How Long Does It Take to Install a Garbage Can Pull-Out?

Quick Answer

Installing a garbage can pull-out takes 30–90 minutes depending on the kit type and your cabinet configuration. A basic bottom-mount slide-out kit in a standard base cabinet is a 30–45 minute job, while door-mounted systems or installations requiring shelf removal take closer to 60–90 minutes.

Installation Time by Kit Type

Kit Type	Install Time	Difficulty	Typical Cost
Bottom-mount single bin	30–45 min	Easy	$30–$60
Bottom-mount double bin	45–60 min	Easy	$50–$100
Door-mount (attaches to cabinet door)	60–90 min	Moderate	$60–$120
Top-mount (frame hangs from rails)	45–60 min	Moderate	$80–$150
Custom/premium soft-close system	60–90 min	Moderate	$100–$250

Tools Required

• Drill/driver with Phillips bit
• Measuring tape
• Pencil for marking
• Level
• Square
• Screws (usually included with kit)
• Optional: jigsaw (if door modification is needed)

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Step 1: Measure Your Cabinet (5–10 minutes)

Measure the interior width, depth, and height of your base cabinet. Most pull-out kits fit cabinets 12–21 inches wide and at least 19 inches deep. Check the kit specifications against your measurements before purchasing. Also note whether the door is face-frame or frameless, as this affects mounting options.

Step 2: Remove Existing Shelving (5–10 minutes)

If your cabinet has a fixed shelf, you may need to remove it. Most base cabinet shelves sit on shelf pins and lift right out. If the shelf is fixed with screws or nails, remove those fasteners. Clean out the cabinet completely and wipe down the floor surface.

Step 3: Install the Mounting Bracket or Slides (10–20 minutes)

For bottom-mount systems, attach the slide rails to the cabinet floor using the provided screws. Use a square to ensure the rails are parallel and evenly spaced. Most kits include a template or spacer that makes alignment straightforward. For top-mount systems, install the frame rails on the cabinet side walls at the marked height.

Step 4: Attach the Pull-Out Frame (5–10 minutes)

Slide the pull-out basket or frame onto the installed rails. Test that it slides smoothly through the full range of motion. Adjust the rail alignment if the frame binds or rubs at any point. Most quality kits have adjustable mounting slots that allow fine-tuning.

Step 5: Mount to Cabinet Door (10–20 minutes, if applicable)

For door-mounted systems, close the cabinet door and mark the attachment points on the inside face. Open the door and attach the door bracket with screws. Be careful not to use screws that are too long, as they will poke through the front of the door. Align the bracket so the pull-out frame is centered when the door is closed.

Step 6: Test and Adjust (5–10 minutes)

Open and close the pull-out several times. Load the bins and test again under weight. Adjust soft-close mechanisms if included. Verify that the door closes flush with adjacent cabinets.

Common Installation Issues

• Plumbing interference: Sink base cabinets may have pipes that limit bin size or position
• Uneven cabinet floor: Shim the rails if the cabinet floor is not level
• Door clearance: Ensure the bin frame clears the door opening fully when extended
• Hinge conflict: Some door-mount systems require adjusting the cabinet hinge to accommodate the added weight

Popular Brands and Kits

Rev-A-Shelf is the most widely recommended brand for pull-out trash systems, offering models for nearly every cabinet size. Other reputable options include Knape & Vogt, Lynk Professional, and SimpleHuman. For a 15-inch cabinet, the Rev-A-Shelf RV-15KD-17C is one of the most popular choices and installs in under 30 minutes.

Is Professional Installation Worth It?

A handyman or cabinet installer will charge $75–$150 for this job including the kit. Given that DIY installation takes under 90 minutes and requires only basic tools, most homeowners can save by doing it themselves. The only exception is if significant cabinet modification is needed, such as cutting a fixed face frame or rerouting plumbing.