The best garbage disposals are identified by their features and overall performance. To be considered among the best, a garbage disposal should be of good quality, easy to use, and durable. The functionality of disposals will vary from one product to another. Users need to have a clear use case in mind before purchasing. For instance, the best home garbage disposal may not do well in a commercial setting.
Use cases for garbage disposals include recycling food waste, safely disposing of toxic waste, and ensuring that sinks do not become clogged. Their main function is to chop large bits of waste into smaller, manageable chunks. Various brands make these devices. Some of the most reliable garbage disposal brands are InSinkErator, Franke, KitchenAid, Waste King, Frigidaire, WasteMaid, and Moen.
This article provides garbage disposal reviews and a guide of what to look for in the top-rated garbage disposals.
Our Top Garbage Disposal Picks
- 1. Best Overall - InSinkErator Garbage Disposal, Badger 5
- 2. Best Commercial - Amazon Commercial Garbage Disposal
- 3. Best Budget - Waste King L-1001 Garbage Disposal
- 4. Best Noise Free - Waste Maid 10-US-WM-058-3B
- 5. Best Lightweight - Moen GXS75C Host Series
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1. Waste King L-1001 Garbage Disposal
- 1/2-Horsepower Disposal
- 115 Volts
- 2600 RPM
The L-1001 is compact waste disposal that is easy to install. It does not require or come with a power cable. The system is efficient at dealing with everyday food scraps. Its size makes it perfect for the average kitchen sink or domestic septic tank. The 1/2-Horsepower motor is effective and fairly energy efficient.
The L-1001 is compact waste disposal that is easy to install. It does not require or come with a power cable. The system is efficient at dealing with everyday food scraps. Its size makes it perfect for the average kitchen sink or domestic septic tank. The 1/2-Horsepower motor is effective and fairly energy efficient.
There is a safety reset button on this garbage disposal. This is used to intervene in the event of a blockage, overload, or jam in the system. The continuous feed disposal is powered through a wall switch or sink-mounted air switch. It runs until it is manually powered off. There is a 32-inch power cord that allows room for placement in a position of choice.
Pros
- Durable Stainless Steel interior
- Comes at a reasonable price
- Easy to install
Cons
- Can be noisier than others
- Drain and mounting parts are plastic
2. InSinkErator Garbage Disposal, Badger 5
- 1/2 Horsepower
- 120 Volts
- Disposal Galvanized Steel Grinder
The Badger 5 features an easy swap installation system. This makes it easy to replace any InSinkErator garbage disposal model. It uses a Quick Lock Sink Mount to engage and disengage. The 30 Cubic Feet Per Minute flow rate makes it an effective device for domestic use. It has a ½ HP Dura-Drive induction motor.
The Badger 5 features an easy swap installation system. This makes it easy to replace any InSinkErator garbage disposal model. It uses a Quick Lock Sink Mount to engage and disengage. The 30 Cubic Feet Per Minute flow rate makes it an effective device for domestic use. It has a ½ HP Dura-Drive induction motor.
There is a stainless steel finish on the inside. The galvanized steel used for large parts of the construction is a great indicator of durability. If you are replacing an older InSinkerator model, you can use the same mounts.
Pros
- Compatible with regular power cords
- Can use mounting units from older devices
- 3 Year Limited warranty with free in-home service
- Easy to install
Cons
- Does not come with a power cord
- Does not have a safety stopper
3. Waste Maid 10-US-WM-058-3B Garbage Disposal
- 2600 RPM
- 3-foot long power cord
- 1/2 Horsepower Disposal
The WasteMaid 058 is a 1/2 HP Garbage Disposal. It has a permanent magnet motor that runs at 2600 RPM. The 34-inch long power cord enables easy placement and connection to a power outlet. It has a Torque Master Balanced Grinding System that is computer-designed to deliver balanced performance. This results in quieter vibrations when the machine is working.
The WasteMaid 058 is a 1/2 HP Garbage Disposal. It has a permanent magnet motor that runs at 2600 RPM. The 34-inch long power cord enables easy placement and connection to a power outlet. It has a Torque Master Balanced Grinding System that is computer-designed to deliver balanced performance. This results in quieter vibrations when the machine is working.
The 3 bolt mounting system facilitates easy replacement. An existing sink flange can be used instead of installing a new one. The removable squash guard ensures a clean flow that is easy to clean.
Pros
- Quieter than other models
- Corrosion-resistant housing
- Bolt-free system that is easy to install
Cons
- Largely made of plastic
- Does not have a rubber gasket for the sink
4. Moen GXS75C Host Series 3/4 HP Continuous-Feed Garbage Disposal
- 2700 RPM VORTEX
- ¾ Horsepower Disposal
- 115 Volts
The Moen GXS75C is a Continuous Feed Garbage Disposal ¾ horsepower Vortex motor. It boasts a SoundSHIELD that quietens the device as it functions. The simple swap system makes it easy to replace existing devices including those from other brands. This is courtesy of the Universal XPRESS Mount. It comes with a pre-installed power cable. This compact device takes up very little space.
The Moen GXS75C is a Continuous Feed Garbage Disposal ¾ horsepower Vortex motor. It boasts a SoundSHIELD that quietens the device as it functions. The simple swap system makes it easy to replace existing devices including those from other brands. This is courtesy of the Universal XPRESS Mount. It comes with a pre-installed power cable. This compact device takes up very little space.
This garbage disposal is compatible with most septic tanks. It has a pre-installed power cord. This is easy to remove for rewiring. The continuous feed system uses stainless steel grind components. Accessories include Drain Stopper, 360 Clean Rinse Splash Guard, Drain Elbow, and Mounting Assembly.
Pros
- Lightweight device
- Can easily remove the rubber blowback assembly for cleaning
- Comes with a 10-year limited warranty
- Compatible with various fixtures and fittings
Cons
- Noisier than other devices
5. Waste King Legend Series 1 HP Continuous Feed Garbage Disposal with Power Cord - (L-8000)
- Lifetime Limited In-Home Warranty
- 1 Horsepower Disposal
- 2800 RPM
The L-8000 features a high-speed 1 Horsepower, 2800 RPM permanent magnet motor. It is insulated to reduce noise. The insulation is also effective for jam prevention. It has an EZ Mount designed for easy installation on kitchen sinks. The removable splash guard makes the cleaning easier.
The L-8000 features a high-speed 1 Horsepower, 2800 RPM permanent magnet motor. It is insulated to reduce noise. The insulation is also effective for jam prevention. It has an EZ Mount designed for easy installation on kitchen sinks. The removable splash guard makes the cleaning easier.
It comes with a 32-inch pre-installed power cord. The grind components are made of durable stainless steel. This is the same material that is used on the sink drain flange. The feed is activated on the wall switch.
Pros
- Fairly quiet disposal
- Very easy to install
- Efficient disposal system
Cons
- Narrower throat of the mounting
- Installation can be confusing
6. InSinkErator Evolution Essential XTR
- 1725 RPM
- ¾ Horsepower Disposal
The combination of a Satin Nickel air switch & power cord gives additional functionality to the continuous feed system. It makes the control easily accessible and convenient by placing the button within arm’s reach.
The InSinkErator Essential XTR is a ¾ Horsepower Dura-Drive Induction Motor garbage disposal. It boasts the easy swap fitting technology for quick installation. The Quick Lock mount it uses is compatible with other InSinkErator models. The evolution technology is a and 2-Stage Multigrind Technology that can grind some of the toughest food scraps. It features alloy stainless steel components that are paired with a LeakGuard Liner.
The combination of a Satin Nickel air switch & power cord gives additional functionality to the continuous feed system. It makes the control easily accessible and convenient by placing the button within arm’s reach.
Pros
- Fairly quiet
- Powerful two stage processing
- Easily accessible switch
Cons
- Water draining is slow
7. Frigidaire FF75DISPC1 3/4-HP Corded Disposer
- 2700 RPM
- Fully insulated sound shell
- ¾ Horsepower Disposal
The FF75DISPC1 features the Torque Master Balanced Grinding System to deal with food waste efficiently. It is a reasonably quiet grinding system. The BioShield Antimicrobial technology is molded inside the disposer to deal with odors often generated by food waste build up. The design is tall and compact to save space and enable installation in tight spaces.
The FF75DISPC1 features the Torque Master Balanced Grinding System to deal with food waste efficiently. It is a reasonably quiet grinding system. The BioShield Antimicrobial technology is molded inside the disposer to deal with odors often generated by food waste build up. The design is tall and compact to save space and enable installation in tight spaces.
There is a Powerful Silver Guard magnetic ring at the opening to stop metal objects from entering the grinder. This helps avoid one of the most common damages that disposals encounter. There is an easy-to-remove splash guard that can be cleaned and reinstalled.
Pros
- Reasonably priced
- Has anti-odor properties
- Stops metal objects from going into the disposal
Cons
- Not consistently quiet
8. Franke FWDJ125 Disposer
- 2800 RPM
- 1-1/4-HP Horsepower Disposal
The FWDJ125 boasts the Silverguard™ magnetic rim that keeps metal objects from falling into the grinder. It is a largely Metal device that indicates durability. This is also helped by the stainless steel interior. Bio shield antimicrobial agents are molded to the disposal to deal with odor-causing bacteria. An air switch can be purchased separately to control the disposal at arm’s reach.
The FWDJ125 boasts the Silverguard™ magnetic rim that keeps metal objects from falling into the grinder. It is a largely Metal device that indicates durability. This is also helped by the stainless steel interior. Bio shield antimicrobial agents are molded to the disposal to deal with odor-causing bacteria. An air switch can be purchased separately to control the disposal at arm’s reach.
This is a jam-resistant disposal with a reasonably powerful motor. Installation is fairly straightforward, thanks to the common fitting used. The insulated shell reduces the noise that the motor produces as the disposal works.
Pros
- Powerful motor
- Has a Silverguard™ magnetic rim
- Fairly quiet
- Has antimicrobial properties
Cons
- Additional functionality requires purchase of more accessories
9. GE GFC1020N Garbage Disposal
- 3500 RPM
- 1 Horsepower Disposal
- EZ Mount installation
This garbage disposal comes with a stainless steel sink flange, dishwasher drain connector, wall switch, and sink stopper. It has a stainless steel interior. The 2-level precutter makes for an even smoother process.
The GFC1020N features a heavy duty 1 horsepower continuous feed permanent magnet motor. It runs at an impressive 3500 RPM. Installation is fairly straightforward, thank to the EZ Mount. It comes with a splash guard that can be removed from cleaning. The DrainBoost technology enhances the capacity of the disposal by reducing clogs. This is improved by the use of dual-swivel, anti-jam grinding blades.
This garbage disposal comes with a stainless steel sink flange, dishwasher drain connector, wall switch, and sink stopper. It has a stainless steel interior. The 2-level precutter makes for an even smoother process.
Pros
- Has a manual reset button
- Has powerful capability
- Reasonably quiet
Cons
- Not compatible with the standard sink flange
- Very small opening
10. AmazonCommercial Garbage Disposal with Power Cord
- 1 Horsepower Disposal
- 115V Motor
- 2800 RPM
The AmazonCommercial Garbage Disposal features a high speed grinding motor capable of efficiently dealing with food scraps. There are stainless steel grind components in this device. The permanent magnet motor is sound-insulated to reduce the noise that it produces when working. This also helps reduce jams.
The AmazonCommercial Garbage Disposal features a high speed grinding motor capable of efficiently dealing with food scraps. There are stainless steel grind components in this device. The permanent magnet motor is sound-insulated to reduce the noise that it produces when working. This also helps reduce jams.
It is a septic tank safe disposal. The replaceable splash guard makes it easy to clean and to clear up any objects that may become jammed. The safety reset button is an easy solution in case of a jam or overload.
It features a Twist-and-lock designed EZ Mount for easy installation. The power cord comes preinstalled. This is a wall switch activated disposal.
Pros
- Cost less than comparable models
- Effecient grinding
- Easy to install
Cons
- Features a plastic ring instead of metal one
- Can be noisy
11. KRAUS KWD100-75MBL
- 3800 RPM
- 3/4 Horsepower Disposal
The KWD100-75MBL is an easy-to-install 3/4 HP garbage disposal. It comes with a drain kit, stopper, splash guard and dishwasher connector. The MagnaGrind motor offers fairly powerful running at 3800RPM. This is capable of dealing with some of the toughest food scraps.
The KWD100-75MBL is an easy-to-install 3/4 HP garbage disposal. It comes with a drain kit, stopper, splash guard and dishwasher connector. The MagnaGrind motor offers fairly powerful running at 3800RPM. This is capable of dealing with some of the toughest food scraps.
The QuietStorm soundproofing technology ensures that noise is kept muffled when using the disposal. It also reduces the vibration. The sink stopper provides a buffer to soak up food before it enters the disposal. This device can be activated via the wall or an air switch. It can be used with most septic tanks.
Pros
- Comes with 5-year warranty
- Features a powerful motor
- Has a motor safety shut off feature
- It is easy to install
Cons
- Could be quieter
12. Whirlaway 191 1/3 Horsepower Garbage Disposal
- 1900 RPM
- EZ mount
- 1/3 Horsepower Disposal
The power cord comes preinstalled improving what is already an easy installation. It has a removable splash guard for easy cleaning. The reinforced polymer grind chamber is rust and corrosion-resistant. This assures durability.
The Whirlaway 191 is a compact, lightweight disposal. It uses a continuous feed system that is powered on through a wall switch. The permanent magnet motor reduces the chances of jamming and clogging. Its grind components are made of galvanized steel. This ensures an effective grinding system.
The power cord comes preinstalled improving what is already an easy installation. It has a removable splash guard for easy cleaning. The reinforced polymer grind chamber is rust and corrosion-resistant. This assures durability.
Pros
- Easy to mount
- Can be used with most septic tanks.
- Comes with 2 year limited warranty
- Low chances of jamming
Cons
- Not sound insulated
What are the best types of garbage disposals?
Garbage disposals fall into different categories based on their functionality and features. Some examples of garbage disposal types are:
- Batch feed garbage disposal: Batch feed garbage disposals are best suited for residential use. They can grind waste in small batches or at intervals.
- Continuous feed disposal system: A continuous feed disposal system is also suitable for residential use. It has a greater performance capacity than the batch feed systems. They can also be used in commercial settings. Continuous feed systems are continually powered to grind large volumes of food as it comes through.
- Undercounter garbage disposal: Undercounter garbage disposals are usually continuous feed systems. They are connected to the sink where food waste is placed.
- Manual garbage disposal: A manual garbage disposal requires human intervention to function. This can be in the form of a switch being toggled on when required. Older systems may not be electric powered.
What are the best batch feed garbage disposals?
The Waste King L-5000TC and Frigidaire FF75DISPB1 are two of the best batch feed garbage disposals on the market. They are both ¾ Horsepower motored systems. The Frigidaire FF75DISPB1 is compatible with most kitchen sink fittings for easy installation. The Waste King L-5000TC features an EZ mount system to achieve this. Both disposals are reasonably priced.
What are the best continuous garbage disposals?
The Waste King L-1001 Garbage Disposal, and the Moen GXS75C are some of the best continuous garbage disposals. The L-1001 features an energy-efficient 1/2-Horsepower motor. The GXS75C has a ¾ horsepower Vortex motor. Both devices are fairly compact, making them ideal for use under kitchen sinks.
What are the best undercounter garbage disposal?
The Moen GX50C, Waste King L-1001 and the InSinkErator Badger 5 Garbage Disposal are some of the best undercounter garbage disposals. The Moen GX50C has a simple swap mechanism for easy installation. It can also be connected to a dishwasher. The Waste King L-1001 uses an EZ mount for a quick installation. It is a corrosion resistant garbage disposal. The InSinkErator Badger 5 is a continuous feed system with a 1/2 hp Dura-Drive Induction Motor. It also has an easy swap installation system.
All three undercounter garbage disposals are compactly designed to fit under a counter.
What are the best manual garbage disposals?
The InSinkErator 750, AmazonCommercial Garbage Disposal and Waste King L-1001 are three of the best manual garbage disposals. The InSinkErator 750 boasts a 1725RPM, ¾ Horsepower motor. It has a dishwasher drain connection. The AmazonCommercial Garbage Disposal features a 1 Horsepower motor that runs at 2800 RPM. It is activated by a wall switch. The Waste King L-1001 features a 1/2 Horsepower motor that runs at 2600 RPM. It is also activated by a wall switch.
What functionality should you expect from a garbage disposal?
A person can expect a powerful motor, easy installation and ease of use from their garbage disposal. Domestic or under counter disposals should also be lightweight. The commercial and industrial ones should have more robust horsepower motors. It is also beneficial for the disposals to be easy to clean. This is usually facilitated by a rinse splash guard. Odor control is is an added benefit that users can expect.
What should you know before buying a garbage disposal?
There are several things that one should consider before they buy a garbage disposal. One of the first things to look at is the material that is used on it. Most garbage disposals will feature a fair amount of plastic mold for their structure. The durable ones will have more sturdy materials such as stainless steel to support the plastic. This is also important on the grinding mechanism inside the disposal. Stainless steel is also commonly used for this part.
Due to the constant exposure to water and other fluids, a waste disposal must be corrosion and rust resistant.
The next thing to consider is the use case for the garbage disposal. This will help determine the kind of device that you need. Batch feed disposals would be ideal for users that need it for occasional use. Residential and some commercial users would benefit from a continuous feed disposal system. The latter would require a more powerful motor than the former.
It also important to consider the rotations per minute (RPM) when looking at the motor. This will influence the garbage disposal’s overall performance. The faster it is, the quicker it will get the job done. However, it is just as important to ensure that the motor is durable.
An often hidden condition that can easily be missed when assessing potential machines is how loud the motor is. While industrial sites may get away with louder disposals, residential machines are better when the sound of the motor is muffled.
The price of the disposals is an important consideration. This will guide the devices that you can shortlist. Manual and batch feed garbage disposals tend to be the more affordable options. Industrial and continuous feed disposal systems are more expensive.
One of the most common safety features on a garbage disposal is the reset button. This is a key feature for dealing with blockages, and system jams. Without this feature, any of the aforementioned issues will require an extensive amount of work and plumbing.
What is the average price range for the best garbage disposals?
The average price range for the best garbage disposals is between $80.99 and $2000. At the lower end of the spectrum are manual garbage and under counter disposals. The other hand of the spectrum features industrial and continuous feed disposals. Higher end disposals tend to be more durable than the cheaper ones. On the other hand, these are also compactly designed making them ideal for household use.
The pricier garbage disposals have robust motors. They often come with a better warranty cover than the cheaper ones. It is important to match your use case when considering the prices.
What is the main difference between a garbage disposal and trash compactor?
The main difference between a garbage disposal and a trash compactor is their core function. Trash compactors compress trash that is placed in it. They are non-discreminant in their function. Trash compactors are not designed to handle food waste. On the other hand, garbage disposals grind food for easier disposal. They grind whole chunks of food into small, manageable sizes that are easier to compost or decompose.
What garbage disposal type is considered superior?
Continuous feed garbage disposals are considered superior to other types of disposals. Unlike batch feed garbage disposals that process limited amounts of food at a time, continuous feed garbage disposals have a system that works at all times. They tend to have a more robust motor than a batch feed system. This is the type of system that is often used on commercial and industrial systems.
What are the common mistakes for using a garbage disposal?
The most common mistakes when using a garbage disposal include misaligned expectations. This includes trying to get continuous disposal functionality from a batch feed disposal. This tends to put excess pressure on the motor. Another mistake users make when using a disposal is putting things that the machine is not designed to handle. Some of the most common culprits include:
- Ground Coffee
- Too much pasta
- Bones
- Oatmeal
- Egg shells
- Fruit pits
You can include other food that soaks water and expands. These will usually lead to a blockage in the system. Hard materials such as bones will take a toll on the grinder. The occasional one will not cause much hard. However, when done often enough, the disposal will be damaged. Avoid these mistakes by finding out how to use a garbage disposal effectively. A good rule of thumb is to never use the disposal for things you cannot chop with a knife.
What criteria define the best garbage disposal?
The most important criteria for choosing the best garbage disposal include material, price, reliability, functionality, size, and durability. Looking at the material will clearly indicate how durable the disposal is likely to be. This will also be a factor when considering the right price point for the device.
A garbage disposal made of durable material such as stainless steel would be worth more than one that extensively uses plastic. Reliability is a more complex metric to measure. The best way to do so is by considering the experiences that other users have had with the machine.
Nothing else will matter if one does not get the functionality right. This involves ensuring that any disposal purchased meets the desired use case. That includes being able to fit in the environment that it will be used. The size will play a massive role on this one.
Durability is an important factor to consider with price and reliability in mind. This is another case where the experiences and reviews of other users will help.
What type of reviews do the best garbage disposals have?
The most common complaint that garbage disposals receive is how loud they can be. This is not limited to the best ones.
Batch feed garbage disposals are often praised for the size of the chamber. Users like how much waste you can fit in them. They are often criticized for being difficult to activate.
Continuous feed disposal systems are often praised for their efficiency. Users complain that they can be much noisier than other types of garbage disposals.
Undercounter garbage disposals are usually praised for how easy they are to install. Users complain about how difficult they are to fix in the event of a jam.
Manual garbage disposals are often praised for their affordability and energy efficiency.
What are the best garbage disposal brands?
Below are the the best garbage disposal brands:
- Moen
Moen is an American bathroom and kitchen faucet brand. They have a massive catalog of products that includes garbage disposals. Their products are within the mid to high-end pricing range.
- InSinkErator
InSinkErator’s products include instant hot water taps, water filters, and garbage disposals. Their vast product line features products across the price range.
- WasteMaid
WasteMaid is a specialist food waste disposal brand. They have products in the low to mid range of the price range.
- Frigidaire
Frigidaire is an American consumer and commercial home appliances brand. Their products include kitchen appliances, laundry devices, and air conditioners. They have low to mid range products.
- Franke
Franke is a Swiss kitchen solutions brand. Their products taps, sinks, and waste management systems.
How long do the top garbage disposals last?
How long a garbage disposal will last depends on how well it is cared for. The average lifespan of the top garbage disposals is between 3-7 years. This will mean using it for the right things. Being made of a strong material such as stainless steel will also help.
Batch feed garbage disposals tend to have a longer lifespan due to the way that they are used. Continuous feed disposals have an average lifespan of 5 years. This period is usually covered by a warranty.
Where to buy a garbage disposal?
Garbage disposals can be purchased both online and in store. Some of the best places to buy are:
Walmart: Average Prices range between $65 and $360.00. Delivers in 2-3 days.
Amazon: Average Prices range between $50.80 and $450.00. Delivers in 1-2 days.
Best Buy: Average Prices range around $69.99 and $399.99. Delivers in up to 5 days.
Home Depot: Average Price ranges between $79.99 to $330. Delivers in 2 days.
Some of them are directly available to buy from their manufacturers.
What are the other best kitchen tools?
This article has covered a lot of garbage disposals. There are other kitchen tools that you can use together with your garbage disposal. Some of them are:
- Hobs
- Dishwashers
- Ventilation Hoods
These can be purchased from the same brand or in the same color to complement existing decor.
Why Trust Kitchen Infinity?
Our writers and reviewers thoroughly research every aspect of kitchen appliances or home improvement products so you can make a well-informed decision when investing in these products. We evaluate top quality products from several brands within budget friendly price ranges and contrast consumer reviews, surveys, satisfaction forms, brand performance, and annual appliance rankings. We go to great lengths to ensure that your next buy is worth every penny!
Dino Paccino
Dino is a lifelong writer and home improvement specialist. He enjoys bringing cutting-edge information on home renovation and remodeling to Kitchen Infinity.
