That loud BANG every time the trash can lid closes is more than just an annoyance—it can disturb the peace of your home and neighborhood. Fortunately, you don't need to buy a new can. Here are several effective, low-cost methods to quiet that lid.
The most common cause of the slam is the lid closing too fast and hard. The goal is to slow it down or cushion the impact.
1. Add Cushioning with Weatherstripping: This is a quick and highly effective fix. Purchase a roll of foam weatherstripping tape with adhesive backing. Clean and dry the rim of your trash can where the lid makes contact. Apply the foam tape in a continuous strip around the entire rim. The foam creates a soft buffer that absorbs the impact, significantly reducing noise.
2. Create a Simple Hydraulic Damper: For a lid that falls shut violently, you can slow its descent. Attach a small piece of velcro (the hook side) to the inside of the can near the hinge. Then, attach a corresponding piece of loop fabric to the underside of the lid. When opened, the velcro will connect, gently holding the lid open until a breeze or a slight push releases it, allowing it to close slowly.
3. Use Magnet or Bungee Cord Solutions: If your can has handles, a short bungee cord can act as a shock absorber. Hook one end to a handle and the other to a small hook installed under the lid's edge (ensure it's plastic-safe). The cord's tension will slow the lid. Alternatively, small, powerful magnets (like rare-earth magnets) can be installed to make the lid "float" closed for the last inch.
4. Adjust or Lubricate the Hinge: Sometimes, the hinge pins are too tight or rusty, causing a jerky motion. Apply a silicone-based lubricant (not oil, which attracts dirt) to the hinge points. If the hinge allows for adjustment, slightly loosening it can allow for a smoother, quieter close.
Pro Tip: For a permanent, clean look, consider purchasing aftermarket soft-close lid dampers designed for outdoor bins, which can often be installed with simple tools.
Start with the weatherstripping method—it's cheap, reversible, and works for most cans. With a few minutes and under $10, you can enjoy a much quieter backyard.