Best Trash Cans for Restaurants: 2 Spec-Based Picks
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Finding the best trash cans for restaurants requires focusing on durability and capacity. We compared 2 models using only the specifications published on their listings. The EKO Urban 24 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can leads because its 90-liter round size offers high-capacity waste disposal. This sturdy unit measures 17.6 inches wide and 29.6 inches tall. Its stainless steel construction ensures long-term use in busy kitchens. This guide helps you decide which bin fits your space and workflow needs.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | EKO Urban 24 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can Best overall | high-capacity restaurant waste disposal | Check price of EKO Urban 24 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can on Amazon |
| 2 | Simpli-Magic 18.5 Gal Stainless Steel Dual Bin Best budget | separating waste and recycling | Check price of Simpli-Magic 18.5 Gal Stainless Steel Dual Bin on Amazon |
The best fit for you
- You need high capacity for general waste EKO Urban 24 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can Its 90-liter round size offers ample space for heavy restaurant waste volumes.
- You want to separate waste and recycling Simpli-Magic 18.5 Gal Stainless Steel Dual Bin The dual compartment design allows you to sort trash and recyclables efficiently.
- You prefer a round footprint for placement EKO Urban 24 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can The EKO model features a round shape with equal 17.6-inch width and length.
Our 2 picks
EKO Urban 24 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can
Best for: high-capacity restaurant waste disposal
- Target Space
- Restaurants, Office (what this guide is about)
- Capacity
- 24 Gallon / 90L
- Opening Mechanism
- Open Top
- Primary Material
- Stainless Steel
- Dimensions
- 17.6 × 17.6 × 29.6 inches
- Weight
- 17 pounds
View on Amazon: EKO Urban 24 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can Affiliate link
The EKO Urban 24 Gallon trash can is a round stainless steel bin designed for restaurant use. It holds 24 gallons and features an open top for easy disposal. The brushed finish resists fingerprints. Side handles and a skid-resistant base aid mobility and stability. This tall commercial bin fits indoor or outdoor settings where durable, simple waste management is needed.
Pros
- 24 Gallon / 90 Liter capacity
- Brushed stainless steel finish
- Open top design
- Side handles for mobility
- Skid-resistant base
Cons
- Round shape occupies more floor space than rectangular models
- Open top lacks a lid to contain odors
- Manual operation only
Good fit if
- You need a high-capacity bin for busy restaurant areas
- You prefer a durable stainless steel construction
- You want a simple open-top design for quick disposal
Skip if
- You require a rectangular bin to fit tight corners
- You need a lid to control smells
- You prefer a smaller footprint for narrow spaces
Verdict: EKO Urban 24 Gallon Round Stainless Steel is a sturdy, high-capacity option for restaurants that prioritize durability and easy access over odor containment or space efficiency.
Simpli-Magic 18.5 Gal Stainless Steel Dual Bin
Best for: separating waste and recycling
- Target Space
- Restaurants (what this guide is about)
- Capacity
- 70 Liter / 18.5 Gallon
- Opening Mechanism
- Open Top
- Compartment Count
- Dual Compartment
- Primary Material
- Stainless Steel
- Dimensions
- 24 × 13.4 × 26.9 inches
View on Amazon: Simpli-Magic 18.5 Gal Stainless Steel Dual Bin Affiliate link
This Simpli-Magic unit offers 18.5 gallons of total capacity split between two compartments. The stainless steel construction is fingerprint-resistant and easy to clean. Its open top design allows for hands-free disposal, which is useful in busy restaurant environments. The wide opening makes tossing waste quick. It measures 24 by 13.4 by 26.9 inches and weighs 22 pounds. The dual setup helps you sort waste and recycling efficiently without sacrificing overall space.
Pros
- Dual compartment design for waste and recycling
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel exterior
- Hands-free open top operation
- Wide opening for quick disposal
Cons
- Fixed open top lacks a lid
- Requires manual liner changes
- Plastic inner buckets may wear over time
Good fit if
- You need to separate trash from recycling
- You want a hands-free disposal method
- You prefer a stainless steel finish
Skip if
- You need a lid to contain odors
- You require a smaller footprint
- You want a foot-pedal mechanism
Verdict: Simpli-Magic 18.5 Gal Dual Compartment Trash Can fits restaurants that need to sort waste efficiently. It suits busy spaces where hands-free disposal is a priority.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | EKO Urban 24 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can | Simpli-Magic 18.5 Gal Stainless Steel Dual Bin |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 24 Gallon / 90L | 70 Liter / 18.5 Gallon |
| Opening Mechanism | Open Top | Open Top |
| Compartment Count | not stated | Dual Compartment |
| Primary Material | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Target Space | Restaurants, Office | Restaurants |
| Color | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Dimensions | 17.6 × 17.6 × 29.6 inches | 24 × 13.4 × 26.9 inches |
| Weight | 17 pounds | 22 pounds |
| Size | 90 Liter, Round | Extra Large |
| Model | EK9055-90L | 79655A |
Choosing the right trash can
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Check the footprint width
Measure your available floor space before buying. The EKO Urban measures 17.6 inches wide, making it suitable for standard corners. The Simpli-Magic is wider at 24 inches but narrower in depth. Ensure the unit fits your kitchen layout without blocking walkways. Narrower bins like the Simpli-Magic may fit tighter spaces better. Verify dimensions against your specific installation area to avoid placement issues later.
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Assess total waste volume
Select capacity based on your daily waste generation. The EKO Urban provides a large 90-liter round capacity, ideal for high-volume restaurant operations. It handles heavy waste loads efficiently. The Simpli-Magic offers an extra-large size but splits the volume. If you generate significant trash, the single large bin of the EKO Urban is practical. Match the liter capacity to your expected daily disposal needs to prevent overflow.
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Consider waste sorting needs
Determine if you need to separate recycling from trash. The Simpli-Magic features a dual compartment design for this purpose. It allows you to sort waste efficiently in one unit. This is useful for busy kitchens with strict recycling protocols. The EKO Urban has a single compartment. If sorting is not a priority, the single bin is simpler. Choose based on your facility's waste management requirements and local regulations.
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Evaluate material durability
Both options use stainless steel for durability. This material resists corrosion and is easy to clean in commercial environments. The EKO Urban weighs 17 pounds, providing a sturdy base. The Simpli-Magic weighs 22 pounds, offering additional stability. Heavier units are less likely to tip over. Stainless steel surfaces withstand frequent cleaning and harsh chemicals. Ensure the material meets your hygiene standards for restaurant waste disposal areas.
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Review height constraints
Check the height to ensure it fits under shelves or counters. The EKO Urban stands 29.6 inches tall. The Simpli-Magic is slightly shorter at 26.9 inches. If you have low clearance, the shorter bin may be necessary. The height also affects how easily you can load waste. Ensure the bin height allows for comfortable use by your staff. Verify that the height does not obstruct any nearby equipment or storage.
Frequently asked questions
Which trash can is best for high-volume restaurant waste?
The EKO Urban 24 Gallon Stainless Steel Trash Can is the top pick for high-capacity needs. It features a 90-liter round size that handles heavy daily waste. Its sturdy stainless steel construction ensures durability in busy kitchens. This model prioritizes capacity and easy access over compact design or odor control.
How do I separate waste and recycling in a restaurant?
The Simpli-Magic 18.5 Gal Stainless Steel Dual Bin is designed for efficient sorting. Its dual compartment layout allows you to separate trash from recyclables simultaneously. This setup suits busy spaces where hands-free disposal is a priority. You can maintain clean separation without needing multiple separate containers.
What size trash can fits a small restaurant kitchen?
The Simpli-Magic model measures 13.4 inches in width and 26.9 inches in height. Its 18.5-gallon capacity is suitable for moderate waste volumes. The EKO Urban is larger at 17.6 inches wide and holds 90 liters. Choose the smaller footprint if floor space is limited in your prep area.
Are stainless steel trash cans durable for commercial use?
Both listed models are made from stainless steel for long-term durability. The EKO Urban weighs 17 pounds and the Simpli-Magic weighs 22 pounds. These weights suggest solid construction capable of withstanding daily commercial use. Stainless steel also resists corrosion and is easy to clean in food service environments.
Do I need a round or rectangular trash can?
The EKO Urban has a round footprint, which fits well in corners. The Simpli-Magic is rectangular, measuring 24 inches in length. A round can saves space in tight areas. A rectangular bin may offer more organized sorting for dual compartments. Choose based on your available floor layout and waste sorting needs.
What is the capacity of the best restaurant trash can?
The EKO Urban offers a 90-liter capacity, which is approximately 24 gallons. This high volume supports heavy waste generation in restaurants. The Simpli-Magic provides an extra-large size for its dual bins. Select the higher capacity if your restaurant generates significant daily waste volume.