The Best Garbage Disposals for Your Money

Garbage disposals, those noisy but wonderful portals under your sink, can make kitchen cleanup safe and easy in any home.

We've all been there—a trash can filled with food scraps that seems to grow more smelly by the day. When my trash gets like this, I dread taking it out. But I know the longer I leave it, the worse it'll get. Plus, food left in a trash can for days can be a breeding ground for bacteria, posing health risks for me and my family. Gross!

A garbage disposal can make these food scraps disappear entirely, reducing the risk of pests and preventing bad odors. Plus, it speeds up and simplifies cleaning my kitchen as I can throw all those potato peels into the sink without a second thought.

How do garbage disposals work? When you place food remnants in a garbage disposal, a rotating disc with a pair of bars moves the food around a grinding chamber and rubs it on what’s called a grinding ring — a sort of circular cheese grater. Those remains then go down the sewer, pushed by the water from your faucet.

While the mechanics of a garbage disposal seem universal, the quality of function varies across brands. Some garbage disposals can effectively churn up virtually any food waste. Other units, however, aren't as strong and could jam or be damaged by too-tough scraps.

No matter what kind of disposal you have, it’s key to keep the water running throughout its use — without water, dry food grinds will get stuck. Also, it should be cold water; hot water can break down the grease or fat in foods, and you never want to dump fat or grease down your sink because it can clog the pipes.

Garbage Disposal Buying Guide

• Types of garbage disposals. There are two types of garbage disposals: the continuous feed, which is the oldest and most common type, and the batch feed, which is generally safer but more expensive.

Continuous feed garbage disposals consist of an open slot connected directly to your sink and are turned on with a switch. Once you flip that switch, the disposal's rotating discs, known as impellers, keep going while you toss food inside.

You should have the continuous feed disposal already running to avoid jamming as you throw things inside. I've been in a situation where I put too many scraps down the sink before running the disposal and the motor had trouble starting. To avoid this, start the disposal first.

Batch feed garbage disposals, as the name suggests, work in batches. You keep adding food scraps up to a certain point, then put the lid on top when you're ready to turn it on. Some batch feed disposals activate automatically with sensors or magnets, while with others you need to press down the lid to turn it on.

I suggest batch disposals if you want to save on electricity and water, as both faucet and disposal are active only when taking care of a batch. On the other hand, with continuous disposals, you can leave it on as they cut, peel or clean. Which type you get depends on what's important to you and your needs.

The most noteworthy reason I like batch garbage disposals, however, is safety. Since this kind of disposal can only be activated with the lid on, there’s no way someone could get hurt from an accidental hand down the drain. And if you drop something like a fork into the disposal, you can take it out safely before the power kicks on. This is especially important for people with children.

• Power. Garbage disposal power is measured in horsepower, but don’t expect Mustang-like numbers. The existing range is from 1/4 to 10 HP, with 1/3 to 1 HP being the most common in consumer-grade models.

A motor with 1/3 HP is enough for soft scraps, like carrot and potato peels, beans, tomatoes and the like. For more fibrous vegetables and fruits, and soft bones like those of fish, you might want 1/2 to 3/4 HP. If you’re on a special diet, however (like a carnivore diet resulting in lots of bones or a raw vegan diet resulting in thick peels and fruit pits), or you’re feeding a family of four on the daily, you should aim for 3/4 to 1 HP.

• Grinding. Grind size is important to prevent the disposal from getting stuck and your pipes from getting clogged. If you consistently end up with a lot of leftovers and eat tough foods (like potatoes and broccoli), I suggest you look particularly at grind size when selecting a garbage disposal.

While there’s a correlation between a powerful motor and the disposal’s ability to grind up food effectively, I've found that power isn’t everything. The speed of the motor (measured in RPM) and any double- or triple-grind features will have a bigger impact. Double- and triple-grinding models have separate chambers that regrind scraps to achieve even smaller particles, thus reducing the chance of clogging.

You can also consider the size and style of the holes in the grinding ring, but this is more difficult to see. You’d have to take apart a model or find videos and pictures online as this is not advertised.

• Noise. Garbage disposals are notorious for the crackling, grinding noise they make. Some, however, are noisier and more annoying than others. And if you're anything like me, loud noises can grate your nerves over time.

If noise levels are a concern, look for sound insulation features and where they’re placed on the unit. Less expensive models will only have a bit of insulation around the grinding chamber. Premium units, however, have double insulation and are entirely covered, from the mounting ring to the bottom, where the motor is placed.

Note that disposal brands don’t generally advertise a decibel number for their products. So, if you want to make extra sure the noise won’t be a nuisance, look for third-party testing or video reviews to get a better idea. I like to check Amazon and YouTube to see what other buyers have to say about the product.

• Warranty. Garbage disposals work hard, maybe harder than all other appliances — and are also often misused. Many owners throw all of their leftovers down the disposals regardless of their strength. By overworking the unit, you could shorten its usable lifespan.

Partially because of this, you’ll notice that the less horsepower a model has, the shorter its warranty period.

It’s fairly common for models with 1/2 horsepower or less to have two to five years of coverage only, while models with 3/4 to 1 horsepower can have warranties that cover eight years and more. I always recommend products with longer warranties. Better safe than sorry.

• Constructional materials and features. While most garbage disposal internal parts are made of steel, not all are made of stainless steel. This means they can rust with time. The outer case can also be either plastic or stainless steel. Obviously, the latter is a stronger and longer-lasting material. I would check the material of your garbage disposal to get a good idea of how long it'll last.

Another important feature is the unjamming mechanism. At any given moment, an excess of food or big pieces can jam your garbage disposal. With less expensive models, I've had to carefully dig around with my hand or a fork to extract jammed food bits. If this didn't work, I had to take the disposal apart.

Others have reset buttons that you can press to restart the disposal. More expensive models have sensors that prompt the owner to use more power in those situations, or even a reverse grind action to remove any blockage. I definitely wished I had this feature when I was elbow-deep in my sink!

Reviewing the Finest Garbage Disposals for 2023

1. Best overall: InSinkErator Evolution Essential XTR Garbage Disposal

List Price: $464.60

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Horsepower: 3/4 │ Noise: 65 dB approx.│ Warranty: 9 years │ Style: Continuous feed

InSinkErator invented the garbage disposal in 1927, and the company has been the clear leader in the market ever since. While the basic specs on many of its models might not seem that different from other brands, InSinkErator’s proprietary touches make its products top-notch. The Evolution Essential XTR offers pretty much all of the top features to give your kitchen the best waste disposal money can buy, which is why I chose it as the best of the list.

First, it has a 3/4 horsepower motor that can handle anything from soft fruits to cooked meat and fibrous vegetables such as broccoli stems or carrots. It also has a two-stage grinding to make your scraps smaller than average disposals before they go into your sewer system.

The nine-year warranty is about average for this level of power — most disposals in the same price range (about $450) generally offer between eight and 10 years, but some competitors go as high as 20. The entire interior is made of high-grade stainless steel, however, so I can be sure that this will last a while without rusting.

Its noise reduction technology is also very good compared to cheaper models, reading at about 65 decibels thanks to InSinkErator's SoundSeal Technology and what the company calls “advanced noise reduction.” It has multiple layers of sound insulation, and multiple anti-vibration parts as well, to avoid the aggressive shaking present in many disposals.

At under $475, the Evolution Essential XTR is probably everything you need in a garbage disposal. If you’re a prolific cook (or a pro) and are looking for something even more powerful, consider the InSinkErator’s commercial models from 1.5 all the way to 10 HP — do note, however, that they're all well above $1,000.

Pros

• Powerful 3/4 HP motor and double-grind technology
• Easy to install with included accessories
• Low motor vibrations
• Flexible rubber connectors dampen noise

Cons

• Warranty is slightly shorter than comparable models
• Difficult to install without specific tools

2. Best overall runner-up: InSinkErator Evolution Excel Garbage Disposal

List Price: $390.17

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Horsepower: 1 │ Noise: 45 dB approx. │ Warranty: 10 years │ Style: Continuous feed

The Evolution Excel is InSinkErator’s top garbage disposal and, made entirely of polished stainless steel, it certainly looks the part.

Other than looking glossy under the counter, it really shines by being the quietest garbage disposal around (approximately 45 decibels, while other models don’t go below 60), and still being the company’s most powerful non-commercial model with a 1-horsepower motor. Additionally, it has all the anti-vibration technology the XTR does.

What stands out to me about Excel is its rare three-stage grinding technology, only found in InSinkErator’s line-up. Pair that with an automatic jam sensor and reverse grind technology, and jamming is nearly impossible.

There are two main drawbacks to this model: one, the high $400 price tag; second, its availability since the model has often been sold out lately. However, if you’re willing to invest in a top-notch garbage disposal that will last for years, you can’t do better than the Evolution Excel.

Pros

• Powerful 1-horsepower motor grinds up tough foods
• Removable sink baffle for easy cleaning
• Much quieter than other garbage disposals
• Quick and simple installation with detailed instructions

Cons

• Doesn’t come with a “cable connector” wire clamp
• May require extra effort to secure discharge tube

3. Editor’s pick: Moen GXS75C Host Series Garbage Disposal

List Price: $114.49

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Horsepower: 3/4 │ Noise: 65 dB approx. │ Warranty: 10 years │ Style: Continuous feed

Best known for its elegant faucets and shower fixtures, Moen has also made quite the splash in garbage disposals. The company has a large catalog for almost every need and budget, and when it comes to power, noise-reduction and quality, the Host Series GXS75C really has it all, and at an affordable price.

The GXS75C has a 3/4 horsepower motor that’s powerful enough to handle thick fruit peels from bananas and oranges, to cooked meat and even some light bones. With this power, I'd throw any scraps in without a single worry. Also, its speedy motor of 2700 RPM (as opposed to the more common 1725 RPM) helps with finer grinding, avoiding jamming and clogging.

Even with that kind of power, it’s pretty quiet, registering around 65 decibels. While there are some complaints about the noise, there are plenty of reviews saying the opposite. No garbage disposal is whisper-quiet, so take this feedback with a grain of salt.

It also comes with a lengthy 10-year warranty, longer than some more expensive models, so it’ll be grinding and disposing for a while before you have to worry about replacing it.

Pros

• Excellent value and 10-year warranty
• Easy-to-use tool to fix jams included
• Compatible with various mounting systems and wiring
• Removable splash guard for easy chamber access

Cons

• No double-grinding technology
• Installation instructions may be unclear

4. Best for low prices: Waste Maid 058 Economy Garbage Disposal

List Price: $109.99

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Horsepower: 1/2 │ Noise: 80 dB approx. │ Warranty: 2 years │ Style: Continuous feed

The Waste Maid 058’s main draw is just how budget-friendly it is, retailing for about $110 or less and often on sale for under $100. Don’t let the low price fool you, however. It has a powerful magnet motor with 1/2 horsepower, enough for most soft foods and even some tough fruits and peels. Magnet motors have the advantage of starting at full speed, so they avoid jams from leftover pieces or scraps thrown in before turning it on.

The 058 features a stainless steel grinder, which will last a long time without rusting, and comes with a two-year warranty. This coverage isn’t that long compared to other disposals in this list, but it’s about average for a model of this type. (When it comes to disposals, the general rule is that the lower the power, the shorter the warranty.)

If used correctly and carefully — meaning: don’t throw bones, whole potatoes or veggie stems down the sink — it should be durable enough to reduce your kitchen cleanup for years.

Nevertheless, if you want a more tried and tested brand, you can go with the Waste King L-1001 for about $20 more. Just be aware that it has the same amount of power and the same warranty period. If you want more power, even within the Waste Maid line-up, you’ll have to pay over double the price of the 058.

Pros

• Budget-friendly price at under $110
• Smaller, lighter and quieter than similar models
• Permanent magnet motor pulverizes food faster
• Rmovable rubber splash guard is removable for easy cleaning

Cons

• Not ideal for processing bones
• Black rubber strainer may cause slow drainage

5. Best value batch feed garbage disposal: Waste King L-5000TC Batch Feed Garbage Disposal

List Price: $161.75

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Horsepower: 3/4 │ Noise: Unknown │ Warranty: 10 years │ Style: Batch feed

If that one scene from Final Destination 2 still haunts you as it does me, worry not, there are plenty of safe garbage disposals out there for you. Batch feed garbage disposals require the lid to be put on in order to start, so there’s a greatly reduced risk of injury or accidents like grinding a fork.

Batch feed disposals are normally more expensive than their continuous feed counterparts. However, this Waste King L-5000TC offers tremendous value — at around $160 for a 3/4 horsepower magnet motor, and a 10-year warranty from a reputable manufacturer. All the internal components are made of stainless steel too, so that’s one less worry for the long term. If I were in the market for a batch disposal, this would be the product I buy.

Alternately, there are higher-end batch feed models, like the InSinkErator Evolution Cover Control, which can go for around $300, but if you want more power, the Waste King L-8000TC (about $200) is also a great choice for 1-horsepower of strength.

Pros

• Very easy and reliable operation
• Large chamber size
• Batch feed feature prevents utensils from falling in
• Heavy-duty and quality build

Cons

• More expensive than most continuous feed disposals
• Deep chamber makes reaching debris difficult

6. Most power for price: Waste King Legend L-8000

List Price: $149.99

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Horsepower: 1 │ Noise: 105 dB approx. │ Warranty: 20 years │ Style: Continuous feed

Not to be confused with the L-8000TC batch feed model mentioned above, the Waste King L-8000 is a continuous feed model with an impressive 1-horsepower motor and an incredible 20-year warranty.

Other than offering plenty of power for less than $150 (and sometimes for under $100 when on sale), the model’s extensive warranty is combined with high-quality customer service. Reviewers — even formerly disgruntled ones — praise the company’s efficient and straightforward technical support when they've asked for repairs or replacements under the warranty. At last check, the L-8000 has over 10,000 reviews with 4.5-star ratings on Amazon, and it’s no surprise why it’s so popular.

On the downside, there’s the Waste King’s extremely loud 105-decibel noise reading. However, noise is the price you’ll pay for power on almost any model in this price range.

Pros

• Impressive 20-year warranty
• EZ-mount hardware for a simple, easy install
• Power cord and sink stopper included
• Smaller drain hole for better water flow control

Cons

• Loud operation at over 100 decibels
• Rubber gasket only fits stainless steel sinks

People Also Asked

Q: What features should I look for when purchasing a garbage disposal?

A: When purchasing a garbage disposal, you should look for features such as the motor wattage, the grind stages and size of the disposal chamber, anti-jamming technology, corrosion resistance, noise-dampening technology and easy installation.

Q: Are there any safety considerations to keep in mind when using a garbage disposal?

A: Yes, there are several safety considerations to keep in mind when using a garbage disposal. You should never place your hands inside of the disposal and always exercise caution when running it. Additionally, you should never put stringy materials or grease into the disposal as this can cause clogging or jamming. Always turn off the power to the disposal before attempting to unclog it.

Q: How often should I replace my garbage disposal?

A: On average, a garbage disposal will last anywhere from 8 to 15 years, depending on usage. To ensure that your garbage disposal is running optimally, it is recommended that you replace your unit every 10 years or so.

Q: How can I maintain and care for my garbage disposal?

A: To properly maintain and extend the life of your garbage disposal unit, make sure to regularly clean out any food residue or grime build-up in the components using warm water and dish soap. Additionally, run cold water as you are running the garbage disposal to ensure that all food particles are flushed away efficiently. It’s also recommended that you run a few slices of lemon or orange through your disposal every few weeks to help deodorize it.

Q: How much does it cost to install a garbage disposal?

A: The cost of installation for a garbage disposal will depend on the type of disposer you select and whether or not professional installation is required. Generally speaking, basic installation typically costs somewhere between $50-$150 depending on local labor rates and if any additional parts are needed as part of the installation process.

Why Trust Us

Our commitment to the consumer begins with product selection and ends with the last word we write in each article. Each garbage disposal is carefully vetted quantitatively through star ratings and the number of reviews qualitatively through careful examination of reviews and the features each one has to offer. Leveraging our team of bargain hunters, we’re also always sure to keep your budget in mind while we find the best garbage disposals on the market. Our team of experts is dedicated to accurately depicting the pros and cons of each garbage disposal, translating technical product specifications into information you can understand. Our mission is to ensure you get the best bang for your buck…or, in this case, the best garbage disposal for your buck.

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