Noticing a small crack in your plastic urban trash can can be frustrating, but don't rush out to buy a new one just yet! In many cases, these cracks are surprisingly easy and inexpensive to fix yourself, extending the life of your bin for years.
For a quick and effective repair, start by cleaning the area around the crack thoroughly with soapy water and let it dry completely. Any dirt or moisture will prevent a good bond. For hairline cracks, a strong waterproof adhesive like epoxy or plastic cement is your best bet. Apply a thin layer over the crack, pressing the sides together. You can reinforce it by placing a patch of similar plastic or even a piece of fiberglass mesh tape over the glued area and applying another layer of adhesive on top. Clamp it or use heavy tape to hold it in place until it cures fully as per the product's instructions.
If the crack is a bit wider, consider plastic welding. You can use a soldering iron on a low setting or a dedicated plastic welding kit. Gently melt the edges of the crack to fuse them back together, moving steadily along the line. You can also use a strip of plastic from a spare container as a "welding rod," melting it into the crack to fill the gap and create a strong, permanent bond.
Once your repair is fully cured, you'll have a watertight seal that's ready to handle household waste again. This simple DIY project saves you money and keeps a perfectly good trash can out of the landfill.