The Once-Popular Kitchen Appliance That Deserves To Make A Comeback Today

You're hosting a dinner party, and the evening's culinary masterpiece leaves behind a mountain of trash. The sight of overflowing garbage ruins the mood and overall look of your space, even if you've picked the best spot in your kitchen for a trash can. Here's where a trash compactor comes in and saves the night: First introduced in the 1940s for commercial use and sold to households in the late 1960s, it is a handy device that crushes garbage into a smaller and more manageable size for space-saving disposal. 

It also became popular since it helped make waste disposal better in an era when the United States was facing a waste crisis. A Washington Post article in 1971 even called it "the most significant breakthrough in the area of home waste disposal problems since sink disposals." However, its usage decreased over the years due to the lack of space for it and the additional hassles, like the compressed trash bags being hard to carry. 

There's no better time for kitchen compactors to make a comeback, though, especially with cities implementing stricter trash rules in an effort to curb waste problems. A trash compactor, with a metal chamber and a powered ram that exerts force to compact garbage, can help reduce a trash bag by 75% of its original size. So, while a trash compactor may not have the advanced features many of today's smart appliances have, it still is the kind of unsung workhorse any household could benefit from. No one needs to be wrestling with overstuffed garbage bags!

There are two main varieties of trash compactors, and choosing one depends on your needs or preferences. A built-in compactor integrated into your existing cabinetry is ideal for homeowners seeking a more uniform kitchen design. However, this option requires dedicated space and professional installation, which may not suit smaller kitchens. A freestanding compactor, however, offers flexibility and portability, making it ideal for households without permanent installation options or the chance to remodel. 

Before buying one, note the hidden downsides to trash compactors. First, you'll need a special trash bag designed to withstand the compactor's force. These can be an added expense if you compare the price of compactor bags, like the 40-count Ultrasac Trash Compactor Bags, which go for about $20, to standard tall kitchen trash bags, like the 40-count Glad ForceFlex Trash Bags that sell for nearly $10. Second, remember that this appliance needs electricity, so it won't work during a blackout. This is something to consider if blackouts are common in your area. It's also important to avoid placing organic waste like food scraps in a trash compactor as it can cause odors before disposal. Otherwise, you'd have to find ways to clean and deodorize your trash can to combat funky smells.

There's no denying the convenience brought by using a kitchen compactor. It was, after all, popular for good reasons. But it's equally important to remember proper use and maintenance will ensure it operates efficiently and hygienically. You don't want headaches caused by a kitchen appliance that is supposed to make your life easier!