Choosing the right waste bin may seem like a minor decision—until you realize how much it impacts hygiene, convenience, and even compliance with health and safety standards. Two of the most common types of waste bins in Kenya are swing bins and pedal bins. Each has its advantages and ideal use cases, and understanding the differences can help you make the best choice for your home, office, clinic, school, or business.

In this guide, Kejani Cleaning Services Limited breaks down everything you need to know about swing bins vs pedal bins to help you make a well-informed decision.

What is a Swing Bin?

A swing waste bin is a waste container that features a lid mounted on a central pivot point. When you push the lid down, it swings open and automatically returns to its original position. It’s often made from lightweight plastic and used in medium- to low-traffic areas.

✅ Key Features

• Swinging flap-style lid

• Hands-on operation

• Affordable and simple design

• Comes in various sizes (10L to 60L+)

What is a Pedal Bin?

A pedal bin, also called a foot-operated bin, opens its lid when you step on a foot pedal. This type is more hygienic since it doesn’t require hand contact.

✅ Key Features

• Foot pedal for hands-free operation

• Ideal for hygiene-critical environments

• Available in plastic or stainless steel

• Sizes range from small (5L) to large (100L+)

Comparison Table: Swing Bin vs Pedal Bin

Pros and Cons

🔄 Swing Bin

Pros:

• Very affordable

• Simple to use

• Lightweight

• Easy to clean

Cons:

• Requires hand contact (less hygienic)

• Lid may get dirty quickly

• Limited odor control

• Can be messy if overfilled

🦶 Pedal Bin

Pros:

• No hand contact needed – more sanitary

• Suitable for kitchens, hospitals, clinics

• Better lid sealing to trap odors

• Appealing modern designs available

Cons:

• Slightly more expensive

• Pedal mechanism may require maintenance

• Takes more floor space in small areas

Use Cases: Which Bin is Best for You?

🏠 Home Use

• Swing bins are fine for dry waste in bedrooms or living rooms.

• Pedal bins are ideal for kitchens, especially when dealing with food scraps or liquids.

🏥 Clinics and Hospitals

• Pedal bins are a must. Infection control guidelines recommend foot-operated bins to avoid cross-contamination.

🏢 Offices

• Swing bins can be used near desks for paper waste.

• Pedal bins are preferred in break rooms, restrooms, or cafeterias.

🍴 Restaurants and Hotels

• Pedal bins help kitchen and service staff maintain hygiene while managing food waste.

• Swing bins may be placed in lobbies or hallways for general litter.

🧒 Schools and Daycares

• Use pedal bins for restrooms and cafeterias.

• Swing bins may work for classroom paper waste but supervise to avoid misuse.

Hygiene Matters: Why Pedal Bins Are Preferred in Critical Areas

In sectors where hygiene is non-negotiable—such as healthcare, food preparation, or childcare—pedal bins are the gold standard. Since users don’t have to touch the bin lid, the risk of germ transfer is greatly reduced.

This is particularly important in the post-pandemic era, where more people are aware of how easily germs can spread from surfaces like bin lids.

What About Odor Control?

Pedal bins often provide better odor containment because:

• Their lids close tightly.

• Some models feature deodorizing compartments.

• There’s less direct contact with waste.

Swing bins, while convenient, usually have loosely fitted lids, which can allow smells to escape—especially in warm climates like Kenya’s.

Material Considerations

• Plastic Bins are lightweight, affordable, and suitable for dry or light waste.

• Stainless Steel Pedal Bins are ideal for upscale offices, kitchens, or bathrooms where you want a clean and modern appearance.

At Kejani Cleaning Services Limited, we stock both types in different sizes and materials to meet your exact need.

Environmental Factors

If you’re concerned about sustainability:

• Choose recyclable materials (many plastic bins are now made from recycled plastic).

• Use separate bins for waste segregation, which is easier with color-coded pedal bins or swing bins.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

If you’re looking for:

• Affordability and simplicity → Go with a swing bin.

• Hygiene, odor control, and versatility → A pedal bin is the better choice.

Each has its place. For the most efficient waste management system, especially in Kenyan homes, clinics, and institutions, we recommend a combination of both types based on where and how they will be used.

Where to Buy Quality Bins in Kenya

At Kejani Cleaning Services Limited, we offer a wide range of:

• Swing bins (plastic, various sizes)

• Pedal bins (plastic and stainless steel)

• Color-coded bins for medical and office use

📦 Shop Waste Bins Now
📞 Need help choosing? Contact us for expert advice or bulk orders.