It’s probably only Oscar the Grouch who can… No, wait. Even he can’t make garbage cans less unseemly.
If only there were a way to send them off to a pocket dimension where they can sit and stink on their own until we need them. Alas, for now, we will have to make do with finding ways to keep them out of sight. So, today we’ll talk about garbage can storage from ideas and DIY projects to useful products and hacks. Get your cleaning gloves on because we’re diving deep.
Under sink garbage can ideas
1. Use that corner
Corners are a perfect place to stash your trash, especially because you are probably not using them for anything anyway.
If you’re building a new kitchen, take a peek first at this image from. Hopefully, that will give you an idea of how to deal with these two problems at once.
But if the corner is already there, you’re in luck. You can pick up a rotating recycling center like these ones from Knape & Vogt or KV.
2. Pull-out 2.0
Pull-out trash can systems are not new, but they did get better. For example, this model from Costzon and this one from Hafele have lids that automatically retract when you open the cabinet.
There is some assembly required, but it’s not a job for a handyman.
3. When nothing fits
Can’t fit any of these cans or you’re renting? No problem. You can always get your hands on a garbage bag holder. These guys take very little space, take less than a minute to install, and will work with any sink no matter what mess you have going on down there.
The Sunbeam Trashrac is a nice simple model with a lid, or check out this simplehuman version that also features a bag dispenser.
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Recycling solutions
4. Ikea to the rescue
You can buy a designer recycling sorting tower, or you can take a trip to your local Ikea and pick up a few of the gazillion storage boxes they sell.
I am a huge fan of the Sortera bins – not only because they stack well, but also because you can clearly mark each one. That way, that certain someone doesn’t have an excuse when they throw a soda can into the glass bin.
5. Cardboard waste tower tutorial
Usually, these tutorials require at least some woodworking skills. Not this one. As long as you know how to cut cardboard and use tape, you can make this waste tower.
It’s not the prettiest thing around, but it’s probably the cheapest (as in, probably free) garbage can storage idea.
Bathroom privacy
6. Cabinet garbage can storage
If you don’t want the garbage can in the bathroom to be on full display, chuck it into the cabinet. If you’re struggling to figure out how to make that happen, check out this hidden bin design.
This is very similar to one of those solutions for food waste we had above, and it can be used for the same purpose. It doesn’t take a lot of space so you can still store other things under the bathroom sink. Plus, it has a good seal and it’s opaque for maximum privacy.
7. Hidden paper bins
Even though most bathroom trash cans look nice, there are not many options that provide privacy. The previous option is great if you have cabinets. But, if you only have shelves, you may need to look in another department for a solution.
Hidden paper waste baskets are designed to go under work desks, and they can go under a shelf as well. If the shelf is low, no one will ever know it’s there.
Sheds and fences
8. A small space fence tutorial
For a small garden or a balcony, a simple fence will do just fine. Fences can be made with something as thin as plywood, so they have a small footprint and won’t eat up much real estate.
A fence is also a great project for a fledgling carpenter. For this project, you don’t even need power tools since you can pre-cut everything at the store when buying supplies.
Check out the list of materials and how to make a simple garbage can fence here.
9. A potting bench with a dirty secret (tutorial)
For every avid gardener that has been putting off making a proper potting bench, now’s the time to do it. Bethany from Reality Daydream will show you how. You’ll see all the pictures of her cute family working on this build, and you can download free plans from her blog.
It’s not the most beginner-friendly project, so hopefully, you have some experience under your belt. You will probably also need another pair of hands, and plan to spend the whole day putting everything together.
10. The sorting center (tutorial)
For a simpler project, check out this tutorial by Cassie Fairy from My Thrifty Life. She used pallets and leftover timber to create a simple shed. It features two large spaces for the cans and shelves for recycling. I’m amazed by all the things you can make from leftover pallets. Check out our DIY wooden Christmas trees that also features the use of a pallet.
It’s not a project that requires you to be a master carpenter, but you should still know your way around wood. You can take it to the next step by adding doors or a simple fence.
11. Let it grow
When you find that your garbage can shed looks too plain or that it stands out in a bad way, you can always give it a bit of pizzazz with some greenery.
All of the sheds above have built-in planters, but you can also upgrade a regular one with lots of pots and some soil. Then, either plant something that will offset the aroma like mint or lemon thyme or treat this surface as a continuation of your garden and plant your favorite flowers.
These guys are available for purchase in some home improvement stores or make one from scratch by following this tutorial.
More Garbage Can Storage Ideas and Tips
One of the best ways to store garbage cans is by using a cabinet. If you have a spare cabinet in your home, this is a great option for storing your cans.
Another option is to use a closet. If you don’t have any extra cabinets or closets, you can still store your garbage cans by using some creative storage ideas. For example, you can stack them up next to each other or put them in a corner.
If you are looking for some tips on how to make the most of the space that you have, here are a few suggestions:
Try not to overcrowd your storage area. This will make it difficult to access your garbage cans when needed.
Leave enough room between each garbage can to allow air to circulate. This will help keep them from smelling bad.
Make sure that the storage area is accessible from all sides. This will make it easy to get to your cans when needed.