Doing the dishes is one of those mundane chores that you just can’t escape. However, that does not mean you can’t employ clean-up techniques to make your life a little easier. Having a garbage disposal is one of them. For one, it saves you those endless trips to the trash can to scrape dirty plates and pans before you can load them into the dishwasher.
Next, you know that horrible odor that comes from the rotting discarded food in your garbage can? You don’t have to worry about it attracting snakes and other wild animals, especially if you live in a neighborhood where garbage pickup isn’t as frequent.
Garbage disposals are designed to collect biodegradable food waste and grind it into super small pieces that you can wash down the kitchen drain without them clogging up the pipes. The efficiency with which it does this ultimately depends on the type of system you get.
We’ve reviewed the best garbage disposal, as well as other top options you might like.
1. Best Garbage Disposal Overall – InSinkErator Badger 5
Top on our list is the InSinkErator Badger 5 garbage disposal unit. This Dura-Drive motor-powered grinder is arguably the best garbage disposal on the market right now. It comes with an Easy Swap installation feature that allows for fast and easy replacement, thanks to the patented Quick Lock mount that all InSinkErator series models come with.
All you have to do is twist off the existing disposal unit you have and twist on the new one you buy. It doesn’t take any more than a couple of minutes to do it.
The Badger 5 galvanized steel construction is designed for rugged performance and remarkable functionality. There aren’t many garbage disposals in the market that offer the level of reliable performance you get from this unit. The Dura-Drive induction motor it comes with is built to deliver several years’ worth of outstanding performance.
The standard accessories that come with this particular garbage disposal include a jam-buster wrench, a tailpipe and gasket, a Quick Lock sink mount, and a ½hp food waste disposer. All parts are backed by a 2-year full-service limited warranty that also covers labor costs.
Specs
- Dimensions: 6.31 x 6.31 x 11.5 in.
- Grind components: Galvanized steel
- Grind level: Most food scraps
- Horsepower: ½
- Noise level: Standard
Pros
- It is made from high-quality components
- Easy to install and uninstall
- Grinds most food scraps
Cons
- Batteries are not included in the purchase
The Verdict
All in all, if performance, functionality, durability, and reliability matter a great deal to you, then the Badger 5 will not disappoint. Its durable steel construction is designed for rugged performance that you’ll enjoy for years to come. It’s a definite winner in our books.
2. Best Budget Choice – Waste King L-1001
Finding a reliable, dependable, and long-lasting garbage disposal at an affordable price can be quite an uphill task for the discerning buyer. More often than not, you’ll find that lower-priced models come at the expense of performance and quality. The last thing you want is to end up with a garbage disposal that breaks down every few weeks simply because it was not built to handle the grinding demands you place on it.
The Waste King L-1001 offers the best of both worlds. This compact yet powerful garbage disposal delivers amazing value for its price. It is built to handle the everyday food scraps you throw at it with such amazing zeal. Its ½hp high-speed motor is energy-efficient, highly durable, and offers an impressive grind.
One of its most endearing attributes has to be just how compact it is. Its sleek design allows you to save a tremendous amount of space under your sink, which is perfect if you’re running low on storage. The L-1001 comes with Waste King’s proprietary EZ Mount twist-and-lock system allowing you to quickly and easily replace or install the waste disposal.
The standard accessories that come with this particular unit include a removable splash guard and a power cord. All parts are backed by a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Specs
- Dimensions: 5.25 x 5.25 x 12.75 in.
- Grind components: Stainless steel
- Grind level: Most food scraps
- Horsepower: ½
- Noise level: Standard
Pros
- Compact design saves on storage space
- Doesn’t need batteries to run
- Quick and easy installation
Cons
- It is slightly noisy
The Verdict
This unit is ideal for the budget-conscious buyer. It delivers outstanding value for the money and is guaranteed to last for several years to come. The fact that it is backed by a 2-year warranty is a definite plus.
3. Best Premium Choice – InSinkErator Evolution Essential XTR
InSinkErator is no stranger to the world of garbage disposals. Its Evolution series, in particular, is no doubt one of the most advanced models in the market right now. If quality, durability, and performance are among your top criteria when shopping for a garbage disposal, then you will love what the Evolution Essential XTR brings to the table.
Not only is it built with InSinkErator’s long-lasting Dura-Drive motor, but it is also designed using proprietary, cutting-edge 2-Stage Multigrind Technology. This allows it to repeatedly grind tougher food scraps into ultra-fine pieces, which you often don’t get with other disposals. Even chicken bones and melon rinds don’t stand a chance against its superior grinding technology.
We particularly like its mode of operation. Unlike other disposals you’ll come across that are noisy and obnoxious, the Essential XTR is engineered to be relatively quiet even when grinding tough food waste. We would expect nothing less from a premium waste disposal unit.
If you need to switch out your old InSinkErator unit with this new one, its Quick Lock mount allows for easy-swap installation that works with all premium and standard Evolution series models. All its components are made from stainless steel, so you don’t have to worry about it rusting over time.
The XTR is backed by a 6-year warranty.
Specs
- Dimensions: 8.75 x 8.75 x 12.6 in.
- Grind components: Alloy stainless steel
- Grind level: Tough food scraps
- Horsepower: ¾
- Noise level: Quieter than most
Pros
- Designed to grind tough scraps like chicken bones and melon rinds
- Less noisy compared to standard disposals
- Built using high-quality components
Cons
- Water doesn’t flow through as fast
The Verdict
Overall, if you’re looking for something that delivers rugged performance when grinding tough food waste, the Essential XTR is built to do just that. Is it worth the premium price? We certainly think so.
4. Best for Septic – InSinkErator Evolution Septic Assist
While most garbage disposals are built to be septic-tank-friendly, the InSinkErator Evolution Septic Assist is several times better in every way. It comes with Bio Charge, which is a super-concentrated enzyme septic treatment that's injected into the ground food scraps to help it break down further. This minimizes the strain and demands that waste disposals add to septic systems.
The great thing about it is that it is compatible with virtually all septic tanks. You can install it in a newly designed home or use it to replace the existing disposal unit you have.
The Evolution Septic Assist comes with innovative SoundSeal technology that delivers whisper-quiet performance regardless of how tough the food waste is. Its innovative 3-Stage Multigrind feature repeatedly breaks down even the toughest scraps into ultra-fine particles. This means you never have to worry about your disposal unit jamming or clogging.
When it comes to durability, this unit is hard to beat. It is made from high-quality components that can withstand the wear and tear that comes with frequent use. The Evolution Septic Assist is backed by an 8-year in-home limited warranty.
Specs
- Dimensions: 14 x 11 x 16 in.
- Grind components: Alloy stainless steel
- Grind level: Tough food scraps
- Horsepower: ¾
- Noise level: Quiet
Pros
- It is built for septic systems
- Produces a pleasant citrus scent every time you use it
- Highly functional, reliable, and durable
Cons
- The enzyme injection system doesn’t come with replacement parts
The Verdict
All in all, the Evolution Septic Assist has enough power to finely grind tough waste and is specifically engineered to complement homes with septic systems. It is built to last and delivers outstanding value for the money.
5. Best for Stainless Steel Sink – Waste King Legend L-8000
The Waste King L-8000 garbage disposal is engineered to deliver raw, unadulterated power. Its 2800 RPM 1hp high-speed motor grinds even the toughest of food scraps in a matter of seconds. This can be attributed to the built-in magnet motor that achieves top speed almost instantly, reducing the possibility of jams. Shorter run times also mean massive savings on your electricity bill and a reduced environmental footprint.
The unit’s EZ Mount twist-and-lock design makes the installation process fast, easy, and hassle-free when replacing your existing waste disposal or installing a brand new one. Its sleek and compact design also saves on a ton of storage space under your sink without compromising power and performance.
The L-8000 is made from highly-durable rust-resistant stainless steel grind components and a grinding chamber with a corrosion-proof polymer, all designed to extend its lifespan. It comes with a dishwasher hookup and SoundShield technology to offer sound-deadening insulation that makes it quieter than most standard 1hp garbage disposals.
If your home uses a septic system, you can safely use the L-8000 with it. It efficiently tears through just about any kind of food waste you throw at it, grinding it to extremely fine septic-safe particles.
The standard accessories that come with your purchase include a power cord, drain stopper, reset button, splash guard, drain elbow and mounting assembly, and sink flange. It is backed by a 20-year warranty, so you know it is built to last.
Specs
- Dimensions: 8.5 x 8.5 x 16 in.
- Grind components: Stainless steel
- Grind level: Tough food scraps
- Horsepower: 1
- Noise level: Standard
Pros
- Has an exceptionally powerful grinding motor
- Safe to use with most septic tank systems
- Made from highly-durable corrosion-resistant components
Cons
- You may need something/someone to help support it during installation
The Verdict
The L-8000 will eat just about anything you throw at it. The sleek and compact design of this garbage disposal makes it ideal for any type of sink you have, including one made of stainless steel. All in all, if you want a unit that’s designed to last a lifetime, you can’t go wrong with it.
6. Best for Undermount Sink – Becbas Element 7
When it comes to garbage disposals tailor-made for under-mount sinks, it doesn’t get any better than the Becbas Element 7. This continuous feed model is powered by a 1hp 2,000 RPM high-speed permanent motor that minimizes the chances of clogging and jamming. Its performance-driven design delivers raw grinding power and high-efficiency while at it.
It has a built-in nylon-reinforced grinding chamber and a corrosion-proof stainless steel grinding ring and plate that are all built to last. It is also designed with a user-friendly EZ mount system that allows for quick and easy twist-and-lock installation. You can set it up and have it running without having to call a plumber to do it for you.
It’s no secret that 1hp garbage disposal units can get pretty loud as they break tough food particles. Not the Element 7, though. This model comes with a soundproof splash-guard and foam insulation, which work like a charm to reduce noise levels without compromising on functionality and performance.
In the rare event that it gets jammed or overloaded, the waste disposal unit comes with a manual reset button that reverts its running status if it shuts off. The device is backed by a 4-year warranty for quality assurance.
Specs
- Dimensions: 8.67 x 8.67 x 15.43 in.
- Grind components: Stainless steel
- Grind level: Tough food scraps
- Horsepower: 1
- Noise level: Quiet
Pros
- Automatically shuts off in case of jamming or overloading
- Its flashy red color looks lovely under the sink
- It is pretty quiet for a 1hp monster
Cons
- It's a little bulkier than most
The Verdict
Element 7 is not just a powerful waste disposal, but it is also made using high-quality components that are built to last. If safety is important to you, you’ll be happy to know that this unit comes with a safety feature that automatically shuts off the machine when something jams it. All in all, Element 7 delivers outstanding value compared to other models in its class.
7. Best for Deep Sinks – WasteMaid 158
Deep sinks often take up a lot of space under the countertop. You need to keep this in mind when shopping for garbage disposal; otherwise, you might end up getting something that takes up all the valuable storage underneath.
WasteMaid 158 is the perfect unit for deep sinks. It is small and compact, so it won’t take up lots of room once you install it. Don’t let its small size fool you, though. Its ½hp 2,600 RPM permanent motor is as powerful as they come.
The innovative, cutting-edge technology used in the making of this disposal is simply unmatched. The Torque Master Balanced Grinding System, for instance, is an industry-first. It integrates computer-designed balanced components working in harmony to provide a maximum grinding speed and torque power like no other. This system minimizes vibration and noise to guarantee relatively quiet operation.
The fact that it is a continuous-feed disposal is yet another feature we like. It allows you to add food scraps to it while it is running, saving you the trouble of having to keep pausing to hit the start and stop button in the middle of grinding waste.
If you’re concerned about the odor that many garbage disposals develop over time, you don’t have to be with the WasteMaid 158. It is one of the few units in the market that come with a built-in BioShield Antimicrobial Odor Protection agent that’s molded into the disposer components. This inhibits the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms, effectively eliminating odor.
Now, that’s something you don’t often come by. WasteMaid 158 is backed by a 3-year manufacturer's warranty.
Specs
- Dimensions: 5.2 x 5.2 x 5.2 in.
- Grind components: Stainless steel
- Grind level: Most food scraps
- Horsepower: ½
- Noise level: Relatively quiet
Pros
- Affordable price-point
- Doesn’t emit any foul odors even after long-time use
- Compact design saves on space under the counter
Cons
- Aside from the grind components, the rest of the unit made of plastic
The Verdict
All in all, this particular unit delivers outstanding value for money. Its compact and sleek design makes it the perfect entry-level garbage disposal for anyone looking to save space under their sink.
8. Best for Quick Operation – Moen GXS75C Host Series
If you’re the kind of person who loves to entertain but hates the clean-up process that comes afterward, the Moen GXS75C was designed with you in mind. It uses continuous feed technology to eat up whatever you throw at it without intermittently powering it on and off.
It’s sleek, compact, and lightweight design frees up valuable storage under the counter, which is great if space is a bit of a luxury in your home. This ¾hp unit has a powerful 2,700 RPM Vortex motor that grinds food scraps into minute-sized particles, effectively minimizing the chances of clogging or jamming the pipes.
For the DIY lovers in the house, the Moen disposal comes with a Universal XPRESS Mount feature that makes for quick and easy installation. If your existing garbage disposal has a 3-bolt mounting assembly, the Moen unit will fit perfectly on it.
One great feature we like is just how quiet it is. It is engineered with SoundShield technology, which provides a remarkable amount of sound-deadening insulation. The Moen’s advanced grinding power can shred through cooked meat, banana peels, lemon rinds, small fruits, and a host of other food scraps that conventional garbage disposals can’t handle.
This unit is backed by a limited warranty that also includes in-home service.
Specs
- Dimensions: 9.69 x 9.69 x 14.88 in.
- Grind components: Stainless steel
- Grind level: Most food scraps
- Horsepower: ¾
- Noise level: Quiet
Pros
- Ideal for people who frequently host guests at their home
- It is compatible with most 3-bolt mounts
- Compact and lightweight
Cons
- Doesn’t come with a cable connector for homes with old-style cabling
The Verdict
Overall, Moen GXS75C is an outstanding piece of kitchen machinery. If you’re the kind of person who loves to host dinner parties and get-togethers at your home, this is the perfect complement to your sink to make the clean-up process a breeze.
9. Best for Small Spaces – General Electric GFC320N
The GE GFC320N is the perfect compact entry-level garbage disposal for the budget- and size-conscious buyer. Its well-thought-out design comes with dual-level pre-cutters, stainless steel dual-swivel jam-resistant impellers, and a direct-wire power connection. It also has a safety feature that turns off the machine when it is overloaded, allowing you to manually reset it to start it up again.
We particularly like its easy-to-use continuous feed system. Simply turn on the cold water, switch the unit on, scrape in the food waste, and it will take care of the dirty work for you.
The GFC320N also comes with an advanced insulation feature that guarantees relatively quiet operation. Therefore, you can maintain the festive mood at a dinner party as you quickly clean up in the kitchen, without that horrid noise that conventional waste disposals make.
Other features you might like include the EZ mount installation, dishwasher drain connector, galvanized steel turntable, wall-switch with a sink stopper, and cold-rolled carbon-steel armature shaft construction.
Specs
- Dimensions: 5.19 x 5.19 x 12.69 in.
- Grind components: Stainless steel
- Grind level: Most food scraps
- Horsepower: ⅓
- Noise level: Relatively quiet
Pros
- It is septic-safe
- Minimal chance of jamming and clogging
- Compact and lightweight
Cons
- The hard-wiring installation is a little awkward
The Verdict
This high-speed ⅓hp garbage disposal might be small but make no mistake about it. It delivers an outstanding amount of power to grind most food scraps into fine particles. If you’re looking to save on space under your countertop without sacrificing performance, the GFC320N is precisely what you need to do it.
10. Best Compact Garbage Disposal – Emerson E202
As far as lightweight ½hp garbage disposals go, it doesn’t get any better than the Emerson E202. It is powered by a quiet Dura-Drive heavy-duty induction motor. This space-saving compact disposal is made from galvanized steel and has high-quality, rugged components that are built to stand the test of time.
The E202 comes with a 26 oz. grind chamber that can handle most food scraps. Granted, it’s not the most powerful disposal unit we’ve come across, but it is a functional and reliable piece of machinery when the cost is among the primary concerns.
As you would expect, installation is a quick and easy process thanks to the Quick-Lock system it comes with. If you want to connect it to your trusted dishwasher, the E202 comes with a drain connection that makes it possible.
It is backed by a 1-year limited warranty.
Specs
- Dimensions: 7.38 x 7.38 x 13.25 in.
- Grind components: Stainless steel
- Grind level: Most food scraps
- Horsepower: ½
- Noise level: Standard
Pros
- Quick and easy installation process
- Saves on space underneath the sink
- It is compatible with most sink rings
Cons
- The power cord isn’t included in the purchase since it is meant to be hard-wired
The Verdict
If you’re looking for a compact and affordable garbage disposal unit, the E202 is designed with you in mind. The value it delivers is hard to beat.
How to Choose the Best Garbage Disposal – Buyer’s Guide
While garbage disposals are designed for grinding food waste into fine particles, they’re not all built equal. Here are some of the questions you need to have at the back of your mind when choosing the best one.
1. What Kind of Drain Pipes Does Your Home Have?
Before you spend money on a shiny new garbage disposal, the first thing you need to establish is whether the existing drain pipes in your kitchen are up to the task. Older homes tend to have rugged cast iron drain pipes, which might present a bit of a problem when trying to get debris through them. If these are what you currently have installed, getting a waste disposal may not be ideal, particularly if your pipes clog often.
If, on the other hand, your drain pipes are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), then you don't have to worry about ground up food debris causing a blockage. They're smooth and slippery enough for ground scraps to glide through easily.
2. What Is the Size of Your Septic Tank?
If your home uses a septic system for waste disposal, the size of the septic tank you have will determine whether or not getting a garbage disposal is a good idea. If you have a smaller tank, you might have to limit the frequency with which you use your garbage disposal.
It may also require that you pump it out more often or size up your tank altogether. It’s always a good idea to talk to a professional septic system inspector before installing a new disposal.
3. Is There Ample Room Under Your Sink?
Once you’ve confirmed that your existing plumbing and septic system can handle the demands of a waste disposal unit, the next step involves checking that you have enough room under your countertop to accommodate it. Remember, this device is supposed to attach directly to the underside of your sink’s drain opening, so size matters when choosing the best garbage disposal.
Keep in mind that units with some degree of sound insulation are usually bigger than those without. If the noise of a garbage disposal bothers you, ensure that you have ample room under the counter to house a bigger sound-insulated one.
4. What Type of Garbage Disposal Are You Getting?
The price of garbage disposal systems ranges anywhere between $50 and $300. Premium models could cost up to $500. Smaller, more lightweight units usually have much smaller motors – usually with a ½hp rating – and shorter warranties than their larger counterparts.
The premium units, on the other hand, generally have longer warranties, sturdier steel components, more sound insulation, and multiple grind stages of breaking down food scraps into ultra-fine particles. Garbage disposals usually fall into two categories:
Continuous-Feed Disposals
These allow you to toss food scraps in while the machines run. They are the most common type you’ll find in the market and are a more affordable option for the budget-conscious consumer.
They usually need wall switches to run, which can only be installed by certified electricians. There is, of course, an air switch option that doesn't need professional installation. It will, however, require a drill and an under-sink outlet.
One drawback of continuous-feed disposals is that anything could fall in there and end up ruined – including your prized butcher knife or smartphone – nothing is safe!
Batch-Feed Disposals
Rather than throw in food scraps while they run, batch-feed disposals require that you first load the food waste one batch at a time, then place a stopper over the drain opening before switching them on to grind the waste. These usually cost more than continuous-feed disposals and aren’t as popular. As a result, your options would be limited.
5. What Power-Rating Is Ideal for Your Needs?
The final thing you need to consider is the horsepower you need. Most garbage disposals come with a power rating of between ⅓hp and 1hp. The magic number ultimately depends on how frequently you intend to use it and the kind of waste you want it to grind.
If you cook daily and have a lot of tough food scraps to grind, you want a disposal with a ¾hp to 1hp rating. If you don’t usually cook often, an entry-level ⅓hp to ½hp disposal should suffice.
Get Rid of Waste the Right Way
There you have it – the best garbage disposal units. Use the tips we’ve detailed in the buying guide to help you pick the best one. Any of the models we’ve reviewed would be a great place to start.
Leave a Reply