That's a great and very practical question! It's frustrating when a lid breaks, and naturally, you'd hope to just swap it with another. The short answer is: sometimes, but not always. It heavily depends on the brand, model, and age of your bins.
Most standard round or rectangular outdoor bins from major manufacturers (like Rubbermaid, Toter, or simple generic ones) often use similar dimensions for a given size (e.g., 32-gallon, 64-gallon). Lids for these *might* be interchangeable within the same size class and shape. However, the devil is in the details. Attachment points, hinge mechanisms, and locking tabs can vary significantly even between bins of the same capacity.
Here’s what you can do:
1. Check for Brand/Model Numbers: Look for molded-in numbers on both the broken lid and the bin itself. Matching these is your best bet for a perfect fit.
2. Measure Precisely: Measure the outer diameter or width/length of your bin's top opening. Also, note the hinge type (pin hinges, bar hinges, etc.).
3. Contact the Manufacturer: If you know the brand, their customer service can often tell you if lids are sold separately and which models are compatible.
4. Universal Lids: Some companies sell "universal" or "one-size-fits-most" lids designed for standard openings. These often use adjustable clamps or a flexible design.
If a perfect match isn't available, a universal lid or a replacement from the original manufacturer is usually a better long-term solution than trying to force a lid from a different bin, which may not seal properly or secure against animals. So, while interchangeability is possible, a bit of research will save you time and ensure a functional fit.