A garbage disposal grinds food scraps so they can wash down the drain. Most kitchen models are continuous feed, so you switch them on at the wall and drop scraps in as you go. A batch feed model runs only when the stopper is in place, which some households prefer for safety.
The six disposals below come from InSinkErator, Waste King and Moen, three names that have sold disposals for years. Horsepower is the maker’s own rating and it is only a rough guide to how well the unit handles tougher scraps. Where a series has several tiers, read the listing to see which one you are choosing. We have not used these products ourselves, so please confirm the size, finish and what is included on the current listing before you buy.
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What to Look For
| Feature | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Feed type | Continuous feed is faster; batch feed adds a safety step before it runs |
| Motor power | More horsepower copes better with fibrous scraps and larger households |
| Noise | Sound insulation makes a difference in open-plan kitchens |
| Mounting | Check that the mount fits your sink flange before buying |
| Jam clearing | Auto-reverse or a hex socket on the base helps clear a jam |
Specs at a Glance
| Disposal | Feed type | Power class | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| InSinkErator Badger 5 | Continuous | Entry level | Common replacement |
| InSinkErator Evolution Compact | Continuous | Mid range | Compact body |
| InSinkErator Evolution Excel | Continuous | High power | Large body |
| Waste King Legend | Continuous | Varies by tier | Cord on many versions |
| Waste King L-8000 | Continuous | High power | Check cord in the box |
| Moen GX Series | Continuous | Several tiers | Easy-mount design |
The 6 Best Kitchen Garbage Disposals
1. InSinkErator Badger 5 Garbage Disposal
An entry-level continuous feed disposal from the brand most people know. It suits light to moderate scrap loads and is a common pick for replacements when the old unit gives out.
Suits: small households. Strengths: a trusted brand and a plain install. Weaknesses: less sound insulation than premium units. Skip it if you cook large meals daily.
View InSinkErator Badger 5 on Amazon
2. InSinkErator Evolution Compact Garbage Disposal
A smaller-bodied model from the Evolution line, built for sinks with limited space under the basin. The maker highlights sound insulation and a multi-stage grinding design.
Suits: tight sink cabinets. Strengths: a compact shape and quieter running. Weaknesses: a higher cost class than basic units. Skip it if you only need a basic unit.
View InSinkErator Evolution Compact on Amazon
3. InSinkErator Evolution Excel Garbage Disposal
A stronger model aimed at busy kitchens. InSinkErator describes it as a high-power disposal with sound insulation, and it is meant for households that put a lot of scraps down the drain.
Suits: large households. Strengths: strong grinding and low noise claims. Weaknesses: a big body that needs under-sink room. Skip it if your cabinet is cramped.
View InSinkErator Evolution Excel on Amazon
4. Waste King Legend Series Garbage Disposal
A continuous feed unit with a power cord option on many versions, which can simplify installation if there is no wired outlet below the sink. Waste King sells it in more than one power tier.
Suits: do-it-yourself installs. Strengths: plug-in options and a known maker. Weaknesses: less sound insulation on lower tiers. Skip it if you want a very quiet unit.
View Waste King Legend on Amazon
5. Waste King L-8000 Garbage Disposal
A higher-powered Waste King model designed for daily family use. Check the listing for whether a power cord is included in the box, since some disposals are sold without one.
Suits: families that want strong grinding. Strengths: a powerful motor class. Weaknesses: can be loud without insulation. Skip it if noise bothers you.
View Waste King L-8000 on Amazon
6. Moen GX Series Garbage Disposal
Moen sells its GX series in several power classes. The listings describe an easy-mount design, and some versions include sound insulation, so compare tiers before ordering.
Suits: buyers who like Moen sink fixtures. Strengths: easy-mount claims and clear power tiers. Weaknesses: choices differ widely by version. Skip it if you want one clear spec.
Care and Setup
- Run cold water for a few seconds before and after each use.
- Feed scraps gradually rather than all at once.
- Grind a few ice cubes now and then to knock off residue.
- Switch the unit off before reaching into the drain for any reason.
- Use a citrus peel occasionally to freshen the chamber.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Pouring grease or oil down the drain.
- Grinding fibrous scraps such as corn husks or celery in bulk.
- Running hot water only, which can let fats cling.
- Ignoring a hum that signals a jam.
- Dropping utensils or bones into the unit.
Kitchen Garbage Disposals FAQ
Continuous feed or batch feed?
Continuous feed is more convenient. Batch feed is a good choice for households with young children because the stopper must be in place to start it.
Is a bigger motor better?
More power copes with tougher scraps, but it also needs more room under the sink and can use more energy.
Can I install a disposal myself?
Many people do. Read the manufacturer’s installation guide, and ask a plumber if your sink or drain is unusual.
Are disposals safe for septic systems?
Many makers advise caution. Check the product guide and your septic provider before using one.
The Short Version
For a basic swap, the InSinkErator Badger 5. For tight cabinets, the Evolution Compact. For busy kitchens, the Evolution Excel. For plug-in installs, the Waste King Legend. For stronger power, the L-8000. For Moen households, the GX Series.