The IKEA Solution That Hides Kitchen Trash And Clutter

Garbage and clutter can prevent your kitchen from reaching its full potential — because even a beautifully decorated space can be easily ruined by a poorly placed trash can. As a result, you may want to figure out a way to disguise your trash can so that it's no longer an eyesore. There are a few different ways to accomplish this, but one of the most aesthetically pleasing solutions involves hiding your trash can and other unused clutter inside a customized IKEA cabinet. To pull this off, simply place your trash can inside the cabinet and cover it with either a half curtain or cabinet doors. Install a countertop section on top to serve as additional storage and display space so you can keep your actual kitchen counters clear.

When you're done assembling this setup, you'll have a stylish hideaway for your trash can. Guests will have no idea that your garbage is tucked away inside the unit. Plus, this storage solution also helps suppress trash odors that could otherwise fill your kitchen. Another great perk it offers is cohesiveness, since you have the option to select a cabinet and countertop combo that meshes well with your existing kitchen design scheme.

Before browsing through IKEA's store aisles or website, first identify the spot where you plan to place the cabinet. It's a good idea to store it out of the way in a corner or against a wall, if possible. Measure the length, width, and height of that space, and use that information to determine what size cabinet you'll need to purchase. A floor cabinet frame from the IKEA SEKTION line, such as the SEKTION base cabinet frame, is a great option that allows for customization. You can add your preferred countertop — whether from IKEA or elsewhere, like Home Depot – and attach doors (IKEA also has plenty of these). If you have a tighter budget, consider ditching the doors and opting for curtains instead. You can easily hang the curtains inside the cabinet with a tension rod.

@britt_creative

Temporary affordable solution until we can add built ins! Converted an @IKEA cabinent to fit this space. And added ikea pull out garbage and recylcing. #ikeahack#diyproject

♬ In The Kitchen – Giulio Cercato

Selecting the right trash can for this storage solution is the final step after your chosen cabinet is all set up. Keep in mind that the garbage bin can't be wider or taller than the cabinet opening. Luckily, you may be able to place two smaller bins side by side if you choose something compact like the 7-Quart Waste Basket from Dollar Tree. After the trash is hidden away, take some time to figure out what to do with the attached countertop. Free up space by using the additional section to organize cooking utensils, display decor, or store an appliance.