That incessant banging and flapping of your trash can lid on a windy day is more than just an annoyance—it can damage the bin and scatter litter around your neighborhood. Fortunately, you don't need to buy a special expensive bin to solve the problem. Here are 7 simple, do-it-yourself methods to secure your urban trash can lid and finally enjoy some peace and quiet.
1. The Bungee Cord Method: This is the most popular and effective solution. Take a heavy-duty bungee cord with hooks on each end. Stretch it over the lid of the bin, hooking each end onto the bin's handles or the lip of the container itself. This creates downward pressure that holds the lid firmly in place, even during strong gusts.
2. Add Some Weight: Sometimes, the lid is just too light. You can add weight to the top to prevent it from being easily lifted. A few bricks or a paver stone placed centrally on the lid can work wonders. For a cleaner look, consider placing a bag of sand or rock salt on top.
3. The Rope or Bungee Net: For bins without convenient handles, a bungee cargo net is a perfect solution. Drape the net over the entire bin and lid, securing the hooks around the bottom of the bin. This creates an all-over hold that is incredibly secure.
4. Install Lid Clips or Latches: You can purchase aftermarket lid-locking clips or install a simple latch. These are often inexpensive and can be screwed directly onto the bin and the lid, creating a permanent, lockable solution to the flapping problem.
5. Use a Bungee Ball: A bungee ball tie-down is a clever and adjustable option. The ball is threaded through the bin's handle and then the cord is stretched over the lid and hooked on the opposite side. The ball acts as a quick-release mechanism, making it easy to open the bin when needed.
6. The Duct Tape Hinge (Temporary Fix): For a very quick, temporary fix, you can use a strong tape like duct tape to create a hinge on one side. Tape one edge of the lid firmly to the bin's body. This allows the lid to open from the opposite side but prevents it from flapping freely. Be aware that tape can leave a residue.
7. Relocate Your Bin: If possible, simply moving your trash bin to a more sheltered location can make a world of difference. Place it against a wall, fence, or in an alcove where it's protected from the direct force of the wind.
With these easy and affordable tips, you can say goodbye to the noisy, disruptive flapping and keep your curb looking tidy, no matter what the weather forecast brings.