8 Best Garbage Disposals (2025)
Upgrading your garbage disposal can be a quick, inexpensive way to upgrade your kitchen. In general, you can find smaller, less powerful garbage disposals for $75 to $125. Heavy-duty models that can handle tough jobs typically cost around $150 to $300 or more.
For most homeowners, our top garbage disposal recommendation is the InSinkErator Evolution for its durable build, powerful motor, and leak-proof protective liner. However, it is on the more expensive side—so we offer a few budget-friendly recommendations, as well.
Read more about how we rated garbage disposals and chose our top picks.
Comparing the Top Garbage Disposals
*Links below open to product retail page.
| Product | Installation | Feed Type | Motor | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Hardwired |
Continuous |
0.75 horsepower |
4 years |
|
|
Hardwired |
Continuous |
0.75 horsepower |
8 years |
|
|
Hardwired |
Continuous |
0.5 horsepower |
2 years |
|
|
Power cord |
Continuous |
1.25 horsepower |
10 years |
|
|
Power cord |
Batch Feed |
0.75 horsepower |
10 years |
|
|
Power cord |
Continuous |
0.5 horsepower |
2 years |
|
|
Power cord |
Continuous |
0.75 horsepower |
8 years |
|
|
Hardwired |
N/A |
N/A |
1 years |
Our Reviews of the Best Garbage Disposals
All of our recommendations will be an upgrade from the builder-grade garbage disposal you likely have under your sink. As you read through the list, make sure to take your budget and sewer system into account.
Best Overall
InSinkErator Evolution
For most homeowners, the Insinkerator Evolution strikes the perfect balance between price and quality. You get most of the features of a commercial-grade garbage disposal—a powerful motor, three-stage grinder, and sound-dampening insulation—at a significantly lower cost. The Evolution is also built for the DIY installer, with a special adapter that easily connects to your home’s wiring. If you’re looking to upgrade from an entry-level garbage disposal, the Evolution is a good place to start.
Our Testing Experience
Fast Facts:
- Width: 8 inches
- Length: 12.1 inches
- Motor: 0.75 horsepower
- Warranty: 4 years
- Quieter than most other garbage disposals
- Three-stage grind technology prevents clogging
- Rust-resistant
- Does not include a power cord
- More expensive than an entry-level disposal
Good for: Homeowners looking for a heavy-duty garbage disposal that can handle all types of scraps.
What People Are Saying About The InSinkErator Evolution
Our team found that those who left positive reviews for this product said that it had a slim design, strong motor, and a quiet operation. However, we also noted that those who left negative reviews complained that it was difficult to mount under a faucet and a few had issues with the product rusting quicker than they anticipated.
Customer Reviews
“I knew that if I wanted a quieter disposal I needed to spend a little extra. This disposal is easily the finest we have ever had. It is VERY quiet and it eats up anything we put into it effortlessly with little noise. Highly recommended.” —Teeville via Amazon
“Works well, is *very* quiet, and was easy for a novice to install with a helper. My wife commented that she wished it was louder so she really knew it was on. I’m a little nervous about the rust that I’m seeing after only having it for a few weeks. I’m not sure what’s normal, but I think it’s really early to see any rusting – guess time will tell if it matters.” —David S. via Amazon
Best for Septic Systems
InSinkErator Evolution Septic Assist
This septic tank-friendly disposal uses a replaceable cartridge loaded with natural bioorganisms to break down foods and keep your septic system running smoothly. We were also impressed that it deodorizes the sink and drain with a citrus scent.
Our Testing Experience
Fast Facts:
- Width: 11 inches
- Length: 16 inches
- Motor: 0.75 horsepower
- Horsepower: 8 years
- Two-stage grinding mechanism
- Quick-lock sink mount is easy to install
- Quieter than most competitors
- Does not include a power cord
- Must be hardwired
Good for: Homeowners with septic systems that need to ensure their disposal can fully break down foods.
What People Are Saying About The InSinkErator Evolution Septic Assist
We saw that customers who left positive reviews for this product often liked that it worked quietly, ground food quickly, and had a durable design. However, some reviewers found it challenging to operate, while others had issues with the bio charge pump not working properly.
Customer Reviews
“This is a well-built disposal. It does what it’s supposed to do, is remarkably quiet, and comes with excellent installation instructions. Highly recommended.” —Mike J. via Amazon
“I’m now three years in with this disposal and the biggest problem is the Bio-Charge septic component. Leaking aside, about 6 months in, it completely stopped pumping the enzymes. So I’ve had the same canister in there for 2 years. Every time I try to troubleshoot it, it leaks everywhere.” —Heisenberg via Amazon
Best for Small Spaces
InSinkErator Badger 5
This tiny disposal still boasts a powerful motor while fitting in tight areas. It’s not as quiet or efficient as other InSinkErator models, but that’s the trade-off you make with crowded cabinets.
Our Testing Experience
Fast Facts:
- Width: 6.3 inches
- Length: 11.5 inches
- Motor: 0.5 horsepower
- Warranty: 2 years
- Comes with a wrench and other tools and components for installation
- Compact design is just over 6 inches wide, compared to similar models that typically run 8 inches wide.
- Durable motor is built with galvanized steel components that are built to last
- Louder than other InSinkerator products
- Made of galvanized steel, which is more prone to rusting than stainless steel
Good for: People with limited under-sink space looking for a compact design that doesn’t lack power.
What People Are Saying About The InSinkErator Badger 5
We noticed that happy customers said this product was easy to install, made of high-quality materials, and long-lasting. However, we also saw that some dissatisfied customers said it was prone to leaks.
Customer Reviews
“This is the fourth unit I have purchased. The Badger 5 works well, but it has a terrible corrosion problem which causes it to leak after a few years, even though it is still working properly. One had a motor fail, it just hummed even though it turned freely, so I think the start capacitor failed. The company needs to use better materials, stainless steel instead of metal that starts corroding the first day the unit is installed. One can get a more expensive unit with stainless steel construction, but the price is more than double of the Badger 5.” —Gregor. via Amazon
Most Durable
Waste Maid WM-658-3B
This disposal is made from durable stainless steel and has a magnetic silver guard that catches most metal objects like silverware before they fall into the disposal. At 1.25 horsepower, the Waste Maid has the most powerful motor on this list, making it particularly adept at grinding items like bones, fruit pits, and fibrous vegetables like carrots or celery.
Our Testing Experience
Fast Facts:
- Width: 8.7 inches
- Length: 15.5 inches
- Motor: 1.25 horsepower
- Warranty: 10 years
- Simple to install, requiring only three bolts
- Anti-odor technology keeps bad smells away
- Can sometimes be slow to drain
- Is bulky
Good for: Customers looking for a sturdy disposal that will last for years and won’t corrode.
What People Are Saying About The Waste Maid WM-658-3B
When looking through customer reviews for this product, we noted that several customers liked that this disposal was highly durable, had a quiet operation for its size, and was easy to install. However, we also found that some reviewers found that it had weaker suction than anticipated, and others said it arrived missing parts.
Customer Reviews
“Easy to install, had everything I needed to install it. Fit without leaks, and quietly grinds up food. Well worth the money, as it’s inexpensive and does what it’s supposed to.” —Johnny via Amazon
“[…]It’s heavy & getting the collar lined up and connected while holding it is a real task, but it worked. It seems to operate fine. You really need to put the rubber baffle in, though, since it dramatically dampens the noise. The initial startup noise is unnerving, without it. Having read through the entire instruction booklet before starting, I was still mystified by the two heavy metal semicircles set into the styrofoam in the top of the box. There was absolutely no mention or illustration of them in the manual. Even a friend who was assisting couldn’t figure out what they were for, but the unit was obviously complete and operational, so he left. After he left, I was looking at them and decided to pull them out and see if I could figure out what they were for. They’re very strong magnets and as I removed them, they snapped together, breaking one of them. Now, the broken parts won’t go together as they now magnetically repel each other. I deduced they’re a collar, but it’s useless now.” —J. Knouse via Amazon
Best for Odor Control
Moen GXS75C Host Series
Even the best garbage disposals can get smelly when food gets trapped in the works. Not the Moen. We love its proprietary tech that pushes your sink water through more areas of the disposal, helping all that gunk get washed down the drain.
Our Testing Experience
Fast Facts:
- Width: 9.7 inches
- Length: 14.9 inches
- Motor: 0.75 horsepower
- Warranty: 10 years
- Motor immediately operates at full speed, helping eliminate jams
- Fits most existing assemblies, including those from other brands
- Comes with a 10-year warranty, more than most other top brands
- Larger than other top-rated garbage disposals
- Doesn’t fit with all existing plumbing systems
Good for: Customers looking for a high-quality garbage disposal that’s backed by an unbeatable warranty.
What People Are Saying About The Moen GXS75C Host Series
Our team noticed that satisfied customers often said the removable splash guard on this product was easy to remove for cleaning, and the chamber and motor could handle a large quantity of food. Customers liked that this product didn’t require a lot of tools for installation. However, we saw some customers that said they had to push food into the grinder manually. Other unhappy customers disliked that it was loud.
Customer Reviews
“My 1/2 HP Insinkerator failed after 8 years. Not too bad, but I wanted to get something with more power and I found this Moen 3/4 HP. The 1st thing I noticed was the great quality, it just looks nice and less like a plain electric motor. The install was easy and once hooked up, it really is a lot quieter than my previous insinkerator. Time will tell how long it lasts, but it has a 10-year warranty vs the 2 year of Insinkerator. So far it is powerful, quiet and when looking under the sink for some soap, it looks really nice too. ” —Kevin via Amazon
“I paid more specifically for a model that I thought would be quieter than my old one without any sound insulation. Unfortunately, it’s just not worth it if the primary reason you’re considering this model is the reduced noise. First, there’s this annoying clicking sound every time you start it up. Supposedly, it’s just how it works, but annoying nonetheless. Second, it’s still loud. Whatever sound insulation they put in there just doesn’t work. So it’s just a fail when it comes to my main reason for buying this.” —silly goose via Amazon
Best Budget Pick
Waste King L-1001
We like this garbage disposal as an affordable way to prevent kitchen clogs. It has a rust- and corrosion-proof grind chamber, and, despite a weaker motor, it’s still plenty powerful enough to break down small food scraps with ease.
Our Testing Experience
Fast Facts:
- Width: 5.3 inches
- Length: 12.8 inches
- Motor: 0.5 horsepower
- Warranty: 2 years
- Has a corrosion-resistant polymer grind chamber
- Has a compact design that’s just 5.25 inches wide
- Is equipped with an accessible front-mounted reset button
- Has weaker horsepower than some other disposals
- Is noisy, according to several customer reviews
Good for: Homeowners seeking a compact disposal that won’t break the bank.
What People Are Saying About The Waste King L-1001
We found that those who were happy with this disposal said that it was quiet, featured a powerful motor, and had a compact design. However, we saw some unhappy customers who said it was difficult to install and its drain size was smaller than expected.
Customer Reviews
“[…]I haven’t had this product for months yet to determine long-term performance, but for an initial weekend of performance, I can say the L-8000 is surprisingly quiet and does not vibrate nearly as much as I expected. Have had no problems crushing small to large food particles; accidentally had a chicken bone drop in there, and figured what the heck, let’s try it out – and the L-8000 didn’t have a fuss grinding it down.” —Buy Once, Cry Once via Amazon
“I think it’s going to be fine; WK is a reliable disposal. Most difficult installation I’ve had out of maybe six. The locking nibs and ring are difficult. I used vegetable oil on the rubber ring at the top to be able to position the outlet where it needed to be after the locking ring was started. I also used a scissor jack from the car to lift the unit into level position so I could get both nubs into the little slots they had to fit into while I started the locking ring. There just isn’t room for two sets of hands to be under my sink cabinet at the same time. My old Kenmore locking ring was so easy compared to this one.” —Granddad via Amazon
Best Corded Model
Waste King L-3200
Most of the garbage disposals we recommend need to be hard-wired into your home’s electric. Not this one. If your setup requires a plug-in model, the Waste King L-3200 is our top choice for you. With a high-powered motor and twist-and-lock installation, we find that this garbage disposal is easy for any homeowner to install and use.
Our Testing Experience
Fast Facts:
- Width: 7.8 inches
- Length: 13.8 inches
- Motor: 0.75 horsepower
- Warranty: 8 years
- Comes with a power cord
- Has a removable splash guard for convenient cleaning
- Is made with rust-resistant stainless steel components
- Not designed to grind raw meat or fish
- Won’t work with hard-wired systems
Good for: Homeowners with large sinks that are budget-conscious.
What People Are Saying About The Waste King L-3200
Our research showed that those who were happy with this disposal liked its mounting system, low noise level, and easy-to-follow instructions. However, dissatisfied customers that we saw didn’t like that the stopper was made from plastic instead of more durable steel.
Customer Reviews
“Works great, fairly easy install (1 hour or less), much quieter than my Insinkerator Badger, much more powerful than the Badger (3/4HP instead of 1/3 HP), replaced 3 bolt with EZ mount without any need for an adapter kit.” —S. North via Amazon
“… I’m mostly disappointed with the quality of the drain insert. The Insinkerator was all metal while the Waste King is mostly plastic with a small metal ring around the top. The metal is so soft it actually dented from being hit with a wooden spoon. It’s also just slightly smaller in diameter than the original and I have to clean around the edges with a brush to get the any build-up. And the black gasket shows through in little spots. I adjusted it multiple times during installation but the sun insert is just too small. Next time I will spend more money on the better brand. But this one will perform if your budget is really tight. Not sure for how long though.” —EricatheGinger via Amazon
Best for Composting
Sepura Composting Garbage Disposal
This unique garbage disposal comes at a premium price, but composters may find the benefits well worth it. Rather than grinding and flushing food scraps, the Sepura collects food scraps into a sealed, odorless compost bin. Since there are no blades, it is also safer than most disposals.
Our Testing Experience
Fast Facts: (Bullet points that highlight vital information):
- Width: 11.5 inches
- Length: 17.5 inches
- Motor: N/A
- Warranty: 1 year
- Septic-safe
- Odor-free design
- Wireless button can be installed on your sink to trigger the disposal
- Expensive
- Since it does not actually dispose of food, it requires an extra step to get rid of the waste
Good for: Environmentally conscious people who love the idea of a composting disposal.
What People Are Saying About The Sepura Composting Garbage Disposal
On Sepura’s website, customers raved about this product’s ability to reduce kitchen waste and the convenience of its easy setup. Several others were also impressed with its odorless operation. However, there were a couple of reviewers who said it was challenging to install and clogged the drain easily.
Customer Reviews
“Love the convenience it brings to our kitchen cleanup routine. We also live on septic, which always made us apprehensive about using a garbage disposal, but Sepura seemed to be exactly what we needed. Now we wash food down the sink and know none of it goes into our septic tank because we see it in the compost bin.” —Barbara K. via sepurahome.com
“I really wanted to like this product but it just hasn’t lived up to what I was hoping for. The installation process was tricky (had to get a plumber to install sideways under my apron front sink) and connecting to wifi was challenging. Once installed I have clogged it multiple times and have had to jam a spatula down my drain to jimmy the scraps free. It has been more of a hassle than a benefit at this point, BUT I do still believe that they’re on to something. I’m going to keep using it for now as support has informed me that some of my issues can be solved by software, but I’m not totally confident in Sepura for the time being.” — Catherine J. via sepurahome.com
What To Know Before Buying a Garbage Disposal
Before deciding on the right garbage disposal for you, consider the product’s dimensions, horsepower, and grinding method. Here’s more on the most important factors to consider when buying a garbage disposal.
Garbage Disposal Dimensions
A garbage disposal’s dimensions impact its compatibility with your kitchen sink. For example, our research shows that larger models might not fit in the cabinet under all kitchen sinks. While purchasing a compact garbage disposal removes the hassle of fitting the model under your sink, most compact garbage disposals sacrifice power for size.
Horsepower
A garbage disposal’s horsepower influences the type of food it can grind. For example, we found that a 0.25-horsepower disposal can tackle meat trimmings and other soft food, while a 0.75- or 1-horsepower disposal can grind tougher particles, such as melon rinds.
Grinding Technology
Garbage disposals are split into two different types: continuous-feed models and batch-feed models. Continuous-feed disposals run continuously once their power is turned on, making it easy for users to throw large amounts of food into their grind chambers.
Batch-feed garbage disposals are rarer, but they are available. They’re generally considered safer because they can only run when their cover is on securely. While this prevents mishaps, it also limits the amount of food that can be ground at once.
Materials
Most residential garbage disposals have grinding chambers that we saw are made from stainless or galvanized steel.
If you can afford the extra cost, we recommend stainless steel grind components because they are more resistant to corrosion and rust. While galvanized steel has a rust-resistant coating, the metal starts to rust as soon as this coating chips.
You’ll also find plastic grinding chambers. Though affordable and corrosion-resistant, plastic eventually cracks.
Extra Garbage Disposal Features
Some high-quality garbage disposals have unique features that help them stand out from other models. Some features our research found to look for include:
Anti-Jamming
Some disposals are designed to prevent larger food particles from jamming the device. This can help your disposal last longer and allow you to put more food in at once.
Plug-In Power Cord
Some non-hard-wired disposals come with a power cord, making them easier to install and preventing you from buying your own cord. If you need to buy your own power cord, we find that it will likely cost between $15-$20 dollars.
Garbage Disposal Noise Reduction
Garbage disposals can be noisy, but some models include noise-reduction technology that can keep the noise level minimal or even whisper-quiet. Typically, disposals we’ve seen with more RPM and horsepower will have louder operations unless they are designed to reduce noise.
Warranty
The warranty of a disposal varies based on the brand and model. We find that anything with a shorter than eight-year warranty is considered below-average. Some warranties will extend well past 10 or even 15 years, giving you added peace of mind.
Garbage Disposal Brands
We noticed a few select brands dominate garbage disposal sales. Most top-selling models come from InSinkErator, Waste King, Moen, or Waste Maid. These are well-established and trusted brands.
How Do You Install a Garbage Disposal?
Installing a garbage disposal can be simple or difficult, depending on how the area under your sink is set up. Corded disposals that come with three-bolt mounting hardware are relatively easy to install for DIYers, but most disposals must be hard-wired.
Contacting a plumber to help with the installation is one option. Garbage disposal installation cost varies depending on the type of disposal and overall labor costs. However, we find it typically costs around $400 to $500.
If you have the tools, you can try to install a garbage disposal yourself. The video below gives step-by-step instructions on how you can install your own garbage disposal.
Garbage Disposal Dos and Don’ts
A backed-up garbage disposal can turn a cumbersome meal cleanup into a nightmare. To get the most use out of your new disposal, here are some important tips we gathered that will help you maintain your garbage disposal.
Dos
- Cut or tear large food particles into smaller pieces before loading them into the disposal.
- Keep your garbage disposal clean.
- Run your disposal regularly to prevent rust and corrosion.
Don’ts
- Don’t put non-food items into the garbage disposal
- Don’t overload your disposal by putting too much food down at once.
- Don’t stick your hand down the disposal to remove a jammed item without turning off the power first.
The Bottom Line: Our Top Picks
Garbage disposals can reduce odors, save time, and help you become more energy-efficient. While replacing your existing garbage disposal system may seem like a hassle, it is necessary if you find that you’re smelling strange odors, hearing bizarre noises, or experiencing frequent clogs with your garbage disposal system.
When choosing the right system for you, think about how much food waste you typically have and what foods most commonly go down your disposal. Also consider your kitchen and sink setup, and if you want to compost or if you use a septic system.
Top Garbage Disposals
*Links below open to product retail page.
- Best Garbage Disposal Overall: InSinkErator Evolution
- Best for Septic Systems: InSinkErator Evolution Septic Assist
- Best for Shallow Sinks: InSinkErator Badger 5
- Most Durable: Waste Maid WM-658-3B
- Best Brand Warranty: Moen GXS75C Host Series
- Best Value: Waste King L-1001
- Best for Large Sinks: Waste King L-3200
- Best for Composting: Sepura Composting Garbage Disposal
Garbage Disposal FAQs
How does a garbage disposal work?
Garbage disposals mount to the underside of your kitchen sink drain to catch solid food as it enters the drain. Once the food is in the disposal’s grinding chamber, you turn on the device to grind the food into small particles. These particles easily pass through your plumbing pipes instead of causing clogs.
How long do garbage disposals last?
We find that most garbage disposals last around ten years. If your model has difficulty grinding food, makes more noise than usual, or frequently clogs, it might be time for a replacement.
How do I use a garbage disposal?
To use a garbage disposal, we recommend running cold water in your sink before turning the disposal on. Once the device is on, gradually drop food into the drain. When you’ve finished disposing of the food, turn off the device. Leave the water on for a few more seconds to flush your pipes.
How do I clean my garbage disposal?
To clean your garbage disposal, pour ice, lemon juice, or vinegar down the drain to clean the device naturally. You can also find various cleaning products on the market that unclog and freshen garbage disposals.
Our Methodology
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIY-ers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content. Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products in the home space, including power tools, outdoor equipment, major appliances, kitchen gadgets, electronics, and more that focus on product quality and helpfulness to our readers.
To provide our readers with the best recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
Initial Research: Our research process began by generating a list of garbage disposals with a significant number of verified buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
Expert Insights: To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
Final Product Selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we compared each model’s feature set to create a final shortlist, selecting the best-in-class options for various buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
Once we conclude our research, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.
Questions or Comments?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.