Living alone often means a smaller kitchen and fewer dishes, but that doesn’t mean you’re exempt from food waste. Scraps pile up, bins can get smelly, and the thought of dealing with organic waste can be a real drag. That’s where a fantastic garbage disposal comes in handy! It’s a game-changer for keeping your kitchen clean and smelling fresh, even if you’re only prepping meals for one.
But which one is right for a single-person household? You don’t need industrial power, but you still want reliability, quiet operation, and a compact design that won’t eat up precious under-sink space. We’ve scoured the market to find the best garbage disposal for one person, focusing on features that matter most to solo dwellers. Get ready to ditch those stinky food scraps for good!
Why a Garbage Disposal is a Solo Dweller’s Best Friend
You might think a garbage disposal is overkill if it’s just you, but think again!
* Keeps Odors Away: Fewer food scraps sitting in your trash can means a fresher kitchen, period.
* Cleaner Kitchen: Easily rinse plates and pans directly into the drain, no more scraping into a bin.
* Eco-Friendly: Food waste can be diverted from landfills and sometimes processed into renewable energy or compost.
* Convenience: Quick and easy cleanup after every meal, big or small.
Ready to find your perfect match? Let’s dive into our top picks for the best garbage disposal for one person.
Our Top 7 Picks for the Best Garbage Disposal for One Person
1. InSinkErator Garbage Disposal with Power Cord, Badger 1
The InSinkErator Badger 1 is a classic for a reason, and this version comes with a pre-installed power cord, making DIY installation a breeze. It’s an excellent choice for a single person thanks to its compact, space-saving design and reliable 1/3 HP motor, perfectly suited for handling the everyday food scraps generated by one individual. You won’t have to worry about complex wiring or a bulky unit taking over your under-sink cabinet.
- Key Features:
- 1/3 HP Dura-Drive induction motor for dependable grinding.
- Rugged, galvanized steel grind components.
- “Twist-On, Twist-Off” Quick Lock Mount for fast replacement.
- Lift and Latch technology for easier installation.
- Compact, space-saving design (11.5″ H x 6.31″ W).
- Assembled in USA with factory-installed power cord.
- Includes jam-buster wrenchette and kitchen drain stopper.
- Pros:
- Very easy DIY installation with pre-installed power cord.
- Compact size fits easily in small spaces.
- Reliable performance for typical light food waste.
- Affordable and widely available.
- Cons:
- 1/3 HP might struggle with tougher or larger food scraps.
- Standard noise level, not exceptionally quiet.
- 1-year limited warranty is relatively short.
- User Impressions: Folks love how straightforward this unit is to install, especially with the power cord included. It’s a reliable workhorse for everyday scraps without taking up much room, making it a popular choice for apartments and small kitchens.
2. InSinkErator Garbage Disposal, Badger 1, Standard Series
Another strong contender from InSinkErator’s trusted Badger series, this Standard Series model is all about delivering reliable performance at an affordable price. It’s an ideal, no-frills option if you’re looking for a dependable food waste disposer without breaking the bank. Its compact design and compatibility with existing InSinkErator hardware make it a quick and easy upgrade or first-time install for any single-person household.
- Key Features:
- Exclusive 1/3 HP Dura-Drive Induction Motor.
- Long-lasting galvanized steel components.
- Compact, space-saving design.
- Fits existing InSinkErator hardware for quick installation.
- America’s #1 disposer brand for reliability.
- Pros:
- Extremely affordable, great value for money.
- Dependable for everyday light food scraps.
- Compact and easy to install, especially as a replacement.
- Trusted brand reputation.
- Cons:
- Basic features, not designed for heavy grinding.
- 1/3 HP means it’s best for softer waste.
- Standard noise level.
- User Impressions: Customers consistently praise this Badger 1 for its unbeatable value and straightforward functionality. It’s a no-frills option that gets the job done reliably, making it a go-to for budget-conscious buyers seeking efficient kitchen cleanup.
3. InSinkErator EVOLUTION 1HP, Advanced Series Continuous Feed Garbage Disposal
If you’re living alone but still want top-tier performance and whisper-quiet operation, the InSinkErator Evolution 1HP is your dream machine. This model boasts advanced 4-Stage MultiGrind technology to prevent clogs and SoundSeal technology for an incredibly quiet experience. While it’s a higher investment, its powerful 1 HP motor and exceptional quietness make it a luxurious upgrade for any single individual who values peace and premium efficiency in their kitchen.
- Key Features:
- Powerful 1 HP Dura-Drive induction motor.
- Advanced 4-Stage MultiGrind technology for the finest grind.
- Quietest SoundSeal technology for ultra-quiet operation.
- Durable stainless steel grind components.
- Removable Quiet Collar sink baffle.
- EZ Connect Hardwire Adapter and Lift and Latch technology for easier installation.
- Compact design (12.25″ T x 8.25″ W).
- Backed by a 10-year “We Come to You” Limited Service Warranty.
- Pros:
- Incredibly quiet, almost unnoticeable when running.
- Powerful 1 HP motor handles tough food scraps effortlessly.
- MultiGrind technology virtually eliminates clogs.
- Excellent 10-year warranty provides long-term peace of mind.
- Durable stainless steel components.
- Cons:
- Higher price point.
- Power cord sold separately.
- User Impressions: Users rave about the almost silent operation and impressive grinding power of this unit. It handles tough scraps with ease, making kitchen cleanup a breeze, even if it’s a bit of an investment. Many consider it the ultimate best garbage disposal for one person if quietness is a priority.
4. InSinkErator Power 1HP Garbage Disposal, Power Series
The InSinkErator Power 1HP strikes a fantastic balance between power and a reduced noise level, without venturing into the premium price of the Evolution series. This model offers a robust 1 HP motor, perfect for those who want to tackle a wider variety of food scraps without worrying about jams. Its space-saving design also ensures it fits neatly under the sink, leaving room for your other small kitchen appliances.
- Key Features:
- Powerful 1 HP motor for tackling tough food scraps.
- Reduced noise levels compared to standard disposals.
- Power Grind feature for efficient grinding.
- EZ Connect Hardwire Adapter and Lift and Latch technology for easy installation.
- Compact design fits well under the sink.
- Pros:
- Strong 1 HP motor provides reliable grinding for almost any food waste.
- Noticeably quieter than basic models.
- Easy DIY installation features.
- Space-saving design is great for small kitchens.
- Cons:
- Not as whisper-quiet as the Evolution series.
- Power cord likely sold separately (as per common InSinkErator 1HP models).
- User Impressions: People appreciate the noticeable reduction in noise compared to older models, combined with the robust grinding power that tackles most food waste without a hitch. It’s a solid, quieter upgrade for a single person looking for efficiency.
5. GE Disposall Continuous Feed 1/3 Horsepower Motor Garbage Disposal
GE’s Disposall series offers a reliable and efficient solution, and this 1/3 HP model is specifically recommended for households of 1-2 people. What truly sets it apart at this horsepower is its impressive grinding speed of over 2,300 RPM, ensuring food is quickly pulverized and clogs are minimized. For a solo occupant, this means quick, effective disposal of everyday kitchen waste without any fuss, all in an easy-to-install package.
- Key Features:
- 1/3 HP motor with over 2,300 RPM for fast grinding.
- Specifically recommended for a family of 1-2 people.
- Easy DIY installation with everything included in the box.
- Anti-jam food disposal design.
- 25-ounce grind chamber capacity.
- Pros:
- Fast grinding speed for a 1/3 HP unit.
- Ideal horsepower for single-person usage.
- Very easy and straightforward installation.
- Helps reduce food waste efficiently.
- Cons:
- 1/3 HP still limits what very tough scraps it can handle.
- Standard noise level can be expected.
- User Impressions: Customers find this GE model to be surprisingly efficient for a 1/3 HP unit, noting its quick grinding and ease of setup. It’s a practical choice for smaller households who want reliable performance without overspending.
6. GE Continuous Feed Garbage Disposal, 1/3 Horsepower, Good Series
This GE Continuous Feed model, part of their “Good” series, shares the same excellent features as the previous GE entry. It’s built for efficiency and ease of use, making it another fantastic option for a single person. Its 1/3 HP motor quickly reaches over 2,300 RPM, grinding common food scraps like pasta, fruit peels, and cereals effectively. If you’re looking for a straightforward, dependable, and easy-to-install garbage disposal for one person, this model delivers consistent performance.
- Key Features:
- 1/3 HP motor for fast grinding and minimal clogging.
- Over 2,300 RPM for finely grinding tough foods.
- Easy DIY installation with all necessary components included.
- Anti-jam food disposal helps keep kitchens clean.
- 25-ounce grind chamber capacity.
- Pros:
- Excellent grinding speed for its horsepower class.
- Designed for small households (1-2 people).
- Simple and quick installation process.
- Reliable for daily food waste management.
- Cons:
- Limited to 1/3 HP, so very hard or fibrous scraps might be a challenge.
- Noise level is likely standard for its category.
- User Impressions: Just like its counterpart, users highly rate this GE disposal for its quick and reliable performance, especially considering its 1/3 HP motor. It’s praised for being straightforward to install and effective for daily food waste.
7. MAX DISPOSER Garbage Disposal 1 HP Ultra Quiet Anti-Jam
The MAX DISPOSER brings serious power and advanced features to the table, making it a standout option for a single person who wants premium performance and durability. With a 1 HP motor, a unique Anti-Jam Grinding System (featuring a computer chip and automatic reversal), and an ultra-quiet design, this unit handles everything you throw at it. Its heavy-duty stainless steel interior and 4-stage grinding system ensure longevity and superior performance, perfect for a busy solo chef.
- Key Features:
- Powerful 1 HP Anti-Jam Grinding System with pre-installed power cord.
- Built-in computer chip for automatic jam detection and reversal.
- Heavy-duty, rustproof stainless steel interior and high-hardness components.
- Pro-Grade 4-stage grinding system for pulverizing tough scraps.
- Ultra-Quiet Operation with aviation-grade sound mute and fully enclosed design.
- Large 40.6 oz (1200 mL) capacity.
- Includes dishwasher drain port and removable splash guard.
- Pros:
- Extremely powerful 1 HP motor for all types of food waste.
- Advanced anti-jam technology prevents clogs.
- Very quiet operation, competitive with premium brands.
- Durable, rustproof stainless steel construction.
- Pre-installed power cord for easier setup.
- Cons:
- Uses 3-Point Mounting, which might be less familiar than EZ-mount systems.
- Does not include air switch or downpipe assembly.
- Potentially a newer brand with less established long-term reviews.
- User Impressions: Reviewers are often impressed by the quiet yet powerful operation of the MAX Disposer, especially its anti-jam technology. It’s seen as a strong contender for those wanting high performance and durability, though some note the specific mounting type requires careful attention.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Garbage Disposals for One Person
Q1: Why do I need a garbage disposal if I live alone?
Even if you generate minimal food waste, a garbage disposal significantly reduces kitchen odors by quickly disposing of food scraps. It also makes cleanup faster and keeps your sink area tidier, preventing small amounts of waste from accumulating in your trash can and attracting pests.
Q2: What horsepower is best for a single person’s garbage disposal?
For a single person, a 1/3 HP or 1/2 HP garbage disposal is usually sufficient for everyday food scraps like soft vegetables, fruit peels, and plate remnants. If you cook frequently, process tougher scraps (like small bones or fibrous vegetables), or simply want quieter operation and more power, a 3/4 HP or 1 HP model would be an excellent upgrade for greater efficiency and less jamming.
Q3: Are continuous feed or batch feed disposals better for one person?
Most disposals are continuous feed, meaning you can turn it on and keep feeding scraps. This is generally more convenient for a single person. Batch feed disposals require you to fill the chamber, put on a stopper, and then turn it on. While safer, continuous feed offers faster, more flexible use for small, ongoing cleanup tasks.
Q4: How quiet should a garbage disposal be for a small apartment?
If you live in a small apartment or your kitchen is close to living areas, a quieter model is highly recommended. Look for disposals with features like “SoundSeal technology,” “Quiet Collar,” or specific decibel ratings. 1/3 HP models tend to be noisier, while 3/4 HP and 1 HP models often incorporate more sound insulation, making them significantly quieter.
Q5: What maintenance does a garbage disposal need?
Regular maintenance is simple:
* Always use cold water while grinding and for about 15-30 seconds afterward to flush the unit and solidify grease.
* Grind citrus peels (lemon, lime, orange) regularly to naturally clean and deodorize the unit.
* Don’t overload it; feed scraps gradually.
* Avoid putting certain items down (see next question).
* Occasionally clean the rubber splash guard.
Q6: What can’t I put in a garbage disposal?
To prevent clogs and extend your disposal’s life, avoid putting these items down:
* Fibrous materials: Celery stalks, corn husks, artichokes.
* Hard materials: Large bones, fruit pits, coffee grounds (in large quantities).
* Expandable foods: Pasta, rice, potato peels (can expand and create a gummy mess).
* Grease, fats, and oils: They solidify and cause clogs.
* Non-food items: Plastic, glass, metal, paper.
Q7: Can I install a garbage disposal myself?
Many modern garbage disposals are designed for DIY installation, especially if you’re replacing an existing unit. Features like “Quick Lock Mounts,” “Lift and Latch” technology, and pre-installed power cords make the process much easier. However, if you’re uncomfortable with plumbing or electrical work, it’s always best to hire a professional.
Final Thoughts on Finding Your Perfect Garbage Disposal
Choosing the best garbage disposal for one person doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you opt for a basic, reliable 1/3 HP model like the InSinkErator Badger series for simple everyday use, or splurge on a powerful, ultra-quiet 1 HP unit like the InSinkErator Evolution or MAX Disposer for premium performance, there’s a perfect fit out there for your solo kitchen. Consider your cooking habits, budget, and how much quietness you desire, and you’ll be enjoying a cleaner, fresher kitchen in no time! Happy grinding!