Absolutely, yes. It’s not only possible but actually a fairly common design choice in both commercial and residential settings. Many manufacturers produce waste bins specifically designed with smaller or restricted openings to prevent people from tossing in oversized items like pizza boxes, large product packaging, or household waste that might otherwise create a bulky mess.
These bins come in a few different styles. One popular version is the “slotted lid” bin, which has a narrow, elongated opening perfect for paper waste or smaller trash. Another option is a bin with a small circular opening—often used in public restrooms—which forces users to discard only small items. There are also lids with spring-loaded flaps that reduce the opening size further while still allowing easy hand access for typical trash.
If you’re looking for one for an office or home, check out brands like Simplehuman, Rubbermaid, or Umbra, which offer bins with customized lid inserts. For public or industrial settings, you can find heavy-duty bins with trap doors or small slot openings designed to control waste flow.
The main benefit here is obvious: by limiting the opening, you discourage people from dumping large items that don’t belong. This helps keep the bin area tidy, reduces the frequency of overflowing trash, and can even cut down on improper disposal of bulky recyclables. Just make sure to choose a bin size and opening shape that still fits your daily routine—if the opening is too small, it might become frustrating for day-to-day use.