It's a common and frustrating problem: you hear a crash and find your outdoor trash can has been knocked over by the wind or a curious animal, even though it was barely full. Not only is it a nuisance to clean up, but it can also attract more pests. Fortunately, there are several simple and effective strategies to keep your bin upright and secure.
First, consider the placement of your bin. Positioning it in a sheltered spot, like a corner of your house or garage, can protect it from strong gusts of wind. If that's not possible, try bracing it against a sturdy, permanent structure like a fence, wall, or even a large tree.
For a more direct solution, you can add weight to the bottom of the can. A common method is to place a clean, heavy cinder block or a large, flat rock in the bottom of the bin before you put your trash bag in. This lowers the center of gravity, making it much harder to tip over.
Another excellent method is to anchor your trash can. You can use bungee cords or sturdy ropes to tie the handle of the bin to a fence post, deck railing, or an anchor point on your house wall. This physically prevents it from being blown or knocked down.
If your trash can has wheels, you can engage the wheel locks if it has them. If not, you can place a brick or a wooden chock behind the wheels to prevent it from rolling away in the wind.
Finally, if tipping over is a persistent issue, it might be worth investing in a trash can specifically designed to be more stable. Look for models with a wider base, a lower center of gravity, or even built-in anchor points. By using one or a combination of these tips, you can say goodbye to the mess of a tipped-over trash can.