I Splurged on a $200 Trash Can, and It Was 200% Worth It

For most people — including me, until recently — a trash can is an afterthought. Its job description is literally to contain your garbage, so why think twice about the details? Well, after moving into a new house and pretty much starting from scratch, I realized the following: Like my couch and dining room table, my trash can is something I use every single day. So why not make it an investment piece? 

The one I currently had was just fine, but it didn’t look so great. I also wanted to find a two-in-one product to store my trash and recycling, instead of having recyclables pile up in paper grocery bags on the floor. So when I spotted this beauty by simplehuman, I knew right away it was the one.

The simplehuman Dual Compartment Rectangular Step Can checks all the boxes for me. It has two compartments (one for trash, and the other for recyclables), is available in three sleek finishes (brushed silver, matte black, and all-white), and is easy to open and close with the pedal.

I knew right away it would fit perfectly on the side of our fridge, and that it would be a lot easier than buying an entirely separate bin for cans. We don’t have space beneath the sink to keep recycling (it’s where I keep all my cleaning supplies), and the idea of another giant can in our galley kitchen didn’t feel right. 

Although I was apprehensive about the $200 price tag, I can say that it was totally worth it. I’ve had the dual trash can/recycler for half a day, but I’m already so thankful I took the leap. It seems so inconsequential, but having more space (and less clutter) in my kitchen — a place I spend a lot of time in every day — will make a huge difference. But it’s not just the overall two-in-one thing that makes my life easier. The details of the piece are so thoughtful, too. 

I love the step feature — it’s honestly the smoothest step I’ve ever used — so I can easily throw things away if my hands are full. I also love that the bin has a built-in bag dispenser. I’ve thought about becoming the type of person who keeps extra trash bags at the bottom of the bin, but I always worry about what will happen if the bag leaks. The dispenser is tucked away in the side of the can — away from potential drips or smells. I don’t use a bag on the recycling side, but that bin has a handle, which makes it super easy to grab and dump when it’s full.

If you’re wondering if a $200 trash can is a worthwhile investment, I get it. I think a fancy, ultra-functional trash can is one of those things where you don’t realize what you’re missing until you try it. And I’m so glad I did — even if it means I have to skimp on less-important home stuff going forward. Plus, this model regularly goes on sale and can be found at your local Costco for half the price!

Buy: simplehuman Dual Compartment Rectangular Step Can, $200