For years, my kitchen had a persistent, unwelcome guest: a bulky, stainless steel trash can. It stood sentinel at the end of the counter, a necessary evil that constantly got in the way. In our galley-style kitchen, it created a traffic jam. More than once, I’ve sidestepped it only to bump into my spouse, sending a spoonful of sauce flying. It was an eyesore that disrupted the clean lines of our cabinetry, and no matter how often we cleaned it, a faint, unpleasant odor seemed to linger. We tried tucking it into a corner, but it just made the space feel cramped. The final straw was when our new puppy discovered he could nudge the lid open with his nose. The decision was made: the freestanding can had to go. We needed a solution that was integrated, invisible, and efficient, which led us on the hunt for the perfect under-counter system.
- Rev-A-Shelf Pullout Waste Container: Keep your kitchen waste and recycling container hidden but easily accessible with this double...
- Trash Can Specifications: Dimensions (W x D x H): 14.21"W x 22"D x 19.25"H; Designed for base cabinets with a cabinet opening width of...
What to Consider Before Buying an In-Cabinet Trash System
An in-cabinet trash can system is more than just a place to toss refuse; it’s a key solution for reclaiming valuable floor space, minimizing odors, and creating a seamless, clutter-free kitchen aesthetic. By moving your waste management behind a cabinet door, you instantly elevate the look and functionality of your space. It keeps trash and recycling neatly sorted and out of sight, preventing pets and toddlers from getting into mischief while containing smells far more effectively than most freestanding models. It’s a permanent upgrade that adds both convenience and value to your home.
The ideal customer for this type of product is a homeowner, renovator, or DIY enthusiast looking to optimize their kitchen layout. It’s for anyone frustrated with a freestanding can taking up precious real estate, especially in smaller kitchens, or for those designing a new kitchen who want a high-end, integrated feel. However, it might not be suitable for renters who cannot make permanent modifications to cabinetry or for those with older, non-standard cabinet sizes that lack the required clearance. If you can’t install a pull-out system, high-quality alternatives like the SIMPLI-MAGIC 60L Dual Compartment Recycling Kitchen Trash Can offer similar dual-bin functionality in a sleek, freestanding design.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: This is the most critical factor. You must measure your cabinet’s interior opening—width, depth, and height—with precision. Don’t forget to account for plumbing, hinges, or any interior lips that could obstruct the unit. The manufacturer provides a Minimum Cabinet Opening (MCO), and ignoring this will lead to a frustrating installation process or a product that simply doesn’t fit.
- Capacity & Performance: Capacity, measured in quarts or gallons, determines how often you’ll need to take out the trash. A dual 35-quart system, like the one we’re reviewing, is fantastic for a family, providing ample space for both trash and recycling. The performance of the slide mechanism is equally important; look for full-extension, ball-bearing slides that ensure a smooth, stable, and effortless pull, even when the bins are full.
- Materials & Durability: The frame of a pull-out system bears the entire weight, so robust materials are non-negotiable. Heavy-gauge steel, often chrome-plated for rust resistance, is the gold standard for durability and longevity. The bins themselves should be made of thick, high-impact plastic that resists cracking and is easy to clean. A system with a limited lifetime warranty, like the Rev-A-Shelf Double Pullout 35 Qt Trash Can, is a strong indicator of the manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s durability.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: A good system should be simple to operate. The bins should lift out of the frame easily for emptying and cleaning. The sliding mechanism should be smooth and require minimal effort. Consider optional accessories like lids for enhanced odor control or a door-mount kit, which allows you to pull the entire unit out by simply opening the cabinet door, creating a truly integrated experience.
Taking the time to evaluate these points will ensure you select a system that not only fits your space but also enhances your daily kitchen routine for years to come.
While the Rev-A-Shelf Double Pullout 35 Qt Trash Can is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- AUTOMATIC & HYGIENIC – The touchless sensor lid opens and closes automatically, keeping your hands clean and ensuring a noiseless,...
- CONVENIENT SIZE: 50 liter / 13.2 gallon trash can for home or office
- WASTE BIN WITH 20 GALLON CAPACITY – This 20 gallon trash can is perfect for any household and features a classic rectangular shape in...
First Impressions: Unboxing the Rev-A-Shelf Double Pullout 35 Qt Trash Can
Upon unboxing the Rev-A-Shelf Double Pullout 35 Qt Trash Can, the first thing we noticed was the reassuring heft of the components. The chrome-plated, heavy-gauge wire frame felt substantial and built to last—a far cry from the flimsy plastic systems we’d seen in big-box stores. The full-extension, ball-bearing slides were pre-attached to the base, promising a smooth glide right out of the box. The two 35-quart black containers are made from a thick, durable polymer that feels resilient enough to handle years of use without cracking. Also included is a rear wire basket, a thoughtful touch for storing extra trash bags. While some users have noted their package arrived without instructions, ours were included, though we also found a digital copy online for easy reference. The parts weren’t individually labeled, but the intuitive design made assembly straightforward enough for us to figure out quickly. Overall, the initial impression was one of high quality and thoughtful engineering, a system designed for longevity.
What We Like
- Instantly frees up valuable kitchen floor space
- Exceptionally smooth and sturdy full-extension ball-bearing slides
- Large dual 35-quart bins are perfect for separating trash and recycling
- Heavy-gauge steel frame provides outstanding durability
- Surprisingly simple and fast installation with just four screws
What We Didn’t Like
- Instructions can occasionally be missing or slightly unclear
- Does not include lids or a door-mount kit (sold separately)
Performance Deep Dive: Putting the Rev-A-Shelf System to the Test
A product can look great out of the box, but its true value is revealed in daily use. We integrated the Rev-A-Shelf Double Pullout 35 Qt Trash Can into our kitchen for several weeks, evaluating everything from the installation process to its performance under the duress of a busy family household. We wanted to know: does it just hide the trash, or does it genuinely improve the kitchen experience? The answer was a resounding yes, but the journey revealed a few important nuances.
Installation: A 15-Minute Project (If You Measure Twice)
Rev-A-Shelf claims a 15-minute installation, and we found this to be remarkably accurate. The core of the installation involves securing the slide base to the floor of your cabinet with just four screws. This is where meticulous prep work pays dividends. Before grabbing our drill, we triple-checked our cabinet’s measurements against the product’s required Minimum Cabinet Opening (14.5″W x 22″D x 19.5″H). This step is non-negotiable. We confirmed several user reports of frustration stemming from incorrect product dimensions listed on some online retail pages, but the official specifications are correct, and our unit fit perfectly. Heeding the advice of other experienced users, we ignored the instruction to attach the wire bin holders first. Instead, we secured the base to the cabinet floor, which made the entire process much easier to manage. We simply centered the unit, pre-drilled the four pilot holes, and drove in the screws. From there, the wire cage that holds the bins simply hooks into place. The most “difficult” part, as one user aptly noted, was maneuvering the metal bars that secure the bins, but even this took less than a minute. For anyone with basic DIY skills and a power drill, the installation is a breeze. It’s a project that delivers a massive quality-of-life improvement for a very small investment of time, a sentiment echoed by users who said it was “incredibly easy to install” and “one of the easiest items I’ve ever had to put together.” The resulting setup feels rock-solid, with no wobble or instability, giving you immediate confidence in its quality. You can check the exact installation requirements and dimensions to ensure it’s a perfect fit for your own cabinets.
Day-to-Day Operation: The Beauty of a Smooth Glide
The true magic of the Rev-A-Shelf Double Pullout 35 Qt Trash Can is in its daily operation. The full-extension, ball-bearing slides are, in a word, sublime. Even with both 35-quart bins filled to the brim, the unit glides out of the cabinet with a silent, buttery smoothness. There is no rattling, sticking, or straining. The full-extension design is a critical feature, allowing the rear bin to slide completely clear of the cabinet opening. This gives you unfettered access for tossing trash or recycling without having to awkwardly angle your hand. It’s a significant upgrade over cheaper models that only extend three-quarters of the way. We found ourselves able to open it with a nudge from our foot when our hands were full, a small convenience that adds up over time. One user compared it favorably to units from home improvement stores, stating this one was “much nicer” with a “very smooth pullout.” The dual-bin system transformed our recycling habits. No more piling up bottles on the counter; everything goes directly into its designated bin, keeping the kitchen perpetually tidier. The bins themselves lift out effortlessly for taking to the curb and are just as easy to wipe clean. While this model doesn’t come with soft-close slides, we noted one resourceful user successfully swapped the included 22″ slides for 24″ soft-close slides to gain extra clearance for lids under a low drawer pull, showcasing the system’s adaptability for those who want to customize. For most users, however, the included hardware offers a premium experience that completely transforms the feel of their kitchen.
Capacity and Construction: Maximizing Space and Durability
The capacity of this system is deceptive. At first glance, the two 35-quart (8.75-gallon) bins might seem like a step down from a single, large freestanding can. In practice, we found the opposite to be true. The design utilizes the full depth and height of a standard base cabinet, maximizing the available volume. As one user happily reported, “it maximizes utilization of the space compared to the previous one I had… These take up the entire space of a regular cabinet without being too big.” For our family of three, the dual bins comfortably held several days’ worth of trash and recycling, meaning no change in how often we had to take it out. They are designed to fit standard 13-gallon kitchen trash bags perfectly, with no excessive slack or stretching. The real star, however, is the build quality. The chrome-plated steel frame is the backbone of the system, and its heavy-gauge construction is immediately apparent. It feels robust and engineered to handle the constant stress of being pulled in and out multiple times a day for years. This is a “buy it for life” type of upgrade, backed by the manufacturer’s limited lifetime warranty. Having the waste containers hidden away also provided an unexpected benefit mentioned by many users: a significant reduction in kitchen odors. Tucked behind a closed cabinet door, smells are naturally contained, making the entire kitchen a more pleasant environment. The solid construction and generous capacity make the Rev-A-Shelf Double Pullout 35 Qt Trash Can an investment in both durability and daily convenience.
What Other Users Are Saying
Across the board, the feedback for the Rev-A-Shelf Double Pullout 35 Qt Trash Can is overwhelmingly positive. Many users call it a “game changer” that “totally transformed my kitchen.” The most frequently praised aspects are the ease of installation and the high-quality, smooth-gliding mechanism. One customer was thrilled, stating, “So nice!! Works easily and installs in minutes. Would have cost hundreds for built in cabinet from kitchen remodeler.” Another echoed this, saying, “Amazing product, took 10 minutes to install and fit perfectly.”
However, the feedback isn’t without its critiques, which provide valuable context. The most common issue cited is with the instructions and initial setup. One user shared their frustration: “My package arrived with no instructions, which was pretty intimidating… The parts weren’t labeled at all.” Another pointed out a critical discrepancy in measurements on a retail listing, warning others to “be sure to carefully measure your cabinets.” These comments highlight the absolute necessity of relying on the official manufacturer specifications and being prepared for a bit of common-sense assembly rather than a paint-by-numbers process. A few users also wished for included lids or a soft-close feature, though these are available as separate upgrades.
How Does the Rev-A-Shelf Double Pullout 35 Qt Trash Can Compare to Alternatives?
While the Rev-A-Shelf system is a top-tier solution for integrated waste management, different needs call for different products. Here’s how it stacks up against three distinct alternatives.
1. Glad Roomate Under Counter Waste Bin 7 Liter
- VERSATILE UNDER COUNTER TRASH CAN – This space-saving waste bin can be used as a regular, standalone trash can, but it can also be...
- DUAL LID OPENING FOR EASIER CLEAN UP – Switch between flip back and slide front opening modes with our dual lid opening...
The Glad Roomate is not a direct competitor but rather a micro-solution for very specific needs. With a tiny 7-liter (less than 2-gallon) capacity, it’s designed for small-scale waste like bathroom vanity trash, office paper, or under-sink food scraps. Its main advantages are its compact size and flexible mounting options (hanging or adhesive). If you only need a very small, discreet bin for a bathroom or office, or perhaps a tiny compost pail to supplement a larger system, the Glad Roomate is an excellent, low-cost choice. However, it completely lacks the capacity and dual-bin functionality for primary kitchen trash and recycling that the Rev-A-Shelf Double Pullout 35 Qt Trash Can provides.
2. Tiyafuro 2.4 Gallon Countertop Compost Bin
- Lid Can Effective Prevent Odor From Escaping:" Indoor hanging compost bin with lid designed specifically as a hidden non smelling,...
- Wall Mount Trash Can:" Trash bin is easy to install hanging, mount accessory ( 1 hook, 2 adhesive hooks and 20 pcs trash bag )...
Similar to the Glad bin, the Tiyafuro compost bin serves a specialized purpose. It’s designed specifically for collecting kitchen scraps for composting. Its 2.4-gallon capacity is ideal for this task, and its key feature is the ability to hang over a cabinet door or drawer, keeping it handy during food prep. This is a complementary product, not a replacement. Many households could benefit from using the Tiyafuro for compostables while using the larger, dual-bin Rev-A-Shelf Double Pullout 35 Qt Trash Can for general trash and recyclables. If composting is your priority and you need a dedicated, accessible container, the Tiyafuro is an excellent choice.
3. SIMPLI-MAGIC 60L Dual Compartment Recycling Kitchen Trash Can
- HIGH CAPACITY WASTE AND RECYCLING SOLUTION: Color coded liners in Green (30L) and Black (30L) allow for easy sortation of waste and...
- HANDS-FREE USE: The stainless-steel foot pedal stands up to daily use and removes the need to touch the lid during waste or recycling...
The SIMPLI-MAGIC 60L can is the most direct alternative for those seeking dual-compartment functionality without a permanent installation. It’s a freestanding unit with a large 16-gallon total capacity, a hands-free step pedal, and a soft-close lid. This is the ideal solution for renters, people who aren’t comfortable with DIY projects, or those who simply prefer a freestanding can. While it offers excellent capacity and convenience, it still occupies floor space and remains a visible appliance in your kitchen, which is the primary problem the Rev-A-Shelf pull-out system is designed to solve. The choice between these two comes down to a preference for an integrated, hidden solution versus a high-quality, movable, freestanding one.
Our Final Verdict: Is the Rev-A-Shelf Double Pullout 35 Qt Trash Can Worth It?
After extensive testing and analysis, our conclusion is clear: the Rev-A-Shelf Double Pullout 35 Qt Trash Can is a superb investment and one of the best upgrades you can make to your kitchen. It masterfully solves the problem of the cumbersome, unsightly freestanding trash can by tucking waste management neatly out of sight. Its construction is top-notch, with a robust steel frame and a silky-smooth glide mechanism that feels premium with every use. The dual 35-quart bins offer generous capacity for both trash and recycling, helping to keep your entire kitchen cleaner and more organized.
While the initial setup requires careful measurement and the instructions could be clearer, the installation itself is remarkably simple for anyone with a drill. It’s a small price to pay for the immense daily convenience and reclaimed floor space. We wholeheartedly recommend this system to any homeowner looking for a durable, high-performance, and elegant solution to kitchen waste. If you’re ready to declutter your kitchen and streamline your daily routine, this is the tool to do it. You can see the latest price and order yours here to completely transform your kitchen space.
Last update on 2025-10-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API