It's frustrating when you wake up to find your trash cans knocked over and garbage scattered across your yard after a windy night. This common problem has several practical solutions that can save you the cleanup headache.
Start by adding weight to the bottom of your bins. You can place a few bricks or heavy rocks in the bottom before lining with trash bags. For wheeled bins, consider filling the base with sand or gravel for lower center of gravity.
Bungee cords are incredibly effective for securing lids and preventing them from acting like sails in the wind. Criss-cross two heavy-duty bungee cords over the lid and hook them to the handles or sides of the bin.
If you have a fence or railing nearby, use a simple strap system to tether your bins to something stable. Ratchet straps or even old bicycle inner tubes work well for this purpose.
For those willing to invest in a permanent solution, consider purchasing trash bin enclosures or specially designed anchors that screw into the ground. These create a dedicated, secure spot for your bins that withstands most weather conditions.
Another clever hack is to drill small drainage holes in the bottom of your bins and use ground stakes through these holes when high winds are forecasted.
Remember to position your bins strategically - placing them in corners where buildings meet or against sturdy walls can create natural windbreaks. Avoid placing them in open areas where wind can hit them directly.
With these simple strategies, you can finally win the battle against windy days and keep your trash bins upright and secure throughout all seasons.