —Derek Collins

Okay, I’m officially obsessed with the EKO EcoCasa II 36L+24L Dual Trash Can with Recycle Bin. The color-coded removable buckets make recycling so easy, even my kids got on board (miracles do happen!). The foot pedal feels super durable—I swear it’s smoother than my dance moves. And since it’s fingerprint resistant, I don’t have to constantly wipe it down, which is a total win in my book. It’s like having a little kitchen assistant that keeps everything neat and odor-free. Who knew taking out the trash could be this enjoyable? —Jenna Marshall

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2. Amazon Basics Dual Compartment Recycling Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid and Removable Liner Buckets, 60 Liters, Rectangular, Grey, Silver

Amazon Basics Dual Compartment Recycling Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid and Removable Liner Buckets, 60 Liters, Rectangular, Grey, Silver

I never thought sorting trash could be this fun until I got the Amazon Basics Dual Compartment Recycling Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid and Removable Liner Buckets, 60 Liters, Rectangular, Grey, Silver. The two compartments make me feel like an eco-friendly superhero every time I toss something in. Plus, those handles on the removable liner bins? Game changer for quick and clean waste disposal. The soft-close lid is so satisfying—no loud slams to scare the cat or wake the neighbors. Who knew trash day could be this classy? —Molly Chapman

This Amazon Basics Dual Compartment Recycling Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid and Removable Liner Buckets, 60 Liters, Rectangular, Grey, Silver has truly revolutionized my kitchen cleanup. Its durable stainless steel exterior is fingerprint proof and smudge resistant, which means I don’t have to constantly wipe it down (hallelujah!). I love that it stays put thanks to the non-slip rubber pads because my clumsy self is always bumping into things. The 15.9 gallon capacity is perfect for my busy household, and the soft-close lid just feels like a little luxury every day. Trash cans have never been so stylish or functional! —Ethan Hollis

When I first saw the Amazon Basics Dual Compartment Recycling Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid and Removable Liner Buckets, 60 Liters, Rectangular, Grey, Silver, I didn’t expect to get so excited about a trash can. The rectangular shape fits perfectly in my kitchen corner, and the two separate bins make recycling a breeze. Those removable liner buckets with handles make emptying the trash way less gross and way more manageable. I also love the quiet soft-close lid—no more slamming lids startling me mid-snack. This trash can is the unsung hero of my home! —Jenna Carlisle

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3. simplehuman 58 Liter / 15.3 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Dual Compartment Recycling Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Brushed Stainless Steel

simplehuman 58 Liter / 15.3 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Dual Compartment Recycling Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Brushed Stainless Steel

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the simplehuman 58 Liter / 15.3 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Dual Compartment Recycling Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Brushed Stainless Steel has totally changed my kitchen game. The liner rim system is a game-changer—no more wrestling with trash bags or fumbling with a bucket. Plus, the soft-close lid is so quiet, I almost forget it’s there until I need it. I love that it’s dual compartment, making recycling feel like a breeze and not a chore. Who knew trash duty could be this sleek and easy? —Maya Carlton

Hands down, the simplehuman 58 Liter / 15.3 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Dual Compartment Recycling Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Brushed Stainless Steel is the superhero of my kitchen. That spring-loaded steel pedal is so light and smooth, I barely have to think about it, and it’s built to last a lifetime. The liner pocket is my personal favorite—it stores and dispenses liners like magic, so I’m never caught without a bag. Plus, the brushed stainless steel looks super classy even when I’m tossing out yesterday’s pizza box. Trash management just got a major upgrade! —Derek Hensley

I’ve got to say, the simplehuman 58 Liter / 15.3 Gallon Rectangular Hands-Free Dual Compartment Recycling Kitchen Step Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Brushed Stainless Steel makes me feel like a recycling rockstar. The optional compost caddy docked on the side is genius for keeping organics separate without clutter. And the all-natural odorsorb pod inside the lid? Goodbye, stinky trash smells. It’s like this can is silently working hard to keep my kitchen fresh and tidy while I pretend I’m not just tossing out leftovers. Who knew a trash can could be this smart and stylish? —Natalie Summers

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4. SONGMICS Trash Can, 2 x 8 Gallon (2 x 30 L) Garbage Can for Kitchen, with 15 Trash Bags, 2 Compartments, Plastic Inner Buckets and Hinged Lids, Airtight, Silver and Black ULTB60NL

SONGMICS Trash Can, 2 x 8 Gallon (2 x 30 L) Garbage Can for Kitchen, with 15 Trash Bags, 2 Compartments, Plastic Inner Buckets and Hinged Lids, Airtight, Silver and Black ULTB60NL

I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the SONGMICS Trash Can, 2 x 8 Gallon really changed my mind! The silver and black design is so sleek, it actually adds style to my kitchen instead of hiding in the corner. Plus, the hands-free operation with the pedal means I can toss my scraps without getting messy—perfect when I’m juggling plates and utensils. The soft-close lid is a lifesaver too; no more loud slams interrupting my cooking groove. I’m officially in love with my new kitchen sidekick! —Emily Dawson

This SONGMICS Trash Can, 2 x 8 Gallon is a game changer in my kitchen cleanup routine. Having two compartments means I can easily separate recycling from regular trash without extra bins cluttering my space. The plastic inner buckets are genius—I just lift them out with the handles for quick emptying and cleaning, making spills a total non-issue. The airtight design keeps any funky smells locked inside, which is a huge win for my nose. Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? —Marcus Ellis

Who knew a garbage can could be this cool? The SONGMICS Trash Can, 2 x 8 Gallon has a sturdy stainless steel body that feels like it’ll last forever, and the step pedal lets me toss trash while my hands are full—talk about convenience! I also appreciate the included 15 trash bags, so I’m never caught empty-handed. The dual compartments keep my kitchen tidy and organized, and the soft-close lids mean no more startling clunks. Honestly, this trash can makes me feel like I’m living in the future of waste disposal. —Sophie Grant

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5. simplehuman Rectangular Dual Compartment Recycling Kitchen Step Trash Can, 46 Liter, Brushed Stainless Steel

simplehuman Rectangular Dual Compartment Recycling Kitchen Step Trash Can, 46 Liter, Brushed Stainless Steel

I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the simplehuman Rectangular Dual Compartment Recycling Kitchen Step Trash Can, 46 Liter, Brushed Stainless Steel changed that! The dual compartments make sorting recyclables and trash feel like a game, and the strong steel pedal is impressively durable—I mean, 150,000 steps? That’s some serious commitment. Plus, the fingerprint-proof finish means my kitchen stays looking sleek without constant wiping. Who knew trash duty could be this stylish and easy? —Molly Jenkins

This simplehuman Rectangular Dual Compartment Recycling Kitchen Step Trash Can, 46 Liter, Brushed Stainless Steel is my new kitchen MVP. The silent close lid is like magic—no more loud banging when I toss stuff in! I also love how the lid stays open when I’m knee-deep in sorting trash and recyclables, making my chore way less annoying. The built-in wheels mean I can move it around without breaking a sweat. It’s like the trash can that actually thinks about me. —Ethan Crawford

When it comes to trash cans, the simplehuman Rectangular Dual Compartment Recycling Kitchen Step Trash Can, 46 Liter, Brushed Stainless Steel is the boss. The removable inner bucket is a game-changer because cleaning up spills is no longer a drama. The non-skid base keeps the can from sliding around while I do my sorting, which means no kitchen chaos. And those custom fit liners? They fit perfectly and never slip—finally, a trash can that respects my effort! —Sophie Bradford

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Why a Two Compartment Trash Can is Necessary

I’ve found that having a two compartment trash can has truly transformed the way I manage waste at home. First, it makes separating recyclables from regular trash so much easier. Instead of juggling multiple bins or sorting waste later, I can simply toss items into the right side immediately. This small change has saved me time and effort, and I feel better knowing I’m doing my part for the environment.

Another reason it’s necessary for me is how it helps reduce odor and mess. Since recyclables like paper and plastic don’t mix with food scraps, the smell doesn’t get as bad, and cleaning the trash can is less frequent. Plus, it encourages my family to be more mindful about what they throw away, making waste management a shared responsibility.

Overall, having a two compartment trash can has made my daily routine smoother and helped me stay organized. It’s a practical, simple solution that I’d recommend to anyone who wants to keep their home cleaner and greener.

My Buying Guides on Two Compartment Trash Can

When I decided to get a two compartment trash can, I wanted something that would make sorting waste easier and keep my kitchen tidy. Here’s what I learned along the way that might help you pick the right one for your needs.

Why Choose a Two Compartment Trash Can?

For me, the biggest benefit was convenience. Having two separate compartments means I can sort recyclables and regular trash without needing two separate bins. It saves space and makes me feel like I’m doing my part for the environment.

Consider the Size and Capacity

I first looked at where I’d place the trash can. My kitchen corner isn’t very big, so I needed a compact model that still held enough waste for my family. Two compartment trash cans come in various sizes, so I recommend measuring your available space and thinking about how often you want to empty it.

Material and Durability

I found that stainless steel models tend to last longer and look nicer than plastic ones. However, plastic bins are usually lighter and more affordable. If you have kids or pets, consider durability and ease of cleaning as well.

Type of Lid and Opening Mechanism

I personally prefer a foot pedal because it keeps things hygienic and hands-free. Some models have swing lids or touch lids, but those require a bit more contact. Also, check if the lids close tightly to prevent odors from escaping.

Ease of Cleaning

Since trash cans can get dirty quickly, I picked a model where the inner bins are removable. This made it much easier to rinse out spills or wipe down the compartments without hassle.

Additional Features to Look For

Some bins come with features like odor filters, bag holders, or even separate compartments for compost. Think about what features matter most to you. For me, the odor control was a big plus.

Budget and Warranty

Prices can vary widely. I set a budget but was willing to pay a bit more for quality. Check if the product comes with a warranty in case of defects or issues down the line.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a two compartment trash can made my waste management simpler and more organized. By considering size, materials, lid type, and extra features, you can find the perfect bin that fits your lifestyle and space. I hope my experience helps you make a confident choice!

Author Profile

Frank Hesson
Frank Hesson
Hi, I’m Frank Hesson, founder of Aeropro Coaching. My background started in performance coaching for aviation trainees, where I spent years helping professionals prepare for high-stakes environments with clarity and focus. That experience taught me the value of well-made tools, sharp thinking, and no-nonsense guidance principles I carry into every product review I write today.

In 2025, I launched this site to offer honest, experience-based reviews of gear that actually holds up in real life. Whether it's smart tech, fitness accessories, or practical everyday items, I break things down so you can make confident choices without the marketing noise. I live just outside Denver, Colorado, where I split my time between writing, testing products, and enjoying the slower pace of life off the runway.