It's a common frustration: you put your trash can out at the curb, only to find its contents scattered across the yard after a gusty night. The solution is to add weight, but you don't want to create a monstrous bin you can't drag to the curb. Here are simple, effective strategies to secure your can without sacrificing mobility.
First, consider internal weighting. Placing a few bricks or large, smooth rocks at the very bottom of the can liner adds low-center gravity. This stabilizes the base without affecting your ability to wheel it. For a cleaner approach, fill a sealed plastic jug (like a milk jug) with sand or water and place it at the bottom.
For the lid, which is often the first thing to fly off, use bungee cords or sturdy straps with hooks. Criss-cross them over the lid and hook them onto the can's handles or side lips. This secures the lid tightly while remaining quick to remove.
You can also create external, removable weights. Make simple sandbags by filling durable fabric bags with sand or pea gravel. Place these on the foot pedal or against the sides of the can when it's out for collection, and simply remove them when you bring the empty can back. Another clever trick is to use a bungee cord to strap a cement patio block to the can's handle; it acts as a removable anchor.
The key is balance. Avoid permanently attaching heavy objects that make the can cumbersome. By using removable weights, internal ballast, and secure straps, you can effectively defeat the wind and keep your trash where it belongs—all while preserving the easy mobility you need on trash day.