A narrow kitchen trash can fits where standard cans won’t. In small apartments, every inch matters. The right narrow kitchen trash can slides into gaps beside the refrigerator, between cabinets, or in corners too tight for anything else.
This guide reviews the best narrow kitchen trash can options for small apartments, from ultra-slim to slimline designs.
Contents
What Makes a Good Narrow Kitchen Trash Can
When choosing a narrow kitchen trash can for small spaces:
- Width under 10 inches – Fits in tight gaps
- Tall design – Maintains capacity despite narrow width
- Secure lid – Contains odors in small kitchens
- Easy bag changes – Critical in tight spaces
- Stable base – Won’t tip when narrow
The best narrow kitchen trash can feels invisible until you need it.
Best Narrow Kitchen Trash Cans
1. Best Overall: simplehuman Slim Step Can
Dimensions: 10.8″ W x 11″ D x 25.2″ H Capacity: 10 gallon (40L) Price: $80-100
The gold standard for narrow kitchen trash can design. Step pedal opens lid hands-free.
Pros:
- Slim profile fits tight spaces
- Soft-close lid
- 10-year warranty
- Fingerprint-proof steel
- Custom-fit liners available
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Proprietary liners cost more
Best for: Those who want the best quality.
2. Best Budget: Rubbermaid Slim Jim
Dimensions: 11″ W x 9″ D x 24″ H Capacity: 8 gallon (30L) Price: $25-35
Commercial quality at consumer price. Ultra-durable construction.
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Extremely durable
- Easy to clean
- Uses standard bags
Cons:
- No step pedal (hand lift)
- Basic appearance
Best for: Budget-conscious shoppers.
3. Thinnest Option: SONGMICS Slim Can
Dimensions: 8.7″ W x 11″ D x 24.4″ H Capacity: 8 gallon Price: $45-55
Under 9 inches wide. The thinnest narrow kitchen trash can available.
Pros:
- Ultra-thin 8.7″ width
- Step pedal
- Soft-close lid
- Inner bucket for easy cleaning
Cons:
- Smaller capacity
- Less sturdy than competitors
Best for: The absolute tightest spaces.
4. Best Dual Compartment: Joseph Joseph Split
Dimensions: 10.8″ W x 12.4″ D x 25″ H Capacity: 8 gallon total (2 x 4 gallon) Price: $50-70
Two compartments for trash and recycling in one slim unit.
Pros:
- Trash and recycling together
- Saves having two cans
- Removable buckets
- Step pedal
Cons:
- Each compartment is small
- Requires more frequent emptying
Best for: Recyclers who lack space for two cans.
5. Best Touch-Free: iTouchless Slim Sensor Can
Dimensions: 9.9″ W x 11.8″ D x 24.5″ H Capacity: 13 gallon Price: $70-90
Motion sensor opens lid automatically. No touching required.
Pros:
- Hands-free operation
- Large capacity for slim design
- Odor filter included
- AC adapter or battery
Cons:
- Requires batteries or outlet
- Sensor can be sensitive
Best for: Those who want touchless convenience.
According to Consumer Reports, step-pedal cans offer the best balance of hygiene and convenience for kitchen use.
6. Best Pull-Out: Rev-A-Shelf Single Pull-Out
Dimensions: 10.5″ W x 22″ D x 19″ H Capacity: 8 gallon Price: $60-80
Mounts inside cabinet. Pulls out on slides. Completely hidden.
Pros:
- Hidden inside cabinet
- Keeps trash out of sight
- Full-extension slides
- Professional appearance
Cons:
- Requires cabinet space
- Installation needed
- Takes cabinet storage
Best for: Those with a spare base cabinet.
Narrow Kitchen Trash Can Comparison
| Model | Width | Capacity | Type | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| simplehuman Slim | 10.8″ | 10 gal | Step | $80-100 |
| Rubbermaid Slim Jim | 11″ | 8 gal | Manual | $25-35 |
| SONGMICS | 8.7″ | 8 gal | Step | $45-55 |
| Joseph Joseph Split | 10.8″ | 8 gal | Step | $50-70 |
| iTouchless Slim | 9.9″ | 13 gal | Sensor | $70-90 |
| Rev-A-Shelf | 10.5″ | 8 gal | Pull-out | $60-80 |
Where to Put a Narrow Kitchen Trash Can
Best locations for a narrow kitchen trash can in small apartments:
| Location | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Between fridge and wall | Uses dead space |
| End of counter run | Easy access while cooking |
| Inside cabinet (pull-out) | Completely hidden |
| Corner of kitchen | Out of walkway |
| Under sink (if room) | Hidden but accessible |
Avoid placing near stove (fire risk) or blocking cabinet doors.
Narrow vs Slim vs Thin: What’s the Difference?
These terms are often used interchangeably, but here’s the general meaning:
| Term | Typical Width | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Narrow | 9-12 inches | General tight spaces |
| Slim | 10-11 inches | Standard narrow option |
| Thin/Ultra-thin | Under 9 inches | Extremely tight gaps |
| Slimline | 10-12 inches | Marketing term for slim |
For most small apartments, a narrow kitchen trash can in the 10-11 inch range offers the best balance of slim profile and usable capacity.
Bag Tips for Narrow Trash Cans
Standard kitchen bags often don’t fit narrow cans well. Options:
- Custom-fit liners – simplehuman and others sell bags sized to their cans
- Tall kitchen bags – 13 gallon bags often fit 8-10 gallon slim cans
- Drawstring bags – Secure better than flap-tie in narrow cans
- Compostable bags – Available in slim sizes for eco-conscious users
Custom-fit bags cost more but fit perfectly and look cleaner.
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