That loud, startling BANG every time the wind blows or the lid slams shut is a common nuisance. Luckily, silencing your outdoor trash can lid is usually a quick and inexpensive fix. Here are the most effective methods, starting with the simplest.
First, check the basics. Is your can placed on uneven ground, causing it to rock and the lid to wobble? Moving it to a flat, stable spot can sometimes solve the problem immediately. Also, ensure it's not overfilled, which prevents the lid from closing properly.
For a direct and durable solution, attach a soft buffer to the points where the lid makes contact. Self-adhesive weatherstripping foam, small pieces of an old bicycle inner tube glued on, or even adhesive-backed felt pads (like those for furniture feet) work perfectly. Apply them to the underside of the lid's rim or the top of the can where it hits.
If the lid is loose and flapping, you need to tighten its connection. For lids attached with a metal bar or plastic pins, a simple rubber band or a heavy-duty rubber O-ring can add tension. Loop it around the hinge points on both sides. For a more permanent hold, use a bungee cord with hooks: hook one end to the handle of the can, stretch it over the closed lid, and hook the other end to the opposite side. This securely holds the lid down.
Another clever hack is the "gravity stabilizer." Drill a small hole in the center of the lid's underside and another in the front top rim of the can body. Thread a sturdy string or a thin nylon rope through both, tying a large knot on the inside of the lid. Leave enough slack so the lid can open fully, but the string will catch it gently before it can slam backwards. The weight of the lid will keep the string taut, preventing flapping.
For persistent wind issues, consider adding weight. You can place a brick or a heavy rock inside a plastic bag and set it on top of the lid when closed. Alternatively, attach flat weights (like dive weights or small sandbags) to the underside of the lid with strong adhesive or by threading them through drilled holes.
With these simple tricks—from foam pads to bungee cords—you can enjoy a peaceful backyard, free from the jarring sound of a banging trash can.