This Popular Cookware Brand Now Sells Trash Cans, Here are My Honest Thoughts

I think we can all agree that trash cans are the least attractive part of any kitchen. They’re bulky, stinky, and, frankly, don’t bring anything to the table in terms of style. My old stainless steel trash can was in bad shape after 10+ years of use, and my recycling “bin” was really just a repurposed grocery bag. The arrangement wasn’t doing my kitchen any favors, so when I got the chance to test Caraway’s new trash and recycling duo, I was all in. Spoiler: It ended up turning my kitchen’s biggest eyesore into an elevated design accent. Here’s how. 

Caraway’s new Trash & Recycling collection includes three 45-liter bins: a slim step trash can, a rectangular step trash can, and a two-drawer recycling bin. Designed with clean lines and a smooth, fingerprint-proof exterior, the bins are design-forward and super functional. The trash cans feature a quiet, soft-close top and a removable liner that keeps bags firmly in place, while the recycling bin’s dual drawers and top hatch make tossing and sorting recyclables easy. Together, they form a seamless system. 

I tested the Rectangular Trash Can and Recycling Bin in Caraway’s classic cream shade. I opted for the rectangular model because its wider dimensions (27”x11”x18.5”) seemed most compatible with the narrow space where my trash and recycling usually go. I also positioned the recycling bin (27”x18.5”x11”) sideways, and it ended up working perfectly in my kitchen’s tricky layout. 

Here’s something I never thought I’d say about trash and recycling bins: They’re stylish. Thanks to the bins’ sleek shape and creamy color, everything looks clean and put-together. And the metal drawer pulls and step pedal add a hint of shine. I worried that the lighter color would make scuffs and marks more apparent, but that hasn’t been the case at all. After weeks of use, the bins still look brand-new. 

The Caraway trash can is a huge functional upgrade. It features a flip-up border between the lid and the base, which keeps the garbage bag from slipping (and provides a more seamless look). And instead of wrestling with the bin to take out the garbage like I used to, I can pull out the bag with minimal effort thanks to the removable liner. The liner also makes cleaning the interior so much easier; I haven’t experienced any spills or messes yet — further evidence that the bag stays securely in place — but if I do, it’s nice to know that cleanup will be a breeze. What’s more, the trash effectively contains odors, so the smell of last night’s leftovers doesn’t waft through my kitchen. 

I also love how versatile the bins are. As I mentioned, I positioned the recycling bin sideways to accommodate my kitchen’s narrow layout, and it’s been working out perfectly. It gives the entire trash area a cleaner look and frees up the already-cramped walking space in front of the bins. And it makes tossing recyclables so much easier — the accessible top hatch and separate drawers allow me to quickly sort papers and plastic without skipping a beat.

“After nearly five years with a silver can from a beloved brand (which eventually developed an annoying closing rattle), I was ready for an upgrade. Enter: Caraway’s soft-close lid. It’s whisper-quiet, and smooth every single time. And that cream color? It doesn’t just blend into my apartment; it elevates it. It’s sleek and functional — I never thought I could love a trash can so much.” —Katie Maguire, director of shopping content strategy

“What I love most about the Trash and Recycling Duo is its sleek design that streamlines the appearance of the trash and recycling cans, so there’s nothing sticking out to leave gaps between the wall and the bins. I typically prioritize function over style with my trash cans, but Caraway proves that it’s possible to have both and go beyond the usual black, white, or stainless steel options.” —Britt Franklin, senior shopping editor

Admittedly, $445 is a hefty investment for trash and recycling bins. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned after putting them to the test, it’s that they’re truly built to last — and they go a long way in elevating the entire look of a kitchen. My colleague clearly agrees, and I have a feeling that once you see them in your space you will too.

Buy: Caraway Trash & Recycling Duo (Rectangular), $445 (normally $490)