That's a great and very practical question! From my own experience and from talking to neighbors, I can say it's generally quite straightforward, but how easy it really is depends heavily on two things: the brand/quality of your bin and where you source the parts.
For major, durable brands like Rubbermaid or simpleTough, it's often very easy. These companies typically sell common replacement parts—wheels, axles, lids, and latches—directly on their websites or through major retailers. The process usually involves a few bolts or pins. For example, replacing a wheel often just means removing a cotter pin or plastic clip on the axle, sliding the old wheel off, and putting the new one on. Lid replacement might involve unscrewing a hinge mechanism. No special tools are usually needed, just a screwdriver or pliers.
The challenge comes with generic or store-brand bins. Finding an exact match for a wheel or a specific lid hinge can be tricky. In this case, your best bet is to measure the old part carefully (wheel diameter, axle thickness, hinge width) and search for a universal replacement at a hardware store like Home Depot or online on Amazon. Universal wheels with adjustable mounting brackets are widely available and can save an entire bin from the landfill.
Overall, the actual replacement is usually a 10-15 minute DIY job. The key is getting the right part. My advice? Check the manufacturer's website first. If that fails, take the old part to your local hardware store—they are fantastic at helping match things up. It's almost always easier and cheaper to replace a part than to buy a whole new bin, so it's definitely worth the small effort