That's an excellent question! Dealing with a trash bag that slips down into a deep, outdoor bin is a universal frustration. Fortunately, securing those liners is easier than you might think. Here are the most effective methods I've found.
First, the simplest trick is to use the bin's own design. Before placing your bag, lift the lid and look for small plastic lips or hooks around the rim on the inside. Many manufacturers include these specifically for looping and securing the bag's drawstrings. If yours has them, this is your quickest and easiest solution.
If your can lacks these features, don't worry. A set of inexpensive bungee cords is your best friend. Place your liner in the can and pull the bag's edges over the outside of the rim. Then, take a single, long bungee cord and stretch it across the diameter of the lid, hooking it onto the rim on both sides. This creates a cross pattern that neatly holds the bag in place. For larger cans, two bungee cords in an "X" shape work perfectly.
Another great household solution is using sturdy, reusable plastic bag ties or even large binder clips. Simply gather the excess bag material at the rim and secure it tightly with a clip or tie. This method is cheap, highly effective, and keeps the bag taut.
For a more permanent and discreet fix, consider applying self-adhesive hook-and-loop tape (like Velcro). Stick the rough "hook" side strips vertically inside the upper rim of the trash can. Stick the soft "loop" side patches to the outside of your trash bags. When you place the bag, the two sides will grip each other, preventing the liner from sliding down.
Finally, prevention starts with the right bag. Always use heavy-duty or contractor-grade trash bags for outdoor cans. Their thicker material is less likely to tear and they often have stronger, more elastic drawstrings. Make sure the bag is fully opened and settled at the bottom of the can before you start filling it. A little bit of air trapped underneath can cause the whole bag to pop out when you add weight.
By using one of these simple methods—whether it's a bungee cord, a bag clip, or Velcro tape—you can say goodbye to the annoyance of fishing a liner out from the depths of your trash can.