Pedal-operated: This type of bin keeps your hands free when you’re cooking and negates the need for constant handwashing, making it ideal when hygiene is the priority. Most have tight-fitting lids to prevent smells, but can be smaller and slimmer than other types of bin, and may not be the best choice for those who are less mobile. I love my Brabantia bin. We have the pop-up lid one.” (Vetted by Mumsnetter BonnyandPoppy) Our verdict

I have the Brabantia Bo Touch Bin on legs. It has two 30-litre compartments, which I use for general waste and recycling. It can, however, also be bought with one large 60-litre compartment and without the legs.” Spanglybangles The size of the kitchen bin you choose will depend on the space available, how often you’re likely to empty it and how much waste your home produces. Generally speaking, a 30-litre kitchen bin will suffice for small families that empty their bin regularly or generate little waste. A 40- or 50-litre version is ideal for up to four people, while anything beyond a 60-litre capacity is a wise choice for larger households or those who prefer to change the liner as infrequently as possible. Where should the bin be positioned in the kitchen? I have a Joseph Joseph Totem bin, which has two compartments – one for rubbish and one for recycling. There’s also a removable food waste/ compost bin. I love it!” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user dressingdrown) In these times of increased hygiene awareness, touch-free bins are unsurprisingly surging in popularity. Make a style statement with this retro-inspired model from Swan, which adds a touch of vintage to your kitchen and automatically opens when it detects objects 5cm to 15cm away – particularly useful when your hands are full. There may be larger kitchen bins out there, but this model will cater for most households and it’s reasonably priced considering its quality. This soft-close bin’s composition makes it even more appealing – made from 42% recycled material, it’s 97% recyclable after use.Waste separation: Models that allow you to separate your rubbish into general waste and recycling can greatly simplify the disposal and sorting of household refuse.

While most of us try to keep our kitchen bin as concealed as possible, owners of the stylish Brabantia Bo display theirs with pride. More of a furniture centrepiece than a waste receptacle, this beautiful, leggy model is a joy to behold. In fact, oodles of Mumsnetters can’t speak highly enough of this tall bin, which is the perfect height for most people. I love my sensor bin. Not had any issues with it. Except sometimes I wave my hand in front of non-sensor bins, expecting them to open.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user Meruem) Bins are hard to keep clean. Probably the best advice is to get a good bin with an easily-opening lid. Curver are good.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user Yusanaim) Our verdict Battery life is likely to be short if this bin is placed in a high-traffic area or its novelty factor is too frequent a temptation for any kids of the house.

How do I choose the best kitchen bin?

I have had so many bins that either broke or just weren’t practical. Now I’ve got the Joseph Joseph Totem bin and it’s fab.” (Vetted by Mumsnetter ViperAtTheGatesOfDawn) Our verdict I’ve spent more time than I want to admit researching kitchen bins. In the end, we went for a Simplehuman bin, which I’m very happy with.” (Vetted by Mumsnet user Neolara) Our verdict Why is it so hard to find a good kitchen bin? I just need a chunky, solid, rectangular metal bin that opens easily, will agree to release the bin bag from its casing when full and can be wiped clean – 70 litres or 80 litres ideally.” (Question posed by Mumsnet user dolphinpose) Our verdict Pull-out/integrated: Built-in kitchen bins are perfect for keeping all waste out of sight and also save on floor space. However, the payoff is often a high price tag.

I’ve just got one. The kids think it’s great – they call it the magic bin. To me it’s a fancy bin; it’s just a bit of a novelty.” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user icebearforpresident) Our verdict An unsuitable rubbish receptacle can be surprisingly irritating, so a bin that’s both functional and stylish may soon become your new favourite kitchen item. This dual, pull-out bin from Blanco has twin 13-litre sections with useful handles, so they can be easily lifted out for emptying and cleaning. Simplehuman is a name that crops up time after time on the Mumsnet forums for all the right reasons. While the brand’s bins generally sit at the higher end of the price scale, this popular slimline model is one exception and a firm favourite of those with smaller kitchens or limited floor space. I have the Brabantia Bo. Ridiculous price for a bin – however, it’s a thing of total beauty and has enormous capacity, so actually worth every penny.” PomPomWrong Our verdict

8. Best fingerprint-proof kitchen bin: Brabantia Bo Hi Touch Bin

And just one word of warning: once you buy this bin, you’re likely to be tempted by matching items from Swan’s Retro range, which includes everything from mugs and microwaves to fridge freezers. Also available in a multitude of other appealing shades. When we had our kitchen refitted, we had both bins hidden. What looks like a double draw under the sink is actually a giant draw with two bins in for general waste and recycling.” Ikora Our verdict