“Trio of Tidiness: SONGMICS 3-Compartment Kitchen Bin
When dealing with everyday waste and recycling in a busy kitchen, a bin that stays organised, discreet, and functional is key. Having used the SONGMICS 3 × 18 L Kitchen Bin with soft-close lids, inner buckets, and pedal operation for several weeks, here’s a detailed, polished review highlighting its merits and minor caveats.
Design & Build Quality
The design of this bin is modern and purposeful. With three separate compartments of 18 litres each, it offers an elegant solution for sorting general waste, recyclables, and compost. The steel outer shell in a dark “ink black” tone fits neatly into most kitchens without drawing undue attention.
Each compartment has its own soft-close lid, which reduces slamming noise and adds a touch of refinement. The lids are well-hinged and operate smoothly, providing quiet closure even if you drop something in hastily. The pedals are sturdy and responsive — a firm push opens the lid confidently without feeling flimsy.
Inside, removable plastic buckets make emptying or washing straightforward. Having inner liners avoids dealing with the steel body directly each time you dispose of rubbish. The construction feels robust, and the steel exterior resists scratches or fingerprints decently, though light marks may show under strong lighting.
Daily Use & Convenience
Waste Separation & Capacity
The three compartments are ideal for typical household sorting: general waste, plastic/glass, and compost or paper. The uniform 18 L sizing keeps capacity balanced, and in my kitchen (for a family of two), I found each section adequate for a day or more of waste without overflowing.
For heavier or bulkier items, the bin copes well, though very large packaging may need folding first. The wide pedal operation makes it easy to open even with one hand, which is especially useful when your other hand is full.
Cleanliness & Odour Control
Because the lids seal snugly, odours are mostly contained, provided they are closed promptly. The soft-close mechanism ensures that the lids always drop closed, reducing air exchange. The removable buckets mean any spills or residue can be washed out without affecting the steel exterior.
One minor point: if wet waste is placed immediately inside, condensation can form inside the buckets. I found rinsing and drying the buckets regularly helps. Using separate liners for compost or food scraps can mitigate lingering smells.
Noise & Operation
Pedalling feels smooth and quiet. Even when opening adjacent lids (if compartments are side-by-side), noise is kept low thanks to the quality lids. In daily kitchen life, I rarely noticed it, even in the early morning when doing chores.
Pros & Considerations
Pros
-
Three equally sized compartments ideal for waste sorting
-
Soft-close lids reduce noise and prevent slamming
-
Sturdy pedal action for hands-free access
-
Removable buckets and included liners simplify cleaning
-
Attractive steel finish that integrates well into most interiors
Considerations
-
Very strong lighting may reveal scuff marks or fingerprints on the steel
-
Wet or moist waste requires prompt cleaning or rinsing
-
Large, bulky waste items may need pre-folding to fit
-
Over time, hinge or pedal mechanisms might need gentle maintenance
Final Thoughts
The SONGMICS 3 × 18 L Kitchen Bin offers a well-balanced mix of functionality, style, and practicality. If you value a tidy kitchen with separated waste streams and don’t want multiple standalone bins cluttering the floor, this is an excellent option. Its quiet lids, robust build, and convenience features make it a reliable choice for daily use.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you purchase through them, at no additional cost to you.