What is a trash compactor? A simple guide for homeowners

A trash compactor is a kitchen appliance that compresses household waste, potentially reducing its volume by up to 80% so you can fit more trash into fewer bags and take it out less often. Some models also include odor management features, such as a fan and carbon filter, to help minimize smells and keep your kitchen fresher.

In this guide, discover exactly what a trash compactor is, how it works and the key benefits of having one in your kitchen, so you can decide if it’s a practical addition to your home.

How does a trash compactor work?

A trash compactor works by using a motorized ram to press down on trash inside a drawer, compressing it into a smaller, denser load. You add waste, close the drawer and start a cycle that reduces volume as the compactor compresses. Read on to learn more about how to operate this kitchen appliance.

How to use a trash compactor

Using a trash compactor is not difficult. However, various models may vary so be sure to check your specific user instructions for more details about your particular model. Before you start, place a compactor bag into the drawer and secure it in place, following your model’s instructions. When you’re ready, close the drawer and run a compacting cycle.

For a more detailed breakdown of best practices and tips, follow this list of steps.

1. Load the drawer and bag

Before starting a cycle, make sure the compactor drawer is clean and securely in place. This helps the bag fit properly and helps prevent debris from interfering with the compaction process.

To install a bag with select KitchenAid^® trash compactors, place the folded compactor bag into the drawer and open it fully. Pull the top edges over the rim of the drawer, then secure it by stretching the pre-punched holes over the bag retainer buttons. The holes are designed to expand without tearing. Finally, press the bag firmly against the bottom, sides and corners of the drawer so it sits smoothly in place. Once installed, you can begin adding trash directly into the lined drawer.

2. Run a compression cycle

Once the drawer is loaded and closed, you can start a compression cycle using the control panel. Inside the unit, a motor drives a component called a compacting ram, which moves downward to press the trash into a denser mass.

As the ram pushes down, items like food waste, packaging and cans are compressed together. You may even hear sounds like glass breaking as the load compacts. On select KitchenAid^® models, the ram does not press all the way to the bottom, and you typically won’t see much compression until the drawer is at least half full.

3. Remove compacted trash

Remove the bag when the compacted trash reaches the top of the drawer. For select KitchenAid^® models, open the drawer, lift the bag off the retainer buttons and secure it before taking it out.

Because trash is compressed into a smaller volume, you’ll change bags less often—meaning fewer trips to your outdoor bin.

What can you put in a trash compactor?

Trash compactors are designed for everyday household waste, but anything toxic or flammable should be kept out to protect both the appliance and your home.

 Items that can go into a trash compactor

• General household trash

• Bottles and cans (placed in the center of the drawer)

• Paper and packaging waste

 Items that cannot go into a trash compactor

• Toxic or flammable items such as oily rags or insect sprays

• Uncovered wet, messy trash

• Raw meat, fish, grapefruit rinds, disposable diapers, personal hygiene items or other items that may develop offensive odors

Is a trash compactor right for your kitchen?

A trash compactor may be right for your kitchen if you want to reduce trash volume. It uses a motorized ram to compress waste, shrinking it to about one-quarter of its original size, depending on the model.

Households that may benefit most

Trash compactors can be especially useful in kitchens where waste accumulates quickly, such as households that cook frequently or generate higher volumes of everyday trash. By using a motorized ram to compress waste into a smaller load, trash compactors help reduce the amount of space trash takes up, which can make it easier to manage between bag changes. This can also be helpful in homes where taking trash outside is inconvenient, since compacted waste means fewer full loads to remove.

Kitchen layout considerations

When planning for a trash compactor, it’s important to think about how it will fit into your kitchen layout and daily routine. The right kitchen arrangement can help ensure pathways are clear and your trash compactor is located where you need it most so that cleanup is a breeze. Keep in mind, many models are designed for built-in installation, so having available undercounter space is key.

Trash compactor FAQs

Trash compactors can help keep your kitchen tidy and your trips to the outdoor bin less frequent. Before choosing or using a trash compactor, read the answers to some commonly asked questions about their ability to help reduce kitchen odors and more.

Do trash compactors help reduce kitchen odor?

Yes, some trash compactors include odor control features. Select models from KitchenAid^® brand come with a charcoal air filter and a fan that traps and minimizes unpleasant odors. Follow your owner’s manual for how often to replace the air filter. Note that odor control largely depends on what goes inside your trash compactor drawer and how often it is emptied and cleaned.

Does a trash compactor crush trash into a solid block?

Compacted trash is reduced in volume. The ram presses waste down so a full bag is about one-quarter of its original size, but items still shift and may even break (like glass) during the process, rather than forming a single block.

Do you need special bags for a trash compactor?

Yes, trash compactors require special bags designed to handle high pressure. Regular trash bags can tear during compaction. Use bags made for your model to ensure proper fit and optimal operation.

Are trash compactors the same as dumpsters with compactors?

A dumpster is simply a container that holds waste, while a compactor actively compresses it to reduce volume. Commercial “dumpster compactors” are large systems used by businesses, whereas home trash compactors are smaller appliances designed for everyday household use.

What is the difference between a trash compactor and a garbage disposal?

A garbage disposal is built into your sink and is designed specifically for food waste, breaking it down so it can flow through your plumbing. A trash compactor, on the other hand, is typically installed under the counter and handles solid household trash like packaging, cans and non-food waste by compressing it into a smaller volume.

Shop KitchenAid^® trash compactors

Trash compactors can help reduce your volume of kitchen waste and make trips to the outside bin less frequent. Select models from KitchenAid brand have a Built-In Odor Management System, which traps and minimizes unpleasant odors by combining a charcoal filter with a fan. Others offer Solid Pack^™ Control with 5:1 Compaction Ratio that reduces trash volume by up to 80%, allowing it to fit five trash compactor bags worth of waste into one. With a curated palette of exterior finishes and mixed metal hardware, select KitchenAid^® models are even designed to be personalized. Pick from lush Juniper, warm Black Ore and classic Stainless Steel finishes, all with matching handles. Personalize your hardware with optional handle accessory kits in Brass, Bronze, Black Ore and Stainless Steel.