Best Garbage Disposal
This post may contain affiliate links which means I may receive a commission for purchases made through links.
The best garbage disposal can help keep your kitchen free from unpleasant odors by disposing of smell food items that would have otherwise ended up in your trash can. Even better, this kitchen appliance pulverizes food particles into smaller pieces to prevent them from clogging your plumbing system.
However, like with any other small appliance, all garbage disposal units are not created equal. For instance, some are designed for use in smaller, shallow kitchen sinks, while others are intended for high-capacity grinding and large sinks. In addition, some are easier to clean than others, while some units even have added safety features.
As a result, choosing the best garbage disposal for your kitchen can be a bit challenging, both for beginners and those who want to replace a disposal past its prime.
On the bright side, this guide has some of the best garbage disposal models you can find on the market at the moment. In addition, I’ve included the most important factors you should consider when choosing a new garbage disposal for your home to keep your sink tidy and plumbing clear!
10 Best Garbage Disposal Reviews
1. Insinkerator Badger 5 Garbage Disposal
To start, the Badger 5 garbage disposal is crafted from durable galvanized steel components. This gives it a sturdy construction that won’t wear down or rust quickly, extending its lifespan further.
In addition, this garbage disposal has a continuous feed design. As a result, you can keep it running while scraping those dishes after dinner, eliminating the need to keep starting or stopping your clean-up process.
Another notable feature of this garbage disposal is that it is equipped with a 0.5HP motor. While this garbage disposal is not the strongest option on our list, it generates enough power to grind and break down most food scraps. After all, 0.5 HP is the recommended garbage disposal motor rating for most households. Even better, this unit can easily fit under any kitchen sink, thanks to its compact design seeing that it’s just 11.5” tall and 6.31” wide.
When it comes to installation, this unit comes with everything you need to hardwire it to your home’s electrical system, including clear assembly instructions. Plus, the unit has a quiet lock mount, making it extremely easy to install and remove at the end of its lifespan, without complicated plumbing work. And if you encounter any problem when installing the unit, you can also contact the company’s responsive customer service!
Specifications
- Capacity: 26 ounces
- Horsepower: 0.5 HP
- Chamber material: galvanized steel
- Max Grinding speed: 1725
- Continuous feed type
- Dimensions: 6.31 X 6.31 X 11.5”
Benefits
- Budget-friendly
- Adequate horsepower
- Compatible with existing Insinkerator hardware for fast installation
- Fits under most sinks due to its compact design
- Comes with an Allen wrench and other installation tools & components
- 3-year warranty
Drawbacks
- Requires hardwiring
- Lacks noise-reducing technology
2. Waste King L-111 Garbage Disposal
The only issue with this garbage disposal is that it’s not the strongest or biggest option on the market as it only has a motor rating of 0.3 HP. Nonetheless, it has a 1900RPM continuous grind speed and adequate power to handle most food scraps like soft foods, meat trimmings, and fruit peels without a fuss. In addition, it has stainless steel swivel impellers to help minimize jamming and a removable splash guard to ensure a simple clean-up process.
Another interesting thing about Waste-King’s L-111 garbage disposals is that it comes ready to install since it’s pre-wired. Even better, this unit has an EZ mount and a rubber gasket that seals the sink-flange connection.
Moreover, the body of this garbage disposal is crafted from a reinforced polymer and attaches to the flange with a twist-lock connector. Not to forget that the kit includes a fitting that you can use to connect the dishwasher discharge hose. At the same time, you can connect the discharge pipe to the existing P-trap, but you’ll need a compression fitting, which isn’t included. All in all, this garbage disposal has a relatively straightforward installation process and even comes with instructions.
Lastly, this unit will not take up space under your kitchen sink as it’s only 13” long and 5” wide. However, like larger Waste King garbage disposal models, L-111 has a front-mounted reset button and a 2-year warranty that covers most problems that may arise.
Specifications
- Feed type: Continuous
- Motor Rating: 0.3 HP
- Grinding speed: 1900 RPM
- Capacity: 22 ounces
- Chamber material: Reinforced polymer
- Dimensions: 5.25” diameter X 12.75” high
Benefits
- Easy installation
- Affordable
- 2-year warranty
- Quieter motor
- Includes a dishwasher hookup
- Comes with a removable splash guard
Drawbacks
- Lower horsepower
- Not ideal for extensive use
3. Moen GXS75C Host Series Garbage Disposal
Interestingly, despite having an ultra-high horsepower motor, this unit offers a quieter performance, thanks to its built-in SoundSHIELD sound-deadening insulation technology. Indeed, you can even enjoy your favorite TV show while this garbage disposal is in operation.
Moreover, this unit comes at a relatively affordable price and includes a 10-year limited warranty to demonstrate its longevity. Not to forget that it’s relatively easy to install, especially if you have a power outlet under the sink since it comes with a pre-installed cord. Better still, this disposal includes a universal mount that can fit almost all types of existing 3-bolt mounting assemblies, including those from other brands.
Bottom line, if you want a continuous feed garbage disposal that is easy to install, Moen GXS75C is a perfect choice for you. Unfortunately, like with any other continuous-feed model, it’s not the safest option if you have children in your home.
Specifications
- Chamber material: Stainless steel
- Feed type: Continuous
- Horsepower: ¾ HP
- Dimensions: 9.69 X 9.69 X 14.88”
- Grinding speed: 2700 RPM
Benefits
- High-speed motor
- 10-year warranty
- Sound reduction technology
- Compatible with most existing mounting assemblies
- Comes with a pre-installed power cord
- Easily fits under most sinks due to its compact design
Drawbacks
- No built-in hex slot
- Not a safe option for households with kids
4. Insinkerator Evolution Compact Garbage Disposal
However, despite its compact nature, this unit generates enough power to shred tough food scraps, including melon rinds and chicken bones. This is because it’s equipped with a 0.75 HP motor and multi-grind technology. As a result, it can repeatedly break down food waste and tough vegetable scraps into smaller particles with ease.
It’s also worth mentioning that Evolution compact disposal is very quiet during operation. Thanks to its SoundSeal sound insulation technology as well as an anti-vibration tailpipe and anti-vibration sink mount. In addition, the unit has a rubber baffle that fits into the drain to reduce its noise. However, some users claim that this rubber baffle makes the water drain too slowly.
Other than that, this garbage disposal has a very straightforward installation process, especially if you’re using it to replace another Insinkerator model. It uses a standard 3-bolt assembly, which allows it to simply twist in place. On the downside, this unit requires hard wiring, so electrical expertise is needed for installation.
Specifications
- Capacity: 34.6 ounces
- Continuous feed type
- Grinding speed: 1725 RPM
- Horsepower: 0.75 HP
- Dimensions: 12.13 X 8 X 8”
- Chamber material: Alloy stainless steel
Benefits
- Great space-saving compact design
- Comes with a protective liner to prevent leaks
- Noticeably quieter operation than other models
- Easy installation
- Made using durable stainless steel materials
- Powerful motor and grinder
Drawbacks
- Doesn’t come with a power cord
- Drains slowly due to the rubber baffle
5. Waste Maid WM-658-3B Garbage Disposal
At first glance, you’ll notice that this Waste Maid WM-658-3B garbage disposal is almost twice the size of other units we’ve reviewed so far. Specifically, it has a diameter of 20” and a height of 19”. So, before you buy this model, make sure you have adequate space under the kitchen sink to house this hefty unit.
On the bright side, this unit is equipped with a 1.25 HP motor, making it one of the most powerful garbage disposals on the list. This allows it to cut through heaps of food scraps without flinching.
So, if you have a big family or regularly invite friends over to your place, this unit may be the perfect option for you. After all, this Waste Maid continuous-feed disposal can tackle most types of food scraps, including watermelon rinds.
When it comes to construction, this garbage disposal is made up of stainless steel components to last for years without corrosion. And like most garbage disposals, it comes with a 3-bolt mounting system to ensure a fast installation or replacement.
As you would expect, you can add food to this disposal while it is running since it is a continuous feed model. However, there is a unique feature that makes it stand out from other continuous feed garbage disposals; Silver Guard. This is a powerful magnet system that catches metal objects and cutlery before they fall into the unit. On top of that, this disposal unit has a removable rubber splash guard for easy cleanup.
Specifications
- Type: Continuous feed model
- Power: 1.25 HP
- Grinding speed: 2800 RPM
- Grinding chamber material: Stainless steel
- Dimensions: 20 x 20 x 19”
Benefits
- Comes with a 3 ft power cord
- 3-bolt mount assembly for easy and fast installation
- Ideal for medium and large households
- The removable rubber splash guard makes it easy to clean
- Durable construction
Drawbacks
- Bulky design
6. GE 1HP Garbage Disposal
With a 1 HP motor rating, this GE continuous-feed garbage disposal has enough grinding power to handle various food scraps including cobs, rinds, pits, and peels. However, the manufacturer doesn’t recommend putting corn husks and large bones as it can take the machine a considerable amount of time to shred them. Similarly, harder food items like carrots will take a little longer to grind up.
All in all, this unit can tackle most food scraps without jamming or needing intervention. Besides, this unit is equipped with stainless steel dual-swivel grinding blades with anti-jam technology. On top of that, the 1 HP motor, along with 2800 RPM grinding action helps to create a fast and fine grinding action.
As if that’s not enough, this unit has specialized drain-boosting technology. This mechanism forces water down to clear the drain quickly and reduce the risk of clogs.
Regarding the installation, this disposal unit comes with a 3-bolt adapter kit for fast and easy installation. In addition, the body of this unit is crafted from reinforced plastic and connects to the sink flange with a twist-lock connector.
On the same note, an existing P-trap can easily connect to the unit’s discharge pipe with a compression fitting, even though it’s not included. However, this GE garbage disposal comes with a connection fitting for the dishwasher discharge hose and is considered ‘septic-safe’.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 5 x 5 x 13”
- Grinding speed: 2800 RPM
- Horsepower Rating: 1 HP
- Feed Type: Continuous
- Capacity: 27 ounces
Benefits
- Includes a convenient rubber gasket to seal the kitchen sink flange
- Anti-jam technology
- Easy to install
- Handles most food items
- Grinding components are made of stainless steel for longevity
Drawbacks
- Doesn’t come with a power cord
7. Frigidaire FF05DISPC Corded Garbage Disposal
Also, this unit is considered one of the best garbage disposals for small kitchens. Thanks to its sleek and compact design as it’s almost half the size of average garbage disposals, sitting at a height of 12.8” and a diameter of 5.2”. So, if you have limited space under your kitchen sink, Frigidaire FF05DISPC is a good choice.
Another stand-out feature offered by this unit is that it has an antibacterial shield in the grinding chamber. This helps to prevent odors from wafting out of the drain, keeping it smelling fresh. In addition, the unit has a partially insulated sound shell and quick-grind technology to reduce vibration and noise coming from the disposal.
Lastly, this unit is relatively easy to install as it even comes with a power cord. On top of that, it’s remarkably well-priced and comes with an exceptionally long 12-year warranty.
Specifications
- Feed type: Continuous
- Dimensions: 12.8 x 5.2 x 5.2”
- Horsepower rating: 0.5 HP
- Grinding speed: 2400 RPM
- Capacity: 30 ounces
Benefits
- Compact and efficient design
- Reasonably priced
- Includes a power cord for easy installation
- Low noise operation
- Handles various food scraps without causing jams
- Ideal for small kitchens
Drawbacks
- No cons
8. KitchenAid Superba Garbage Disposal
This continuous feed garbage disposal is a power-packed device with exceptional ability to handle large loads of various food wastes including fish bones, onion skins, corncobs, and meat scraps. Better yet, the unit is equipped with a jam sensor that prevents it from clogging when you load it with stringy vegetables such as celery.
To add to its performance, this unit has a 3⁄4 HP motor that grinds food waste in 2 stages. At the same time, its grinding chamber has a capacity of 40 ounces, allowing it to handle large volumes of food scraps with ease.
In addition, this unit has a unique SoundSeal technology that muffles its 2-stage grinding process, making it one of the quietest garbage disposals out there. For instance, this unit is 40% quieter than comparable garbage disposal models.
On the downside, this unit takes up a lot of space due to its large grinding chamber. Also, you might need to hire a professional electrician and plumber to install it. Not to forget that it comes at a relatively higher price point compared to other garbage disposals on the list. Other than that, it’s a great option for large households, deep sinks, and frequent entertaining.
Specifications
- Capacity: 40 ounces
- Grinding speed: 1725 RPM
- Feed type: Continuous
- Chamber material: Stainless steel
- Horsepower Rating: 0.75 HP
- Dimensions: 12.75 x 9 x 9”
Benefits
- Large Capacity
- Pleasantly quiet unit
- Grinds quickly & finely
- Powerful motor
Drawbacks
- Bulky
- A bit pricey
9. Waste King L-3200 Garbage Disposal
In addition, this garbage disposal has a generous grinding chamber with a capacity of up to 30 ounces. As a result, it can conveniently tackle food waste for households of more than 4 people. At the same time, its grinding speed of around 2700 RPM allows it to grind leftovers quickly.
As for the installation, this unit has a specialized EZ mount that allows you to get it up and running in no time. Not to forget that it comes with a power cord, making the installation process much easier.
Unlike some garbage disposals, you’ll also note that this unit comes with a splash guard. This helps to ward off any unwanted odors and keep your kitchen sink’s interior sparkling. And when it comes to cleaning the disposal, you can easily remove this splash guard and clean it with your favorite garbage disposal cleaner and deodorizer.
The only issue with this garbage disposal is that it cannot fit under all kitchen sinks since its base and motor are a bit larger than similar models. Apart from that, it’s a great choice for large sinks and even comes with an impressive 8-year warranty that covers both mechanical and material defects free of charge.
Specifications
- Grinding speed: 2700 RPM
- Feed type: Continuous
- Dimensions: 7.75 x 7.75 x 13.75”
- Capacity: 30 ounces
- Horsepower: 3/4 HP
- Chamber material: Reinforced polymer
Benefits
- Made from rust-resistant stainless steel components
- Backed by an 8-year limited warranty
- Comes with a power cord
- Includes a removable splash guard for convenient cleaning
- Compact size with high horsepower
Drawbacks
- Can be a bit difficult to install as it requires several tools
10. Insinkerator Evolution Excel Garbage Disposal
One feature that allows this unit to deliver a super quiet operation is that its stainless steel cover has sound insulation between it and the grinding chamber. On top of that, the unit has a rubber-sheathed discharge pipe and top mount to prevent vibrations from rippling through to the plumbing system of the sink.
That aside, this garbage disposal is equipped with a large grinding chamber and 1 HP motor. This gives it enough power to grind up unwanted food scraps like raw carrots, chicken bones, celery, and baked bones. More notably, these food scraps come out very fine, helping them pass through the disposal and P-trap with ease. Best of all, this unit has an auto-reverse grind system and jam sensor to prevent it from getting clogged.
Specifications
- Motor Rating: 1 HP
- Capacity:
- Dimensions:
- Chamber materials: Stainless steel
- Feed type: Continuous
- Grinding speed:
Benefits
- Backed by a 10-year warranty
- Powerful 1 HP motor
- Significantly quieter than other models
- Simple installation process
Drawbacks
- Pricey
Important Things to Consider When Buying the Best Garbage Disposal (Buyer’s Guide)
Before choosing the best garbage disposal to eliminate food waste in your home, there are important factors you need to consider. Also, it’s essential to consider how its specifications affect its performance.
With that in mind, here are some of the key factors that should guide your buying decision;
-
Garbage Disposal Size/ Dimensions
The size of a garbage disposal will impact its compatibility with the kitchen sink. For instance, larger models might not fit in the kitchen cabinet under all sinks. After all, garbage disposals aren’t one-size-fits-all. Instead, the grinding chamber varies from one model to another, while a more powerful motor usually means a bigger disposal. As a result, some units come as wide and short models, while others are taller but more narrow.
Whichever the case, it’s important to also measure the under-sink space carefully to ensure the unit you intend to buy will fit.
-
Horsepower Rating
The horsepower rating of a garbage disposal plays a crucial role in determining the type of food waste it can grind. For instance, a 0.3 HP unit is designed to handle soft food and meat trimming, while a 0.75 to 1 HP disposal can tackle tougher food particles like melon rinds. Also, a garbage disposal with a higher horsepower rating experiences fewer clogs since it has enough power to grind various food items efficiently.
-
Chamber material
The grinding chamber of the garbage disposal is constantly exposed to water and food waste. For that reason, it’s important to invest in a unit with a grinding chamber that can last for the long haul. Generally, grinding chambers are made from different materials like plastic, stainless steel, galvanized steel, and pot metal.
Most residential garbage disposals are made from stainless steel since it lasts longer. Moreover, stainless steel grinding components are rust-resistant and easy to clean with rock salt or ice cubes.
Similarly, plastic/ reinforced polymer doesn’t corrode, making it easy to clean. However, plastic components dry out over time, causing them to crack. Other than that, these units will still last a long time and are more affordable than their stainless steel counterparts.
On the other hand, galvanized steel has a protective coating to prevent the components from corrosion. Unfortunately, this coating starts to erode as soon as you start using the disposal. Consequently, the grinding chambers start to rust in just a few months, causing the parts to fail altogether in the long run.
Lastly, pot metal is usually painted or plated. However, this coating will eventually chop away, exposing the metal underneath to rust. On the bright side, the thickness of pot metal components allows them to last for decades.
Whichever grinding chamber material, it’s important to ensure that its blades are designed to withstand the wear and tear of running the disposal. If possible, choose a unit with stainless steel blades.
-
Installation
The average cost of installing a new garbage disposal is around $500. In addition, you’ll need a new receptacle, switch, fitting, and some other parts. On the other hand, the cost of replacing a garbage disposal can be as little as $150 for the equipment and installation process.
Either way, if you are planning to install the garbage disposal yourself, look for a unit with a quick-mounting system for fast and simple installation. Luckily, most units have a 3-bolt mounting assembly with a turn-and-lock system that easily secures the unit to the sink. Also, if you have a power outlet below the sink, look for a corded unit or buy a power cord separate and wire it to the garbage disposal.
