A new trash can isn't exactly the first thing that comes to mind when it's time to redecorate or renovate, but they're a necessary part of any house or office, particularly in the kitchen.

Trash cans can serve more than just a practical or functional purpose, though—they're actually a key piece of the room's décor, so choose wisely when it comes time to purchase one. Just because your trash can will hold garbage doesn't mean it has to look like garbage. Take both functionality and aesthetics into account when buying a new trash can.

Functionality

There are a number of things to think about before selecting a trash can. Consider the following functional factors:

User Type and Location

Who will be using the trash can? Is the trash can for a business or commercial property, or for a home? You'll obviously need a larger trash can for an office full of employees than you will for your own family.

Type of Trash

If the trash can is going in an area where there will be food waste, consider a can with a tight lid to control odor. If the trash will mostly be paper products, you won't have to worry about containing the smell as much.

Volume

How often do you expect the trash can to be used? In a high traffic area where lots of trash will be deposited, you'll need a larger can so you don't have to empty it as frequently.

Mobility

If you expect to take the trash out often, consider its mobility. Wheels or handles are an important feature for a can that will be moved often, but if the can will remain stationary or if you're simply planning to remove and replace bags inside the can when it's full, you don't need to worry about mobility.

Size and Shape

Does the trash can need to fit in a small corner, or inside a cabinet? The size and shape of the can play a huge role in where it fits into the room. For example, a rectangular trash fits easily into a corner, up against the wall without taking up too much floor space.

Convenience

Think about how often the trash can will need to be cleaned. If it's going to be used often, and if its contents are going to be messy, you'll probably want a smooth can without ridges or grooves for ease of cleaning. In addition, consider a touchless trash can with a foot pedal or motion sensor for your convenience. This comes in handy if your hands are full when you need to drop something into the trash.

Aesthetics

Once you have a good idea of the functional features you want in your trash can, it's time to consider the aesthetics. Some things to keep in mind are:

Material

Trash cans can be made from a number of different materials. Does a plastic can fit with the style of the room, or would something made of stainless steel be a better match? Stainless steel cans are a popular choice in kitchens. For a bathroom, a ceramic can that matches your other fixtures might be a good choice.

Color

You probably spent a lot of time picking the perfect paint color for the room, making sure it matches with your desired style and décor. The trash can should be no different. Select a can in a color that matches the theme and feel of the room. Whether you choose a trash can with a solid color, or a fancier can with a pattern or design, put some thought into your decision, because the trash can is going to be seen just as much as the other items in the room.

Lid Type

The lid of a trash can serves a functional purpose, but it also impacts the aesthetics of the can. Do you want a lid at all? If so, do you want a lid that matches the can itself or a lid in a different accent color? Does the trash bag hang out under the lid, or does it fit neatly, hidden inside?

Choose the Right Can

You spend a lot of time and money getting the details of a room right. From choosing the color of the paint to selecting the carpet or flooring to picking the proper furniture or appliances for the room, you care about how it all looks together. Your trash cans are another detail that should not be overlooked. There are endless styles of trash cans available, so take some time and find one that really suits your needs and fits the room it will be in!