That's a great and practical question! The short answer is: it depends heavily on the type and quality of your waste bin. For many basic, inexpensive plastic kitchen bins, repair is often not straightforward. These are frequently made as single, molded units, and the hinges/latches are not designed to be serviced. Trying to glue a broken plastic hinge usually fails due to the constant stress and weight. In these cases, replacement is typically the most cost-effective and sanitary solution.
However, for more durable, commercial-grade, or metal bins, repair is often possible and worthwhile. Many higher-end models have replaceable parts. If a latch mechanism breaks, you can sometimes contact the manufacturer to order a specific replacement latch kit. For a broken hinge on a metal lid, a handy person might be able to use small bolts, nuts, and washers to create a new pivot point, provided the bin's structure is intact.
Before you decide, check: Can you identify the brand or model? A quick online search for "[Brand Name] bin replacement latch" might yield results. Is the damage to a non-critical plastic tab, or is the main structural body cracked? For minor latch issues, strong epoxy or a zip-tie hack might offer a temporary fix. But for broken hinges or large cracks, especially in bins that hold heavy waste, investing in a new, more repairable model is usually the safer and more hygienic long-term choice. It's often less about pure "easiness" and more about the value and design of the bin itself.