That's a great question! A broken trash can lid hinge is super annoying. From my experience and research, the best type of hinge for an outdoor trash can lid is a stainless steel, heavy-duty continuous (piano) hinge.
Here’s why it's the top choice and what to look for:
1. Stainless Steel is Non-Negotiable.
For outdoor use, you must avoid standard steel or cheap plated hinges—they rust quickly. Stainless steel (especially 304 or 316 grade) is corrosion-resistant and can handle rain, sun, and temperature swings. It won't rust and seize up or break.
2. The Continuous/Piano Hinge Design is Key.
Unlike small, separate butt hinges, a long, continuous hinge runs the full length of the lid. This distributes the stress and weight evenly across the entire lid, preventing the common problem of the plastic cracking at isolated hinge points. It provides superior support.
3. "Heavy-Duty" is the Operative Term.
Look for a hinge with a substantial gauge (thickness). A flimsy hinge will bend or tear out. A thick, heavy-duty hinge can handle the slam of the lid, wind, and occasional overfilling without failing.
Other Excellent Options:
* Heavy-Duty Strap Hinges: These are wide, long hinges that offer great load distribution, similar to a piano hinge. Often made of galvanized or powder-coated steel for weather resistance.
* Reinforced Nylon/Polymer Hinges: High-quality, UV-stabilized plastic hinges can be excellent for plastic cans, as they won't corrode and are often designed to flex slightly, reducing stress on the lid itself.
Hinges to Generally Avoid:
* Thin, Small Butt Hinges: They concentrate force on tiny areas, leading to cracked plastic.
* Anything Made of Plain or Coated Steel: It will rust.
* Integrated Plastic Hinges on Cheap Cans: These are the most common failure point. Replacing them with an external, robust metal hinge is often the best repair.
Installation Tip: When attaching the new hinge, use stainless steel or brass bolts, nuts, and washers. Plastic rivets or standard screws will pull out or corrode. Use large washers on the inside of the can to spread the clamping force and prevent the plastic from tearing.
In short, invest in a long, thick, stainless steel continuous hinge. It might cost a bit more, but it will outlast the trash can itself, saving you money and frustration in the long run. For a quick fix on a plastic can, a heavy-duty UV-resistant polymer hinge can also work well.