The best under sink bins are compact or pull-out systems designed to fit around pipes and plumbing. Slim, side-mounted, or door-mounted options work best in Australian kitchens where cabinet space is limited and layouts vary.
Introduction
An under sink rubbish bin is a concealed waste bin installed inside the cabinet beneath your kitchen sink. Most models are specifically engineered to work around existing plumbing — including P-traps, supply lines, and waste pipes — using low-profile frames, adjustable mounting brackets, or door-hanging systems that avoid the floor space entirely. In most Australian kitchens with standard 600mm sink cabinets, no plumbing changes are needed to install one.
The space under your sink is some of the most underused real estate in your entire kitchen. It sits right where you need it — at the heart of your prep and clean-up zone — yet most Australians fill it with a tangle of cleaning products and never think twice about it. The biggest reason? The pipes.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what’s under there, which under sink bin types work best for different pipe configurations, how to measure correctly, and our top product picks for Australian kitchens.
Note: If you’re looking for the best under sink rubbish bins for small kitchens, the key is choosing compact, space-saving designs that fit around plumbing without wasting cabinet space.
Best Under Sink Bin for Pipes
- Tight space → Door-mounted bin
- Good clearance → Pull-out bin
- Narrow cabinet → Swing-out bin
- No installation → Freestanding bin
What’s Actually Under Your Sink? Know Your Plumbing First
Before you can choose the right under sink bin, you need to understand what you’re working around. The space beneath a standard Australian kitchen sink isn’t empty — it contains several plumbing components, each taking up height, depth, or width in the cabinet.
Here are the key components you’ll encounter:
- The P-trap (U-bend): The curved section of pipe directly below the sink drain. In most Australian kitchens, the base of the P-trap sits 250–350mm above the cabinet floor. This is your single biggest obstacle — it determines the maximum height of any bin that must sit on the cabinet floor.
- Waste pipe: The horizontal pipe that runs from the P-trap to the wall. It typically runs across the back or side of the cabinet at mid-height, taking up depth space.
- Hot and cold supply lines: Flexible braided hoses connecting the water supply to your tap. These usually run vertically up the back of the cabinet and take up minimal space but must be factored into width.
- Shut-off valves: Small valves on the supply lines, usually positioned 100–150mm from the cabinet floor. These can block floor-level bin frames if positioned in the middle of the cabinet.
- Dishwasher drain hose (if applicable): If you have a dishwasher, its drain hose typically enters the cabinet from the left or right side at mid-height. This further reduces usable depth on one side of the cabinet.
Standard Australian kitchen sink cabinets are 600mm wide. However, once you account for pipe clearances, the usable space is often 350–450mm of actual width and less than 350mm of clear height below the P-trap. Measuring before you buy is non-negotiable.
Quick tip: Take photos of the inside of your cabinet on your phone. They’re invaluable when comparing product specs online, and you can easily check dimensions against the real layout without going back and forth to the kitchen.
What Type of Under Sink Kitchen Bin Fits Around Plumbing?
The good news is that several under sink kitchen bin types are purpose-built for pipe-heavy spaces. Each takes a different approach — the right one for you depends on your specific cabinet layout and available clearance.
Under sink bins in Australian kitchens must work within a 600mm standard cabinet width. The P-trap typically sits 250–350mm from the cabinet floor — this is the critical clearance measurement. Door-mounted bins avoid the floor entirely and work in virtually any layout. Pull-out bins need at least 320mm of height clearance below the lowest pipe. Brands like Wesco and Hailo produce models specifically engineered for shallow, pipe-obstructed spaces, with some requiring as little as 325mm of cabinet depth.
1. Door-Mounted Bins
Best for: Any kitchen where floor clearance below the P-trap is limited.
A door-mounted bin attaches directly to the inside face of your cabinet door rather than sitting on the floor. Because it hangs off the door, it completely avoids the floor space — meaning your P-trap height and waste pipe position are entirely irrelevant. This makes it the most flexible option for awkward plumbing layouts.
Door-mounted bins typically hold 5–20 litres, suit food scraps, compost, or light daily waste, and open automatically when the cabinet door is opened. Some models use over-door hooks (no tools required), while others use screws for a more secure, permanent fit.
Clearance needed: None — hangs on the door regardless of what’s below. Ideal for: Tight plumbing, small kitchens, renters (hook-style versions need no drilling), single or double bowl sinks.
2. Low-Height Pull-Out Bins
Best for: Cabinets with good clearance below the P-trap (320mm+).
A pull-out bin mounts to the cabinet floor on runners and slides forward when the door opens. If you’re unsure which configuration suits your needs, read our complete guide to pull out kitchen bin types, including single, double, and triple bin systems.
These offer the best capacity — typically 20–64 litres — and are ideal for households that need to separate waste and recycling in one unit.
For under-sink installation, you specifically need a low-height pull-out model. The bin frame must be shorter than the height from your cabinet floor to the base of the P-trap (typically 250–350mm). Standard pull-out bins are too tall for most sink cabinets. Check the frame height against your clearance measurement before purchasing.
Clearance needed: Minimum 320mm height below the P-trap; 325–450mm depth from front to pipe. Ideal for: 600mm+ cabinets, high-volume households, kitchens where plumbing sits to one side leaving clear floor space on the other.
3. Swing-Out / Pivot Bins
Best for: Narrow cabinets or single-bowl sink configurations.
Swing-out bins use a pivot mechanism — the bin swings forward and out when the door opens, then folds back in to close. Unlike traditional pull-outs, they don’t use a floor-mounted rail system, which makes them more forgiving of mid-cabinet obstructions. They offer more capacity than a door-mounted bin with slightly less clearance requirement than a standard pull-out.
Clearance needed: Minimum 280mm height below the P-trap. Ideal for: Narrow or awkwardly piped cabinets, 300–450mm wide cabinets, single-bowl sinks.
4. Slim Freestanding Bins
Best for: Renters or anyone who doesn’t want to install anything.
If installation isn’t an option — or if your pipes genuinely leave no usable floor space — a slim freestanding bin can simply be placed inside the cabinet beside the pipe run. No mounting, no drilling, no brackets required. Measure the gap beside your pipes and choose a bin that fits that width.
Clearance needed: Equal to the bin’s own height. Ideal for: Renters, short-term solutions, very tight pipe configurations where no frame-based bin will fit.
Under Sink Bin Types Compared
| Bin Type | Min Height Needed | Avoids Floor Space? | Best For | Capacity |
| Door-mounted | None — hangs on door | Yes | Tight plumbing, any layout | 5–20L |
| Low-height pull-out | 320mm below P-trap | No | Good clearance, high volume | 20–64L |
| Swing-out / pivot | 280mm below P-trap | No | Narrow cabinets, single bowl | 10–30L |
| Freestanding slim | Equal to bin height | No | Renters, no-install setups | 5–25L |
How Do You Measure Space for an Under Sink Bin?
Measuring correctly before you buy is the single most important step. These five measurements will tell you exactly which bin types are compatible with your cabinet.
Step 1 — Measure the cabinet interior width. Measure wall-to-wall inside the cabinet. Note whether pipes (especially supply lines) run down the centre or towards one side — this affects the usable width for a pull-out frame.
Step 2 — Measure usable height below the P-trap. This is your most critical measurement. From the cabinet floor, measure vertically up to the base (lowest point) of the P-trap. This number is the maximum height of any floor-mounted bin frame. Most under sink bins designed for sink cabinets require a minimum of 320mm of clearance.
Step 3 — Measure the depth. From the front edge of the cabinet (behind the door) to the back wall. Note where the waste pipe protrudes — this reduces the usable depth. Most under sink bins require 325–450mm of depth clearance from front to pipe.
Step 4 — Check the position of supply lines and shut-off valves. Note whether these run left, right, or centre. A bin frame that would sit directly in front of the shut-off valves will block access — this matters for both usability and plumbing maintenance.
Step 5 — Check for a dishwasher drain hose. If you have a dishwasher connected under the sink, identify which side the hose enters and at what height. This limits the usable space on that side of the cabinet.
Write it down: Width × Height clearance × Depth × Pipe positions. Then compare these numbers directly against product specifications before adding to cart.
Our Top Under Sink Bin Picks for Australian Kitchens
Best Pull-Out Option: Wesco Low-Height Kitchen Bins
Wesco is one of Europe’s most trusted kitchen bin brands, and their pull-out range includes low-height models built specifically for under-sink installation. Precision steel runners, removable plastic buckets for easy cleaning, and modular single or double compartment configurations make Wesco the most popular pull-out choice for Australian kitchens.
The Wesco W64 Double Pull-Out Bin (64 litres) requires approximately 403mm of cabinet depth — ideal for standard 600mm Australian sink cabinets where plumbing runs to the rear. For tighter configurations, smaller Wesco single-bucket models offer reduced depth requirements while maintaining the same quality build.
Best Door-Mounted Option: Hailo Door-Mount Bin Systems
Hailo’s door-mounted bin systems are the go-to solution when floor space is completely blocked by plumbing. They attach to the inside of the cabinet door, open automatically when the door is pulled, and are entirely independent of what’s happening with your pipes below.
Available in single and double bucket configurations with removable inner buckets, Hailo door-mounted bins suit cabinet door widths from 300mm upwards and require zero floor clearance. They are also one of the cleanest solutions available — no reaching into a dark cupboard, no lifting lids, no odour escape between empties.
Premium Renovation Option: Blum TANDEMBOX Integrated Drawer Systems
If you’re renovating or building a new kitchen, a Blum TANDEMBOX drawer system with integrated bins is the gold-standard solution. These full drawer systems enclose bins inside a soft-close drawer that is completely concealed, smooth, quiet, and built to outlast the kitchen itself.
Available in widths from 300mm to 600mm, with total bin capacities from 20L to 84L, Blum systems eliminate the under-sink measurement challenge entirely — the pipe clearance is engineered during kitchen design. If you’re investing in a new kitchen, this is the solution you’ll never need to think about again.
No-Install Option: Slim Freestanding Bins
For renters or anyone who prefers not to drill, a slim freestanding bin positioned beside the pipe run inside the cabinet is an instant, zero-effort solution. Measure the gap beside your P-trap and supply lines, choose a bin that fits that width, and you’re done.
Before You Buy — 3 Things Worth Checking
- Soft-close vs standard runners: If you’re choosing a pull-out bin, soft-close runners are worth the small price premium. They prevent the bin from banging against the cabinet frame and significantly extend the life of both the runners and the cabinet door.
- Single vs dual compartment: If you separate general waste from recycling (or compost), a dual-compartment under sink bin means one bin installation handles both streams. Wesco double bins and Hailo dual-bucket systems make this seamless.
- Runner clearance at the front: Pull-out bins need space at the front of the cabinet for the runners to extend fully. Measure the door thickness and hinge position — leave at least 20mm of clearance between the fully extended bin and the cabinet front edge.
Do Under Sink Bins Work with Plumbing in the Way?
Yes, under sink bins are specifically designed to work with plumbing in place. Modern solutions such as slim pull out bins, door-mounted bins, and compact systems are built to fit around pipes without affecting functionality.
Door-mounted bins work regardless of pipe position — they hang on the door and never touch the floor. Low-height pull-out bins fit when there is at least 320mm of clear height below the P-trap and pipes sit to one side. In most Australian kitchens, the right under sink rubbish bin can be installed without moving or modifying any plumbing at all.
The key is selecting a bin that matches your cabinet layout and leaves enough clearance for smooth movement.
Best Under Sink Bin Solutions for Australian Kitchens
Australian kitchens come in all shapes and sizes, which is why flexibility is key when choosing the right bin. These space-saving kitchen bins are ideal for modern homes where every cabinet needs to work harder, especially in under sink areas where plumbing limits usable space.
Modern kitchen bins for under sink cabinets now offer:
- Soft-close sliding mechanisms — quiet, smooth operation that protects runners and cabinet doors for long-term daily use
- Durable, easy-clean materials — moisture-resistant plastics and powder-coated steel built specifically for under-sink conditions
- Multiple compartment options for waste separation — dual-bucket systems let you sort general waste and recycling in a single installation
- Space-saving designs for compact cabinetry — low-profile frames and door-mount systems engineered to work around real-life pipe configurations
At The Storage Online Shop, you’ll find a wide range of kitchen bins designed specifically for Australian cabinetry. From compact under sink bin systems to advanced pull-out solutions, every product is built to maximise space while working around real-life plumbing setups.
We stock trusted brands including Wesco, Hailo, Hafele, and Blum — known for their durability, smart design, and ease of installation in standard Australian sink cabinets.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When choosing an under sink kitchen bin, avoid these common errors:
- Ignoring pipe placement — always check whether your P-trap, waste pipe, and supply lines leave enough clearance for your chosen bin type before purchasing
- Buying a bin that’s too large — a bin that looks like it should fit on paper can still be blocked by a shut-off valve or dishwasher hose; measure all five dimensions, not just width
- Not checking cabinet depth — depth from the cabinet front to the nearest pipe is the most commonly overlooked measurement, yet many bins fail at this point
- Forgetting runner clearance for pull-out bins — pull-out bins need extra space at the front of the cabinet for the runners to extend fully; allow at least 20mm behind the door
- Choosing cheap, low-quality materials — under-sink environments are damp and heavily used; low-quality runners and buckets fail quickly; invest in a reputable brand the first time
Taking the time to choose the right bin will ensure long-term convenience and performance.
Quick Buying Checklist
Before purchasing your under sink rubbish bin, make sure you have checked:
- Cabinet interior width (wall-to-wall)
- Height clearance below the P-trap (minimum 320mm for pull-outs)
- Available depth from cabinet front to nearest pipe
- Pipe position — left, right, or centre
- Required bin capacity (litres)
- Whether you need single or dual compartment
- Installation method — door-mount, floor-mount, or freestanding
This simple checklist ensures you choose the right under sink rubbish bins the first time and avoid a costly return.
Why Choose The Storage Online Shop
We’re a South Australian family business based in Lonsdale SA, and we’ve been supplying kitchen storage and bin solutions to Australian homes for years. We stock genuine Wesco, Hailo, Blum, Hafele, and Hettich products — not grey-market alternatives — and every product listing includes detailed specifications so you can confirm fitment before buying.
- Free shipping on orders over $200 to most Australian postcodes
- Expert advice available Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm on (08) 8296 0044
- Over 1,000 products in stock across kitchen, bathroom, laundry and garage storage
- Detailed specs on every product — width, depth, height, and clearance requirements
- Trusted brands — Wesco, Hailo, Blum, Hafele, Elfa, Hettich and more
If you’re not sure which bin suits your cabinet, call us or send through the measurements from your five-step measuring guide — we’ll point you to the right product.
Final Thoughts
Under sink space doesn’t have to be wasted or messy. With the right under sink kitchen bin, you can turn even the most pipe-cluttered cabinet into a practical, hygienic, and organised part of your kitchen.
The key is matching the bin type to your layout:
- Pipes blocking most of the floor space? Choose a door-mounted bin — no clearance needed.
- Good height below the P-trap on one side? A Wesco low-height pull-out gives you the best capacity.
- Building or renovating? Invest in a Blum TANDEMBOX system and never think about it again.
- Renting or can’t drill? A hook-style door bin or slim freestanding bin needs zero installation.
Measure your clearance below the P-trap, note your pipe positions, and you’ll have everything you need to choose confidently. Choosing the right bin the first time saves you from costly returns and installation issues — especially in tight under sink spaces.
Explore our full range of under sink rubbish bins and kitchen bins designed for Australian cabinetry — with detailed specs to ensure the perfect fit the first time.
Questions about which bin suits your specific cabinet? Call us on (08) 8296 0044 — Mon to Fri, 10am–4pm — and our team will help you find the right fit.
Free shipping on orders over $200 to most Australian states. Unit 6/28 Liston Road, Lonsdale SA 5160.
FAQs – Under Sink Rubbish Bins
1. What type of bin fits under a sink with pipes?
The best bins for under sink cabinets with pipes are compact or slim pull out systems. These are designed to fit around plumbing without blocking movement, making them ideal for tight kitchen spaces.
2. Can you install a pull out bin under the sink?
Yes, you can install a pull out bin under the sink if there is enough space around the pipes. Most systems require a minimum cabinet width of around 300mm and work best when pipes are positioned to the side or rear.
3. How do you measure space for an under sink bin?
To measure for an under sink bin, check the internal cabinet width, depth, and height. Make sure to account for pipes and leave enough clearance for the bin to slide or open smoothly.
4. What is the best under sink kitchen bin for small cabinets?
The best option for small cabinets is a compact or slim under sink kitchen bin. Single compartment bins or narrow pull out systems are ideal as they maximise space without interfering with plumbing.
5. Do under sink rubbish bins work with plumbing in the way?
Yes, under sink bins are specifically designed to work around plumbing. Options like door-mounted bins, slim pull out systems, and compact bins allow you to use the space efficiently without obstruction.
6. How to fit a bin under a kitchen sink with pipes?
To fit a bin under a kitchen sink with pipes, choose a compact or adjustable system that can be installed beside or around the plumbing. Measuring your cabinet carefully and selecting a space-saving design is essential for a proper fit.
7. What are the best under sink rubbish bins for small kitchens?
The best under sink rubbish bins for small kitchens are space-saving models such as slim pull out bins or compact single bins. These designs maximise limited cabinet space while keeping waste organised and hidden.
8. Are under sink bins a good space-saving solution?
Yes, under sink bins are one of the most effective space-saving kitchen bins for modern homes. They utilise unused cabinet space and help keep your kitchen clean, organised, and clutter-free.
9. Which bins fit around plumbing under the sink?
Bins that fit around plumbing include slim pull out bins, door-mounted bins, and flexible bin systems. These are designed to work within irregular cabinet spaces without interfering with pipes.
10. Where can I buy under sink rubbish bins in Australia?
You can buy high-quality under sink rubbish bins in Australia from The Storage Online Shop, which offers a wide range of solutions designed specifically for Australian kitchen cabinetry.