Mounting a Trash Receptacle Over a Sink

Size of Receptacle

• While the idea of mounting a trash receptacle above your sink may sound novel and useful, you need to keep in mind that the bin must have ample capacity for your needs without taking up too much room. Before purchasing a receptacle, measure the space above the sink, from the top of the faucet to the top of the cabinet above. If you do not have a cabinet above the sink, determine the clearance you need. As a rule of thumb, the bottom of a receptacle should be at least 8 inches above the sink faucet.

Required Materials

• While the exact materials required to mount a receptacle over a sink will vary, according to how the trash bin is mounted, several items are required, no matter what. The basic materials needed include a measuring tape, screws, a screwdriver and solid wire to secure the receptacle in place.

Mounting Tips

• When determining the best way to mount a trash receptacle, you should make sure it can be removed easily for emptying and cleaning. For example, if your kitchen sink does not have cabinets above it, you can mount the receptacle by attaching two wires to the ceiling with a circular or square bottom so the receptacle can slide into and out of the wired frame for streamlined trash removal. If your sink has cabinets mounted above it, you can utilize the same method; however, you will need to use shorter wires and a smaller receptacle to ensure you still have ample space above the sink for food preparation.

Consideration

• If you are using the over-the-sink receptacle to place cooking scraps, such as onion peels or other items that tend to smell, you may want to add a cover to the receptacle to keep bad odors at bay.