A freestanding bin in the middle of the kitchen is one of those things you stop noticing until you trip over it. A pull out bin fixes that by hiding rubbish inside a cupboard and sliding forward only when you need it. The harder decision comes next: one bucket or two? Pull out kitchen bins come in single and double layouts, and the right choice depends on your cabinet size, how much waste you produce and whether you sort recycling in the kitchen. This guide compares single and double kitchen pull out bins so you can buy once and buy right.

Single vs Double Pull Out Bins at a Glance

Most kitchen pull out bins follow one of two designs. A single system holds one bucket on a sliding frame. It suits narrow cupboards, small households and anyone who already keeps recycling somewhere else. A double system puts two buckets side by side, usually one for general waste and one for recycling, which is why it’s the more common choice in family homes.

Watch out for total capacity, because it can mislead. A 30-litre double gives you two 15-litre buckets, so each waste stream fills twice as fast as one 30-litre bucket would. If your household throws out a lot of general rubbish, one large bucket may serve you better than two small ones.

How to Choose the Best Pull Out Kitchen Bins

Choosing the right pull out kitchen bins comes down to three checks.

1. Measure the cabinet properly. Record the internal width, depth and height rather than the cabinet’s nominal size. A 400 mm cabinet doesn’t give you 400 mm of clear space once the side panels are counted. Under a sink, measure around the trap and pipes as well, since plumbing is the usual reason a bin won’t extend fully. Check door and hinge clearance too.

2. Match capacity to your week. Notice how often you empty your current bin, then use this as a rough starting point:

• One person: a compact single bin.

• Couple: a single, or a small double if you recycle in the kitchen.

• Family: a double with larger buckets, around 25 litres or more each.

If your council collects food scraps separately, a three-bucket system may be worth considering.

3. Look closely at runners and buckets. Soft-close runners are quieter and gentler on the cabinet. Bins that attach to the drawer front open with one hand, which helps when you’re halfway through a recipe. Removable buckets with smooth inner surfaces are far easier to wash, and it’s worth confirming that replacement buckets are sold for the model you choose.

Why Choose The Kitchen Organiser?

The Kitchen Organiser specialises in storage and waste systems for Australian kitchens, and kitchen pull out bins sit at the heart of the range.

• Single and double systems from trusted brands including Wesco, Kia Ora and Ninka.

• Sizes for every cabinet, from compact under-sink units to 60-litre-plus family doubles.

• Replacement buckets and lids for Wesco, Ninka, Hailo and Häfele systems, so a worn bucket doesn’t mean replacing the whole frame.

• Free shipping Australia-wide on orders over $200.

About Us

The Kitchen Organiser is an online store serving Australian homes, helping households get more out of every cupboard. Our range covers kitchen bins, drawer and pantry organisers, corner fittings and laundry storage, each chosen for quality and a proper fit. Whether you’re renovating or simply replacing a tired old bin, we’re here to help you find a system that suits your kitchen and your routine.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pull Out Bins

Are pull-out bins worth it?

Yes, for most kitchens a pull-out bin is worth it. It clears rubbish off the floor, hides it behind a cupboard door and puts waste right where you prepare food. A double model also makes recycling easier. The value drops only if the bin doesn’t suit your cabinet or holds too little for your household.

Are pull-out bins sanitary?

Pull-out bins are sanitary when they’re emptied and cleaned regularly. Because they sit inside a closed cupboard, odours can build up, so choose removable buckets you can wash, use liners, wipe spills off the runners and let buckets dry before refitting them. A well-kept pull-out bin is just as hygienic as a lidded freestanding bin.

What are the best pull-out kitchen bins?

The best pull-out kitchen bins are double systems with soft-close runners, removable buckets and enough capacity for your household. Well-regarded options in Australia include the Kia Ora OPTIO range, from a 19-litre single up to 60-litre doubles, and Wesco double pull out bins from 30 to 64 litres. Always check the internal cabinet size listed for each model.

What is the best pull-out waste bin?

The best pull-out waste bin is the one that fits your cabinet and matches how you sort rubbish. Choose a single bin for narrow cupboards or small households, and a double bin if you separate general waste and recycling. Look for full-extension runners, sturdy mounting hardware and buckets large enough to last between bin nights.

Final Thoughts

Single and double systems both keep rubbish out of sight. The real difference is how much sorting you do and how much room you have. Measure the cabinet, check the size of each bucket and think about your weekly routine. Get those three things right and a pull out bin will quietly make your kitchen easier to use every day.