The Best Can Crushers for Saving Space in Your Recycling Bin

Buying Guide

Do you recycle your aluminum cans? If so, you aren’t alone. In fact, aluminum cans are the most recycled of all consumer products.

But getting those materials into your recycle bin can be tough. First, there’s the fact that recycling centers request that you empty out all liquid before tossing them in the bin. Then, you have to deal with cans filling up that bin, particularly if you go through quite a few cans between recycling pickups.

That’s where a can crusher can help. These tools feature a handle that you use to reduce a 12- or 16-ounce can to 20 to 25 percent of its original size. Since aluminum cans are fairly pliable, most of these crushers are manually operated. Insert the can, pull a handle to crush and discard.

Most can crushers are built to be mounted. The idea is that you install them on a wall or counter above a recycle container. Once the can is crushed, it drops into the bin below. Your fingers won’t even have to come into direct contact with the can, which can be fairly sticky once crushing is complete.

Before you buy a can crusher, you’ll first need to assess your surroundings and decide where you’ll mount it. Then choose a crusher that can squeeze into that space. Pay particular attention to the mounting surface. Some surfaces might require you to use an adhesive, but many others will allow you to mount them with a screw or nail.

Can crushers aren’t just for sodas, though. You can use them for beers and seltzers, as well as more lightweight juice cans. Some cans are thicker, making them too tough for most can crushers. Those will have to be recycled uncrushed.

• Before you order your can crusher, check to see if it comes with the necessary mounting hardware. You may need to purchase screws or nails ahead of time. Even if your chosen crusher does come with hardware, though, you’ll still need the appropriate tools.
• Take a good look at the construction of any can crusher. The more durable the materials, the easier the crushing process will be. You’ll also want to make sure the handle is secured with reinforced bolts.
• Some can crushers have handles that are cushioned to keep your hand comfortable while you’re using them. This can reduce hand fatigue, making it especially important if you plan to crush dozens of cans at once.
• Can crushers can come in handy if you routinely have outdoor parties that generate a large number of empty cans. You could hang the crusher on a post near a trash can and let your guests do the crushing.
• Although you’ll find plenty of neutral-toned can crushers, some come in vivid colors that can be a complement to your existing décor.
• You can find multipurpose can crushers, such as those with built-in bottle openers. This can help save space and eliminate the need to purchase separate tools for the purpose.
• Some can crushers are built solely to crush 12-ounce cans. If you regularly have 16-ounce cans, you’ll want to look for a crusher that can handle both sizes.
• Extra stability can come in handy while you’re crushing. Some have rubber bases that ensure the can doesn’t slip while you’re crushing.
• Safety is important while crushing cans. If you hang your can crusher where children can reach it, opt for one with safeguards built in to keep little fingers safe.
• If you’re crushing cans, you’ll want to make sure you empty them completely before crushing them. Otherwise, you could find that the liquid sprays everything nearby.