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Recycling Bins

Expert Picks for January 2026

Best Recycling Bins

Make sorting second nature. We compared recycling bins from basic dual compartments to smart sorting systemsβ€”finding what encourages recycling and what just complicates trash day.

Last updated: January 28, 2026
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Best Overall Our top recommendation
Best Overall
Dual Compartment Recycler

Simplehuman

Dual Compartment Recycler

4.6 (12,345 reviews)

Trash and recycling in one elegant unit. Each side has its own sensor.

Total Capacity

58L

Compartments

2

Opening

Dual sensors

Material

Stainless steel

Pros

  • βœ“ Dual compartments in one unit
  • βœ“ Sensor opening
  • βœ“ Quality construction

Cons

  • βœ— Very expensive
  • βœ— Takes up space
  • βœ— Custom liners cost

Head-to-Head Comparison

ProductRatingPrice Action
Dual Compartment Recycler
Dual Compartment Recycler Best
Simplehuman
4.6
$230 View
Stack Recycling Bins (3-Pack)
Stack Recycling Bins (3-Pack) Value
Rubbermaid
4.5
$50 View
Totem 60 Waste & Recycling Unit
Totem 60 Waste & Recycling Unit
Joseph Joseph
4.4
$250 View
Recycle Bin Triple Sorter
Recycle Bin Triple Sorter
Sterilite
4.3
$35 View

* Prices may vary. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

All Recommended Products

Best Overall
Dual Compartment Recycler

Simplehuman

Dual Compartment Recycler

4.6 (12,345 reviews)

Trash and recycling in one elegant unit. Each side has its own sensor.

Total Capacity

58L

Compartments

2

Opening

Dual sensors

Material

Stainless steel

Pros

  • βœ“ Dual compartments in one unit
  • βœ“ Sensor opening
  • βœ“ Quality construction

Cons

  • βœ— Very expensive
  • βœ— Takes up space
  • βœ— Custom liners cost
Best Value
Stack Recycling Bins (3-Pack)

Rubbermaid

Stack Recycling Bins (3-Pack)

4.5 (34,567 reviews)

The space-saving solution. Three bins stack vertically.

Count

3 bins

Configuration

Stackable

Capacity

7 gallon each

Sorting

Color-coded

Pros

  • βœ“ Vertical stacking saves space
  • βœ“ Three sorting bins
  • βœ“ Affordable

Cons

  • βœ— Basic design
  • βœ— Open tops
  • βœ— Takes vertical space
Premium Pick
Totem 60 Waste & Recycling Unit

Joseph Joseph

Totem 60 Waste & Recycling Unit

4.4 (8,901 reviews)

Engineering for the waste-conscious. Recycling, trash, and food waste in one unit.

Total Capacity

60L

Compartments

3+

Features

Odor filter, caddy

Design

Vertical integration

Pros

  • βœ“ Multi-compartment design
  • βœ“ Odor filter included
  • βœ“ Compact footprint

Cons

  • βœ— Very expensive
  • βœ— Complex system
  • βœ— Proprietary bags
Budget Pick
Recycle Bin Triple Sorter

Sterilite

Recycle Bin Triple Sorter

4.3 (23,456 reviews)

Budget multi-stream sorting. Clear sides show what goes where.

Compartments

3

Material

Clear plastic

Capacity

6 gallon each

Style

Stackable

Pros

  • βœ“ Three compartments
  • βœ“ Very affordable
  • βœ“ Clear for visibility

Cons

  • βœ— Basic construction
  • βœ— No lids included
  • βœ— Shows contents

Buying Guide: How to Choose Recycling Bins

Recycling Bins: Make Sorting Second Nature

Inconvenient recycling = doesn't happen. Good bins make sorting effortless.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recycling Bins

Do I really need separate compartments?

Depends on your area. Single-stream: one bin works. Separated: multiple compartments help.

How do I get my family to actually recycle?

Make it easier than trashing. Put recycling next to trash, same height, same effort.

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