That squeaky trash can lid is so annoying, right? Don't worry, fixing it is a quick and easy job you can do with things you probably already have at home. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide.
First, put on a pair of gloves for hygiene. Open the lid and prop it up if you can. Start by wiping down the hinge area with a dry cloth to remove loose dirt and debris.
Next, create a cleaning solution. Mix a little dish soap with warm water. Dip an old toothbrush or a small brush into the solution and gently scrub the hinge pins and the areas where metal meets metal. You’re trying to break up the grime and rust causing the friction. Wipe it clean with a damp cloth and let it dry completely. A hairdryer on a cool setting can speed this up.
Now for the magic step: lubrication. This is what stops the squeak. A silicone-based lubricant spray is ideal as it doesn’t attract too much dirt. A few drops of mineral oil or even some petroleum jelly (Vaseline) on a cotton swab works great too. If you have WD-40, you can use it to displace moisture and clean, but follow it with a proper lubricant as WD-40 can dry out.
Apply a small amount of your chosen lubricant directly to the hinge pin and the moving parts. Open and close the lid a few times to work the lubricant in deeply. Wipe away any excess to prevent a sticky mess.
That’s it! Your trash can should open and close silently now. For a long-term fix, make this a part of your seasonal cleaning routine. A quick re-application of lubricant every few months will keep those hinges quiet for good.