That loud, jarring SLAM of your urban trash bin lid is more than just an annoyance—it can disrupt a peaceful morning or evening for you and your neighbors. The good news is, you don't need to buy a new bin. With a few simple household items, you can easily quiet that lid for good.
The most common cause of the noise is the hard plastic lid hitting the hard plastic body of the bin. The solution is to create a soft cushion between them. Here are a few effective methods:
1. The Felt Pad Fix: This is the quickest and most discreet solution. Purchase a set of self-adhesive felt pads, the kind used on chair legs. Clean and dry the contact points on the underside of the lid rim. Then, simply stick the pads onto these spots. When the lid closes, the felt will absorb the impact, creating a soft, quiet "thud" instead of a slam.
2. The Pool Noodle Hack: For a more robust solution, a standard pool noodle works wonders. Slice a piece of the noodle lengthwise to create a "C" shape. Fit this piece snugly onto the entire rim of the trash can body. You may need to use a strong glue or small zip ties to secure it in place. This creates a full, soft bumper that the lid closes against.
3. Weather Stripping Seal: Adhesive foam weather stripping is another excellent option. It's designed to create a seal and absorb sound. Apply a continuous strip around the top rim of the bin where the lid makes contact. This method is particularly effective at creating a tight, silent close.
A quick tip: If your bin lid has hinges, a small drop of lubricating oil on the hinge points can also eliminate any creaking sounds that add to the noise.
By implementing one of these easy, low-cost DIY fixes, you can enjoy taking the trash out without the dramatic soundtrack. A quieter bin means a more serene home and happier neighbors. Give it a try this weekend