Hey, that's a super common and frustrating problem! Those big rolling bins are great until a wheel seizes up. Don't worry, you can usually fix it yourself in a few minutes. Here’s what to do.
First, tip the can on its side (empty it first if needed). Get a good look at the stuck wheel. Is it packed with mud, grass, hair, or plastic wrap? This is the most common culprit. Use a stick, putty knife, or even an old screwdriver to scrape and pull all that gunk out. A stiff brush and a blast from a garden hose can help clean it thoroughly. Let it dry.
If it's clean but still stuck, the issue is likely the axle or bearing. Look at the center of the wheel. You might see a metal pin or a plastic hub. Try spraying a generous amount of a silicone-based lubricant or WD-40 directly into the center where the wheel meets the axle. Give it a few minutes to penetrate, then try to spin the wheel by hand. Work it back and forth to loosen it up.
For a more thorough fix, check if the wheel is held on by a removable clip or pin. If you can safely remove it, take the wheel off. Clean the axle shaft itself with a rag and some lubricant, remove any rust with steel wool, and then re-lubricate everything before putting the wheel back on. Don't over-tighten any fasteners.
To prevent it from happening again, make a quick check part of your routine. Before you roll the can out, give the wheels a spin with your foot to ensure they're moving freely. Avoid rolling it over loose garden debris or long grass when possible. Applying a fresh spray of silicone lubricant to the wheel axles every few months works wonders as a preventative measure.
If a wheel is physically broken or the axle is bent, you'll need to contact your local waste management department. They often provide replacement wheels or a whole new cart for free or a small fee. But for most jams, a simple clean-and-lube will have you rolling smoothly again!