If you are searching for ways to optimize your kitchen disposal methods, a trash compactor not only reduces the number of trash bags you go through but also makes a more efficient use of space. The ability to hide your compactor underneath the counter is aesthetically beneficial but there are additional features that you may want to consider when you go shopping for one of these.

1. Capacity and Compression Force

Two of the most important features you will want to watch for are capacity and compression force, both of which will help to maximize efficiency. The higher the compression force, the more compact your trash will be; the greater the capacity, the more trash that can be compacted before you have to swap out the bags. If you can max out one both of these features, you will reduce the frequency of removal as much as possible.

2. Anti-Jam Sensors

Sometimes trash compactors can get jammed or malfunction and it’s nice to know when this happens so that you can remove the obstruction and prevent damage to the machine. Anti-jam sensors will tell you when something is wrong; oftentimes, this may be in the form of an alarm of some kind. Once you find out if your trash compactor has a sensor, learn what the alert is so that you recognize it when it sounds.

3. Noise Insulation

From the compactor’s moving parts to the sound of crunching trash, you may want to consider trash compactors that have excellent noise insulation. This is especially the case if your trash compactor is free-standing. Compactors that live underneath your counter already have natural insulation as a result but can still be somewhat loud depending on how they function.

4. Convertibility

There are three kinds of trash compactors: freestanding, under-the-counter, and convertible. Convertible compactors make it possible to go from out in the open to under the counter and back so if, for whatever reason, you need to move your compactor from one place to the other, you will be able to do so easily.

5. Tilt-Away Baskets

Most trash compactor pull out similarly to a drawer but depending on how much space you are given, you may be better off with a tilt-away basket. A tilt-away basket’s features make it easier to remove and replace the trash bags without the counter or the compactor itself getting in the way. Trash compactors are designed to make garbage disposal easier so you should hunt for the features that make it so.

6. Built-in Air Freshener

You may also want to consider built-in air fresheners. Either these will be actual air fresheners or a compartment where you can insert air fresheners of your own. While your trash is tightly sealed in the compactor, keep in mind that you are keeping more garbage

inside for longer so you will want to hide any smells that arise as a result. Air freshening devices will help you keep your kitchen looking and smelling clean.