Choosing the right pull out bin is one of the smartest ways to improve kitchen organisation, reduce clutter, and keep rubbish hidden from view. Before buying any cabinet bin system, the most important question is: How much space do you actually need for a pull out bin?
Most pull out bins require a minimum cabinet width of 300mm, internal depth of 450mm, and height of 400mm. Larger double-bin systems may need 400mm to 450mm cabinets.
If you choose the wrong size, the bin may not fit, the runners may not operate smoothly, or plumbing may block installation. That is why measuring properly before buying is essential.
This guide explains exactly how much space you need for a pull out bin, how to measure your cabinet, and which size suits your kitchen best.
In This Guide
- Minimum cabinet width for a pull out bin
- Depth requirements for smooth installation
- Height clearance you need
- Best bin sizes by kitchen type
- Single vs double vs triple bin comparison
- Common buying mistakes to avoid
- Frequently asked questions
Why Pull Out Bins Are So Popular in Modern Kitchens
Freestanding rubbish bins take up floor space, collect dirt around the base, and often make kitchens feel cluttered. Pull out bins solve this problem by storing waste neatly inside cabinetry.
More Australian homeowners now choose pull out bins because they:
- Hide rubbish and recycling inside cabinets
- Create a cleaner kitchen appearance
- Free up valuable floor space
- Make recycling easier
- Improve hygiene and odour control
These benefits make pullout bins one of the most practical upgrades for both compact kitchens and larger family homes.
If you’re still deciding which style is best, read our full comparison guide: Kitchen Bin Types Compared: Pull Out vs Under Sink vs Cupboard Bins Complete Guide
What Is the Minimum Space Required for a Pull Out Bin?
The answer depends on three key measurements: Width, Depth & Height
Every kitchen cabinet is different, so checking all three dimensions is essential.
Minimum Width Required for a Pull Out Bin
Cabinet width is the most important measurement when selecting a pull out bin.
Most systems are designed to suit standard cabinet widths.
| Pull Out Bin Type | Minimum Cabinet Width |
| Compact Single Bin | 300mm |
| Standard Single Bin | 350mm |
| Double Bin System | 400mm |
| Premium Double Bin | 450mm |
| Multi-Bin Waste System | 500mm+ |
Why Width Matters
If the cabinet is too narrow:
- The frame won’t fit
- Runners may scrape cabinet walls
- Door brackets may not align
- Buckets may be too small for practical use
Real-World Example
A 300mm cabinet can fit many slimline pull out bins, but capacity is lower than wider models. For family kitchens, 400mm+ systems are often more practical.
For a full cabinet-by-cabinet breakdown, read: Pull Out Bin Sizes Cabinet Width Guide
Key Tip: Even a few millimetres of lost space can affect installation, so measuring internal width accurately is essential.
Minimum Depth Required for a Pull Out Bin
Depth determines whether the runners and bin frame can fully slide in and out.
Most pull out bins need:
- Minimum internal depth: 450mm
- Ideal depth: 500mm+
- Large premium systems: 520mm+
If your cabinet depth is shallow, choose a compact bin designed for smaller spaces.
Why Depth Matters
If depth is too shallow:
- Cabinet door may not close
- Runners may not extend smoothly
- Buckets may hit plumbing or back wall
- Installation becomes difficult
Under Sink Cabinets Need Extra Attention
Many under sink cabinets lose usable depth because of:
- Sink waste traps
- Hot/cold water hoses
- Filtration systems
- Electrical outlets
Because plumbing layouts vary, under sink cabinets should always be measured carefully before ordering a kitchen pull out bin.
Minimum Height Required for a Pull Out Bin
Height determines whether the buckets and frame can fit vertically.
| Bin Type | Minimum Height |
| Compact Single Bin | 350mm–400mm |
| Standard Bin | 420mm–480mm |
| Double Bin | 480mm–550mm |
| Large Premium System | 550mm+ |
Important Height Considerations
Allow extra room for:
- Bucket removal for cleaning
- Lid movement
- Top-mounted runners
- Sink bowl clearance
This is especially important under sinks where the bowl often reduces vertical space.
Pull Out Bin Size Chart (Quick Reference)
| Cabinet Width | Best For | Usually Suits | Notes |
| 300mm Cabinet | Apartments, compact kitchens, laundries, small households | Slimline single bin systems | Ideal for tight spaces where floor area is limited |
| 350mm Cabinet | Small family kitchens, standard rubbish storage | Larger single bins | Good balance between compact size and extra capacity |
| 400mm Cabinet | Waste + recycling, everyday family use | Double-bin systems | One of the most popular sizes in Australia |
| 450mm Cabinet | Larger households, higher waste volume, modern renovations | Larger double bins | Great for busy kitchens needing more capacity |
| 500mm+ Cabinet | Premium homes, multi-bin separation systems, luxury kitchens | Triple bins or large-capacity systems | Best for high-end kitchens and advanced waste sorting |
How to Measure Your Cabinet Correctly
Before buying any kitchen bin, follow these steps.
- Empty the Cabinet
Remove cleaning products, baskets, shelves, and loose items.
- Measure Internal Width
Measure side wall to side wall.
- Measure Internal Depth
Measure from the inside front edge to the back panel.
- Measure Internal Height
Measure from cabinet floor to underside of sink or top shelf.
- Check Obstructions
Look for: hinges, pipes, shelf supports, power points & door brackets
- Compare with Product Specifications
Always compare your cabinet measurements to the product dimensions before purchasing.
Single vs Double vs Triple Pull Out Bin: Which Needs More Space?
| Pull Out Bin Type | Minimum Cabinet Width | Best For | Capacity | Space Required | Key Benefits |
| Single Bin | 300mm+ | Small kitchens, apartments, singles/couples | Low to Medium | Least space required | Compact, affordable, easy to install |
| Double Bin | 400mm+ | Families, recycling households, everyday kitchens | Medium to High | Moderate space required | Separate rubbish + recycling, practical for daily use |
| Triple Bin | 500mm+ | Large families, premium kitchens, advanced waste sorting | High | Most space required | Ideal for rubbish, recycling, and food waste separation |
If you’re unsure which configuration suits your kitchen, read: Pull Out Kitchen Bin Types Explained: Single, Double & Triple Bin Systems.
Can You Install a Pull Out Bin Under the Sink?
Yes, but only if enough usable space remains after plumbing.
Under sink pull out bins work well if:
- Plumbing is positioned to one side
- There is 450mm+ usable depth
- Enough height remains under the sink bowl
- Pipes do not block runner movement
Compact side-mounted bins are often the best solution under sinks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Pull Out Bin
Choosing the wrong pull out bin usually happens because homeowners focus only on price or guess the cabinet size without measuring properly. A little planning before buying can save frustration and ensure your bin works smoothly every day.
Measuring Only the Outside Cabinet
One of the most common mistakes is measuring the outside of the cabinet instead of the internal usable space. External cabinet dimensions can look generous, but side panels, hinges, and internal fittings reduce the real room available.
Always measure:
- Internal width
- Internal depth
- Internal height
Internal dimensions determine whether the frame and bins can fit properly.
Ignoring Hinges and Door Hardware
Cabinet hinges can reduce the clear opening space, especially in narrow cabinets. Some pull out bin frames may fit inside the cabinet but struggle to pass through the opening because hinges block movement.
Before buying, check:
- Hinge placement
- Opening clearance
- Door brackets
- Soft-close hinge projections
Forgetting Plumbing
This is especially important for under sink installations. Many people assume all under sink cabinets have enough room, only to discover pipes, waste traps, or water filters take up valuable space.
Check for:
- Sink waste pipes
- Water hoses
- Filtration systems
- Power outlets
If plumbing blocks space, a compact side-mounted bin may be a better option than a wider double-bin system.
Choosing Capacity Over Fit
A larger bin may sound appealing, but if it jams, rubs against the cabinet, or becomes difficult to pull out, it quickly becomes annoying to use.
A smaller bin that fits perfectly and glides smoothly is often a better long-term choice than an oversized unit forced into a tight cabinet.
Not Considering Daily Use
Many buyers focus only on dimensions and forget to think about how the bin will be used every day.
Consider:
- Family size
- Recycling habits
- Cleaning frequency
- How often rubbish is emptied
- Whether food waste is separated
A single bin may be enough for one or two people, while families often benefit from double-bin systems.
Buying Cheap Hardware
Budget bins can look similar online, but low-quality runners and weak frames often fail faster. If the bin is used multiple times daily, quality matters.
Choosing a stronger system with smooth runners and removable buckets usually gives better value over time.
Questions to Ask Before Buying
Before selecting a pull out bin, think about:
- How many people live in the home?
- Do you separate recycling regularly?
- How often is rubbish emptied?
- Is this the main kitchen bin?
Answering these questions helps you choose the right size and bin configuration.
Best Pull Out Bin Size for Australian Kitchens
The best bin depends on your kitchen size, cabinet width, and how much waste your household produces.
| Kitchen Type / Household Need | Recommended Pull Out Bin Size | Why It Works Well |
| Apartments / Studios | 300mm single compact bin | Saves space and fits narrow cabinets. |
| Couples / Small Homes | 350mm standard single bin | Good everyday capacity without using too much cabinet space. |
| Families | 400mm double bin | Ideal for rubbish + recycling. |
| Large Households | 450mm large double bin | Extra capacity for busy kitchens. |
| Renovated / Designer Kitchens | 450mm+ premium systems | Better features, soft-close runners, larger storage. |
| Heavy Recycling Homes | Double or Triple Bin Systems | Helps separate waste, recycling, and food scraps. |
| Under Sink Installations | Compact side-mounted bin | Works around plumbing in tight spaces. |
Quick Recommendation
If you’re unsure where to start:
- Choose 300mm single bin for compact kitchens
- Choose 400mm double bin for most family homes
- Choose 450mm+ premium systems for larger households
- Choose triple bins for advanced recycling setups
Why Buy a Quality Pull Out Bin
A pull out bin is used every day, often multiple times per day, so quality construction makes a big difference in performance, convenience, and lifespan.
Benefits of a Quality Pull Out Bin
- Smoother runner operation
- Quieter opening and closing
- Stronger frames for heavier loads
- Removable buckets for easier cleaning
- Better long-term durability
- Cleaner, more premium kitchen feel
Why Cheap Pull Out Bins Can Cost More Later
Low-cost pull out bins may seem cheaper upfront, but they often wear out faster and create daily frustration.
Common problems include:
- Weak runners
- Poor alignment
- Loose brackets
- Cracked buckets
- Shorter lifespan
Replacing a cheap unit later can cost more than buying quality once.
Why Homeowners Upgrade
Many homeowners upgrade to premium pull out bins because they want smoother daily use, better reliability, easier cleaning, and stronger long-term performance.
For reliable kitchen waste solutions, browse the range at The Storage Online Shop.
At The Storage Online Shop, we help Australian homeowners choose practical kitchen storage solutions based on cabinet size, household needs, and layout.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum cabinet width for a pull out bin?
The minimum cabinet width for most pull out bins is 300mm. Compact single-bin systems are designed for smaller cabinets, while double-bin models usually need 400mm to 450mm width.
How much depth is needed for a pull out bin?
Most pull out bins require 450mm internal cabinet depth. For smoother runner movement and larger bin systems, 500mm depth is ideal.
Can a 300mm cabinet fit a pull out bin?
Yes, many slimline single pull out bins are specifically made for 300mm cabinets, making them ideal for apartments and compact kitchens.
Is a double pull out bin worth it?
Yes, double pull out bins are worth it for most households because they allow separate storage for rubbish and recycling while keeping waste hidden inside the cabinet.
What size pull out bin is most popular in Australia?
One of the most popular choices in Australia is a 400mm double pull out bin, as it offers a practical balance of capacity and cabinet space efficiency.
Can I install a pull out bin under the sink?
Yes, pull out bins can be installed under the sink if plumbing leaves enough usable width, depth, and height inside the cabinet.
Which is better: single or double pull out bin?
A single bin is better for smaller kitchens, while a double bin is better for families or homes that separate rubbish and recycling.
Are soft-close pull out bins worth buying?
Yes, soft-close pull out bins provide smoother, quieter operation and are often more durable for daily use.
Where can I buy quality pull out bins in Australia?
You can browse premium kitchen waste solutions at The Storage Online Shop.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right pull out bin starts with measuring your cabinet space correctly. In most kitchens, a pull out bin needs at least 300mm width, 450mm depth, and 400mm height, while larger double or triple bin systems require more room.
The best option depends on your kitchen layout, household size, and whether you need space for rubbish, recycling, or food waste separation. Compact single bins suit smaller kitchens, while double-bin systems are ideal for busy family homes.
Investing in a quality pull out bin also improves everyday convenience with smoother runners, better durability, and easier cleaning.
If you’re ready to upgrade your kitchen storage, explore the range of pull out bins, recycling systems, and cabinet waste solutions at The Storage Online Shop.