That loud, jarring clang of your outdoor trash can lid doesn't have to be a daily annoyance. Fortunately, you can silence it with a few simple, inexpensive solutions. The most common cause of noise is metal-on-metal contact between the lid's hinge and the bin's body.
One of the easiest fixes is to apply a lubricant. Use a silicone-based spray lubricant, which won't attract dirt and grime like WD-40. Simply spray a small amount onto a cloth and wipe it onto the hinge pins and the areas where the lid makes contact. This creates a smooth, quiet barrier.
For a more permanent solution, consider adding soft bumpers. Self-adhesive felt pads or small pieces of a rubber weatherstrip are perfect for this. Stick them to the underside of the lid or on the rim of the can where the lid makes contact. These materials will absorb the impact and significantly muffle the sound.
If your trash can is older and the noise persists, it might be time to upgrade. Many modern outdoor bins are designed with quiet-close lids that use dampening mechanisms to prevent slamming. Investing in one of these can solve the noise problem permanently.
With these quick tips, you can enjoy taking out the trash without the disruptive crash, making for a more peaceful home environment.