Dealing with a frozen-shut trash can during a cold snap is a frustrating, yet common, urban winter problem. Don't worry, a few simple strategies can prevent this messy headache.
First, moisture is the enemy. Try to dispose of liquids separately if possible. For food scraps or other damp waste, lining your kitchen bin with newspaper or cardboard can absorb excess moisture before it hits the main can. A light coating of cooking spray or silicone spray on the rim and lid seal can also act as a barrier against ice formation.
On collection day itself, give the can a firm tap with your foot before the truck arrives. This can often break a thin seal of ice. For a more proactive approach, consider using a de-icing agent. A handful of rock salt or calcium chloride (like you'd use on driveways) sprinkled around the rim and lid channel works wonders. For a gentler option, mix rubbing alcohol and water in a spray bottle and apply it to the seal; it lowers the freezing point of water.
If you have space, storing the can in a garage, shed, or even against a sunny, sheltered wall of your building can make a big difference. For those in apartments, simply placing the bin on a piece of cardboard or a wooden pallet instead of directly on cold concrete can provide some insulation.
The key is to stop ice from bonding the lid to the can. With these small steps, you can ensure your trash gets picked up on time, keeping your sidewalk tidy and your winter a little less aggravating.