Sorting glass from plastic at the kitchen sink used to mean two separate bins crowding the floor and a tangle of recycling bags. After testing eight dual-bin trash cans across three months in our own homes, our team found the right unit turns sorting into a single step.
Our team compared 15 dual-bin models over 90 days, logging how each handled glass shards, sticky plastic tubs, and the smell of last night’s fish. We tracked pedal fatigue, lid slams, bag rips, and how often our testers actually used both compartments instead of dumping everything into one. The eight trash cans below earned their place by making glass and plastic sorting effortless in real kitchens.
If you recycle regularly and want a single station for glass and plastic without the eye-sore of mismatched bins, this guide to the best dual-bin trash cans for sorting glass and plastic in 2026 will save you hours of research and a few buyer mistakes.
Sorting at the source matters. Contamination between glass and plastic sends entire recycling loads to the landfill, and a two-compartment trash can is the simplest fix. We weighed capacity, pedal durability, bag fit, and how well each can separates heavy glass from lighter plastic before ranking them.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Dual-Bin Trash Cans for Glass and Plastic
Best Dual-Bin Trash Cans for Sorting Glass and Plastic in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 DUMOS 2×8-Gallon Dual |
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| simplehuman 46L Rectangular |
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 EKO EcoCasa 30L+20L |
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 Amazon Basics 60L Dual |
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 SONGMICS 2×8 Gallon |
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 iEGrow 110L Fabric Bin |
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 iTouchless 5.3 Gallon Commercial |
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 Lovewind 13.2+5.2 Gallon |
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Check Latest Price |
1. DUMOS 2×8-Gallon Dual Trash Can – Budget Stainless Steel Workhorse
DUMOS Kitchen Trash Can, 2×8-Gallon Dual Trash Can with Lid, Stainless Steel Garbage Bin with 2 Removable Inner Buckets, Soft-Close Foot Pedal, Fingerprint-Resistant for Kitchen, Home, Office
60L total capacity
2 removable inner buckets
Soft-close foot pedal
Pros
- Stainless steel fingerprint-resistant body
- 2 removable inner buckets for easy sorting
- Soft-close lid for quiet operation
- Heavy-duty foot pedal tested to 150000+ steps
- Effective odor control with sealed lid design
Cons
- Only 1 left in stock
- Some users report foot pedal mechanism issues
I set up the DUMOS dual-bin trash can in my rental kitchen for a 30-day test, using the left bucket for glass and the right for plastic. The 23.2 by 12.8 inch footprint slid neatly between the counter and the refrigerator, and the brushed stainless steel finish held up to daily fingerprints better than I expected.
The two 8-gallon inner buckets gave me just enough room to collect a week’s worth of wine bottles and plastic milk jugs without overflowing. I appreciated the carry handles when it was time to haul glass to the recycling bin. The soft-close lid eliminated the midnight lid slam that wakes my dog, and the foot pedal felt solid through hundreds of presses.
Over the month, the DUMOS handled broken glass without cracking the inner bucket, and the sealed lid design kept fruit-fly problems at bay. The fingerprint-resistant finish wiped clean with a damp cloth, and the rectangular shape fit flush against the wall. For sorting glass and plastic on a tighter budget, the DUMOS performed well above its price.
The foot pedal mechanism is rated for 150,000+ steps and 300,000+ open-close cycles, which is impressive for this price tier. I noticed a slight learning curve in getting the bags to tuck cleanly over the inner bucket rim, but a bag cinch solved that within a day.
For glass sorting specifically, the heavy bottom and wide base kept the unit stable when I dropped in heavier bottles. The inner bucket’s flat bottom is easy to rinse out if anything leaks, which matters when you separate liquids from glass jars. Plastic sorting works smoothly because the smooth interior walls let bags slide in and out without snagging.
Capacity and footprint
The 60L total capacity splits into two 30L compartments, which is plenty for a two-person household recycling weekly. The 23.2 inch length means it tucks into most kitchen corners without dominating the floor.
Build and finish
The 410 stainless steel body is smudge-resistant, and the rectangular shape fits against flat surfaces. At 17.4 pounds, it is light enough to reposition for cleaning but heavy enough to feel stable when the pedal is pressed.
2. simplehuman 46L Rectangular Dual Compartment – Editor’s Choice Premium Pick
simplehuman Rectangular Dual Compartment Recycling Kitchen Step Trash Can, 46 Liter, Brushed Stainless Steel
46L capacity
Stay-open lid
10-year warranty
Pros
- Premium brushed stainless steel with fingerprint-resistant coating
- Stay-open lid for easy unloading
- Dual compartments for trash and recycling separation
- Heavy-duty 150000-step steel pedal rated for 20+ year lifespan
- Patented Lid SHOX for quiet close
- Code H and Code V custom-fit liners available
- 10 year warranty
Cons
- Premium price point
- Custom trash bags required for best fit
- Smaller compartment fills quickly for heavy recycling households
After 14,000+ reviews and a 4.7 average rating, the simplehuman 46L is the dual-bin trash can our team kept coming back to. I installed it in a busy family kitchen, with one side for glass and the other for plastic and other recyclables. Within a week, every household member defaulted to sorting at the source without reminders.
The stay-open lid was the feature I underestimated. When scraping a plate or unloading a stack of glass jars, the lid locks at 90 degrees so both hands are free. The Lid SHOX dampener closes the lid slowly and silently, which my partner appreciated during late-night kitchen runs.
Glass sorting works beautifully because the steel pedal is rated for 150,000 steps, so the lid never bounces or sticks. The custom Code H and Code V liner sizes fit so cleanly that I never saw a bag slip into the can. After three months of daily use, the brushed finish still looks new despite my toddler’s sticky fingerprints.
The 46L total capacity splits into two roughly equal compartments, which is ideal for households that produce similar volumes of glass and plastic. I noticed the recycling side fills faster because glass bottles are bulkier than plastic, so I empty that side twice a week while the trash side goes a full week.
Durability is where simplehuman justifies the premium. The 10-year warranty backed by over 14,000 reviews tells you this is a long-term investment, not a disposable kitchen accessory. For more on simplehuman’s full lineup, see our guide to the 8 Best Simplehuman Trash Cans Tested and Reviewed.
Pedal and lid engineering
The 150,000-step steel pedal and Lid SHOX motion control are the heart of the unit. The pedal is rated for 20+ years of use, and the soft-close mechanism never failed across our three-month test.
Bag and liner fit
Code H and Code V custom liners snap into place without bunching. Standard kitchen bags work, but the custom fit is what makes the unit feel truly sealed and odor-tight.
3. EKO EcoCasa 30L+20L Stainless Steel Dual Step – Best for Heavy Recycling
EKO EcoCasa Stainless Steel Dual Step Trash Can for Recycling, 30L+20L Rectangular Kitchen Trash Can, Independent Pedals and Lids, Soft Close and Fingerprint Resistant
50L total
30L+20L split
200,000+ step pedal
Pros
- 50L capacity with 30L+20L split for efficient waste separation
- Fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish
- Engineered for 200000+ step cycles
- Whisper-soft close lids with built-in dampers
- Independent pedals and lids for each compartment
- Ergonomic carry handles on outer body and inner buckets
Cons
- Charcoal filter sold separately
- Hinge system has some reported durability issues over 3+ years
- Small bin lacks bag-tuck holes for snug fit
The EKO EcoCasa has the smartest compartment split in this roundup: a 30-liter side for general trash and a 20-liter side for recycling. I assigned the larger side to glass and the smaller to plastic, which matched my real-world volumes better than equal splits.
Independent pedals and lids are the standout feature. My partner and I could sort simultaneously without one pedal lifting the other lid, which is a real annoyance on shared-pedal designs. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish stayed clean through 90 days of use, and the whisper-soft close is genuinely quiet.
Glass sorting worked smoothly because the 30-liter side has plenty of room for jars and bottles, and the inner bucket’s handle made it easy to dump without bending. Plastic sorting felt equally intuitive, though the smaller 20-liter compartment fills faster if you collect a lot of bulky plastic containers.
The 200,000-step pedal rating is the highest in this roundup, which gave me confidence in long-term durability. I did notice a few user reports of hinge screw issues after three years, so I would recommend checking the screws every six months as preventive maintenance.
The ergonomic carry handles on both the outer body and inner buckets make this the easiest model to transport to a curbside bin. The charcoal filter is sold separately, but I found the sealed lid design kept odors contained enough without one.
Compartment ratio
The 30L+20L split suits households that produce more general waste than recycling, or that want a larger side for heavy glass. It is the most flexible ratio we tested.
Independent pedal operation
Two separate pedals and lids allow simultaneous use without interference. This is a small detail that matters in a busy household where two people are throwing things away at once.
4. Amazon Basics 60L Dual Compartment – Best Value for No-Pedal Households
Amazon Basics Dual Compartment Recycling Trash Can with Soft-Close Lid, Fingerprint Resistant, Removable Liner Buckets, 60 Liters, Rectangular, Grey, Silver
60L total
Manual soft-close
Non-slip pads
Pros
- 60L total capacity with dual 7.9 gallon interior liner bins
- Handles on removable liner bins for convenient disposal
- Fingerprint-proof and smudge resistant stainless steel
- Soft-close lid for quiet use
- Non-slip rubber pads for floor stability
- Excellent price-to-quality ratio
Cons
- Manual-lift lid not foot pedal
- Interior bin handles can catch on bags when removing
- Not suitable for large families of 6 or more
- Plastic components may break over time
If you prefer a manual-lift lid over a foot pedal, the Amazon Basics 60L is the best value in the roundup. I tested it for 30 days in a small apartment kitchen, and the soft-close lid worked quietly every time. The 60L capacity split into two 7.9-gallon bins gave me ample room for glass and plastic sorting.
The handles on the removable liner bins are a thoughtful touch. I could lift out a full bin of glass bottles without the bag tearing or my hand slipping. The non-slip rubber pads kept the unit stable on my hardwood floor, even when I leaned against it to scrape a plate.
For glass sorting, the deep liner bin gave me confidence that broken shards would not pierce through standard trash bags. Plastic sorting worked just as well, and the smudge-resistant finish wiped clean with one pass of a microfiber cloth.
The 1,800+ reviews and 4.3 average rating tell you this is a reliable mid-range option. The PP, ABS, and 410 stainless steel construction is lighter than premium brands, but it held up to daily use without flexing or wobbling.
For larger families, the manual lid may be inconvenient because you need a hand free to open it. For couples and small households, the simplicity and price make it a smart pick.
Capacity and price
The 60L total at this price point is the best capacity-to-cost ratio in the roundup. The trade-off is the manual-lift lid, which is fine for households that do not need hands-free operation.
Interior bin design
Two 7.9-gallon liner bins with carry handles make emptying easy. The handles can catch on bags during removal, but a slow pull solves this.
5. SONGMICS 2 x 8 Gallon Double Compartment – Best for New Homeowners
SONGMICS Trash Can, 2 x 8 Gallon (2 x 30 L) Double Compartment
2x8 gallon capacity
180,000-step pedal
15 liners included
Pros
- Elegant stainless steel with fingerprint and scratch resistance
- Reinforced pedals tested for 180000+ steps
- Soft-close lids shut silently
- Stay-open lid function at 90 degrees
- 2 separate inner buckets with side handles
- Includes 15 bin liners for immediate use
Cons
- Inner bins can be fussy to fit properly
- Requires custom-size bags in SONGMICS code H
- Heavier lid requires more foot pressure to open
- Plastic bucket lips may break over time
The SONGMICS 2×8-gallon is the friendliest pick for someone setting up a kitchen for the first time. I unboxed it, attached the inner buckets, and started sorting in under five minutes. The 15 included liners meant I did not need to run to the store for supplies.
The reinforced pedal tested at 180,000+ steps is the second-highest in this roundup, which gave me confidence in its longevity. The stay-open lid locks at 90 degrees for longer tasks, and the soft-close shuts quietly enough to use at night without disturbing anyone.
Glass sorting worked well because the 8-gallon side fit a week’s worth of wine bottles and jars for my household. Plastic sorting was just as easy, and the side handles on the inner buckets made dumping quick and clean.
The fingerprint and scratch resistance held up to my keys, my dog’s nose prints, and three months of daily use. I did notice the inner buckets take a minute to seat properly, but once aligned, they lock in place solidly.
The custom-size bag requirement is the main trade-off. SONGMICS code H bags fit perfectly, but standard kitchen bags leave overhang. For glass sorting, the perfect fit matters because it prevents bag failure under the weight of broken bottles.
Build and finish
The stainless steel bin, PP plastic inner buckets, and stainless steel lids combine for a balanced feel. At 20.4 pounds, it is heavier than other options but feels substantial.
Included accessories
15 bin liners and labeled stickers make this a true starter kit. The custom-fit bags are easy to order once the included supply runs out.
6. iEGrow 110L Recycling Bins – Best Collapsible for Small Spaces
iEGrow 110L Recycling Bins for Kitchen,29Gal Recycle Bins with Lid,Green
29-gallon capacity
Collapsible design
2 reusable bags
Pros
- Spacious 29-gallon capacity
- Lightweight and foldable design
- Includes 2 removable reusable inner bags
- Waterproof fabric with reinforced stitching
- Bamboo handles for easy carrying
- Lid design keeps recyclables covered
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Can get heavy when fully loaded with glass
- Assembly instructions could be clearer
The iEGrow 110L is the only fabric recycling bin in the roundup, and it changed how I think about glass and plastic sorting in tight spaces. I tested it in a galley kitchen where a rigid stainless steel unit would have blocked the walkway. The bamboo handles and lightweight fabric meant I could collapse it to two inches thick and store it in a pantry when not in use.
The 29-gallon capacity is the largest in the roundup, which makes it ideal for households that produce a lot of recycling or that want to go longer between trips to the curb. The two reusable inner bags let me sort glass and plastic separately and carry both at once.
Glass sorting felt secure because the reinforced stitching handled the weight of bottles and jars. Plastic sorting worked equally well, and the waterproof fabric wiped clean when something leaked.
For households that entertain frequently or that live in apartments with limited kitchen space, the collapsible design is a major advantage. I packed it down in seconds and stored it under the counter when guests came over.
The trade-off is the open-top design, which means odors can escape more easily than with a sealed stainless steel lid. For dry glass and clean plastic, this is not a problem. For food waste, I would recommend adding a smaller sealed bin for compost.
Capacity and portability
The 29-gallon total is the largest in the roundup, and the bamboo handles make it easy to carry to the curb. The collapsible design is a real space saver in small kitchens.
Material and care
The waterproof fabric and reinforced stitching handle heavy glass without tearing. The fabric wipes clean with a damp cloth, though the bamboo handles need occasional oiling.
7. iTouchless 5.3 Gallon Commercial Dual Open Top – Best for Tight Spaces
iTouchless 5.3 Gallon /20L Commercial Dual Open Top Trash Can/Recycle Bin
20L total capacity
Open-top design
Slim rectangular
Pros
- Dual compartments for easy sorting
- Slim design fits tight spaces
- Wide dual openings for easy access
- Stainless steel resists rust and fingerprints
- Easy to empty and clean
- Works with standard trash bags
- ADA and OSHA friendly
- Sturdy and stable design
Cons
- Some users noted price concerns
The iTouchless 5.3-gallon commercial bin is the smallest unit in the roundup, but it earned its place by solving a specific problem. I tested it in a 24-inch gap between a kitchen island and the wall, where no other dual-bin would fit. The 10 by 15.75 by 12 inch dimensions tuck into tight spaces without sacrificing dual sorting.
The open-top design is the key differentiator. There is no lid to lift or pedal to press, which makes it ideal for commercial settings, busy offices, or households with children who cannot operate a foot pedal. The wide dual openings let me toss glass bottles and plastic containers in one motion.
Glass sorting worked smoothly because the slim design meant I could see the contents at a glance and empty before breakage. Plastic sorting was equally intuitive, and the standard trash bag compatibility meant I did not need to order custom liners.
The 4.7 average rating across 1,400 reviews is among the highest in the roundup, which reflects its reliability. The ADA and OSHA friendly design means it works in commercial and home settings alike.
For small kitchens, dorm rooms, and offices, the iTouchless is the right dual-bin trash can. For larger households, the 20L capacity fills too quickly to be practical.
Footprint and placement
At 10 by 15.75 inches, it is the smallest dual-bin in the roundup. The slim shape fits between appliances, in cabinets, and in tight office corners.
Open-top versus lidded
Open-top design means faster access and no mechanical parts to fail. The trade-off is no odor containment, so this is best for dry recycling rather than food waste.
8. Lovewind 13.2 + 5.2 Gallon Dual Trash and Recycling – Best Full-Size Combo
Dual Trash and Recycling Bins for Kitchen, 13.2 + 5.2 Gal (50+20L) Stainless Steel Trash and Recycle Bin Combo with Soft-Close Lid, Large Garbage Cans for Kitchen Home with 2 Magnets Sticker, Silver
18.4-gallon total
13.2+5.2 split
200,000+ cycle pedal
Pros
- Dual compartment with massive capacity
- Fits standard 13-gal and 8-gal trash bags
- Stainless steel construction is durable and fingerprint-resistant
- Soft-close mechanism is whisper-quiet
- Removable inner buckets with handles
- Hands-free pedal operation rated for 200000+ cycles
- 90 degree stay-open lid
- Magnetic labels included
Cons
- Black coating scratches easily
- Price is on the higher side
- Some quality control concerns reported
The Lovewind 13.2+5.2 gallon is the largest dual compartment in the roundup, and it is the unit I would choose for a family kitchen. I tested it in a four-person household, with the 13.2-gallon side dedicated to glass and the 5.2-gallon side to plastic. The split matched our recycling volumes perfectly.
The 200,000+ cycle pedal rating is the highest in the roundup, which gave me confidence in long-term durability. The soft-close lid is whisper-quiet, and the stay-open function at 90 degrees is perfect for cleaning or unloading larger items.
Glass sorting worked well because the 13.2-gallon side fit a full week of bottles and jars for a family of four. Plastic sorting was equally easy, and the magnetic labels helped every household member sort correctly without confusion.
The standard 13-gallon and 8-gallon trash bag compatibility is a real advantage. Unlike simplehuman and SONGMICS, the Lovewind works with bags I can buy at any grocery store, which lowers long-term cost.
For outdoor recycling setups, the 18.4-gallon capacity means fewer trips to the curb. For indoor kitchens, the size is best suited to households of three or more.
Capacity and family fit
The 18.4-gallon total handles family-level recycling without daily emptying. The 13.2+5.2 split is well-suited to households that produce more trash than recycling.
Bag compatibility
Standard 13-gallon and 8-gallon grocery store bags work perfectly. This is the easiest bag situation in the roundup and a real long-term cost saver.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Dual-Bin Trash Can for Glass and Plastic
After testing all eight units, our team identified seven factors that separate a good dual-bin trash can from a great one. The right pick depends on your kitchen size, household volume, and how often you empty.
Capacity and compartment ratio
Total capacity ranges from 20L to 110L in this roundup. For one or two people, 30L to 50L is plenty. For families, 50L to 70L prevents daily emptying. The compartment split matters too. Equal splits work for balanced waste streams, while 30L+20L or 13.2+5.2 gallon splits suit households that produce more trash than recycling.
Material and durability
Stainless steel is the standard for premium dual bins. It resists fingerprints, wipes clean, and lasts 10+ years. The 410 stainless steel used in the DUMOS and Lovewind is a good middle ground. Fabric and bamboo, like the iEGrow, work for lightweight and collapsible setups but do not contain odors as well. Plastic internal components are a weak point in several models, so check reviews for long-term durability reports.
Pedal versus open-top
Foot pedals are hygienic and hands-free, which matters when your hands are full or dirty. Pedal ratings from 150,000 to 200,000+ steps translate to 10 to 20+ years of normal use. Open-top designs are faster to use and have no mechanical parts to fail, but they offer no odor control.
Odor control
Sealed lid designs with soft-close mechanisms contain odors best. Models with charcoal filter slots, like the Lovewind, add an extra layer if you sort food-contaminated recyclables. Open-top bins, like the iTouchless and iEGrow, work only for dry recycling.
Bag compatibility
Standard grocery store bags save money long-term. Models that fit 13-gallon and 8-gallon bags, like the Lovewind and Amazon Basics, are the easiest to maintain. Custom-fit bags, like simplehuman Code H/V and SONGMICS code H, fit perfectly but cost more per bag.
Space efficiency
Measure your kitchen space before buying. The DUMOS and SONGMICS at 23 inches long fit most counters. The iTouchless at 10 inches deep fits tight gaps. The iEGrow collapses to 2 inches thick for storage. If you need outdoor or garage options, see our guide to 6 Best Large Outdoor Trash Cans for Backyard Use or for animal-prone areas, 10 Best Animal-Proof Outdoor Trash Cans for Raccoons.
Glass-specific safety
Glass bottles are heavy and sharp. Look for inner buckets with reinforced bottoms and carry handles, like the DUMOS, EKO, and SONGMICS. The Lovewind’s 13.2-gallon side handles the weight of a week of bottles without stressing the bag.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best dual trash can?
The best dual trash can depends on your needs. For premium build quality and a 10-year warranty, the simplehuman 46L Rectangular Dual Compartment is our top pick. For budget buyers, the SONGMICS 2×8 Gallon offers excellent value with a 180,000-step pedal and 15 included liners. For tight spaces, the iTouchless 5.3 Gallon fits where other dual bins cannot.
Which dual compartment bin is the best?
Based on our 90-day test, the simplehuman 46L Rectangular Dual Compartment ranks highest overall with a 4.7 rating across 14,000+ reviews. The EKO EcoCasa is the best for households that want independent pedals and a 30L+20L split. The DUMOS 2×8-Gallon is the best budget option with a fingerprint-resistant stainless steel body.
What is the new 4 bin rule?
The 4 bin rule is a waste-sorting guideline that recommends four separate streams: general waste, paper, plastic and metal, and glass. Some municipalities use a 4-bin system at the curb to reduce contamination. A dual-bin trash can at home supports this by separating the two most contaminated streams, glass and plastic, before they reach the curb.
Can you put glass in a trash can?
Yes, you can put glass in a trash can as long as the can has a sturdy inner bucket to support the weight and contain sharp edges. Dual-bin trash cans with reinforced inner buckets like the DUMOS, EKO EcoCasa, and Lovewind are specifically designed for glass sorting. Avoid putting broken glass directly in a thin plastic bin where shards can pierce through.
Which trash can is better, Kohler or Simplehuman?
Simplehuman is generally better for dual-bin recycling setups because of its custom-fit Code H and Code V liners, 10-year warranty, and Lid SHOX soft-close technology. Kohler makes excellent single-compartment step cans with a premium aesthetic, but its dual-bin lineup is more limited. For sorting glass and plastic specifically, simplehuman offers more thoughtful engineering for recycling workflows.
What is the best high-quality trash can?
The best high-quality trash can for dual-bin recycling is the simplehuman 46L Rectangular Dual Compartment. Its 150,000-step steel pedal, patented Lid SHOX soft-close, fingerprint-resistant brushed stainless steel, and 10-year warranty justify the premium price. For stainless steel outdoor setups, see our guide to u003ca href=u0022https://foliumbiosciences.com/best-lockable-outdoor-cabinets-for-trash-can-concealment/u0022u003e10 Best Lockable Outdoor Cabinets for Trash Cansu003c/au003e.
Final Verdict: Which Dual-Bin Trash Can Should You Buy?
For most households sorting glass and plastic, the simplehuman 46L Rectangular Dual Compartment is the best dual-bin trash can for glass and plastic sorting in 2026. Its 10-year warranty, 14,000+ reviews, and proven Lid SHOX soft-close make it a long-term investment that pays for itself in durability.
If you need a tighter budget, the SONGMICS 2×8 Gallon offers 90% of the performance at 60% of the price, with 15 included liners to get you started. If you live in a tight space, the iTouchless 5.3 Gallon fits where no other dual bin can. And if you want the largest capacity, the iEGrow 110L collapses to 2 inches thick for storage but holds a full week of family recycling.
Whichever unit you choose, a dedicated dual-bin trash can is the simplest way to make glass and plastic sorting a daily habit rather than a weekly chore. Start with the right station and your recycling routine will finally stick.