We all been there – waking up to find that the neighborhood raccoons have raided your trash can yet again, leaving a big mess to clean up. Or perhaps you’ve noticed that the wind tends to blow your garbage all over the street on collection day. The solution? A garbage can lid lock!
The importance of securing a garbage can lid
Securing a garbage can lid is essential to maintaining a clean and safe environment.
The litter from open bins can cause pollution, not to mention attract pests like raccoons, rats, and birds. This reduces the risk of disease caused by rodents and pests that come into contact with the waste materials.
A garbage can lock reduces the cost of cleaning up for communities, improves waste management practices, and enhances the environmental standing of any business or individual that uses one.
With a locked lid, there are fewer chances of waste spilling all over the ground, which keeps the neighborhood cleaner.
Also, lock can be invaluable when it comes to protecting sensitive materials that require secure disposal. [1]
Locking a trash Can Lid (Steps)
Adding a lock to your garbage can is a smart way to secure your garbage and prevent pests and rodents from creating a mess.
The installation process for garbage can locks varies depending on the type of lock you choose, but most are fairly simple. Some locks are built-in, while others can be added to existing cans.
To get started, you’ll need to purchase a garbage can lock kit that comes with wires, hasps, and mounting hardware.
First, drill holes into the side of the trash can near the handle and attach the wires to the can with self-tapping screws.
Next, slide the hasp through the wires and secure it with a lock.
Now, your garbage can is secure and protected from unwanted pests and littering.
Regular maintenance and weekly checks may be needed to ensure the lock is still functioning correctly.
Maintenance is also an important consideration. Not all locks are easy to fix, so it’s important to choose a lock that’s durable and has easily replaceable parts.
Some locks require regular lubrication to prevent rust or other damage.
Strong Strap
The Strong Strap is a universal lid lock that provides an all-purpose trash can solution for securing any standard curbside waste container.
This stretch latch comes with a no-tools-required installation that attaches to most outdoor garbage cans, making it easy to use.
You just need to clamp your trash can lid shut.
Use of aftermarket locks vs. built-in locks
When it comes to garbage can lid locks, you have two options: aftermarket or built-in locks.
Built-in locks usually come with the can itself (built into the trash can), while aftermarket locks are the ones that are added later on.
The advantage of built-in locks is that they are more secure and can withstand harsher weather conditions. However, they are more expensive and may not be compatible with all trash cans.
Aftermarket locks, on the other hand, are less expensive and can be added to almost any trash can. They provide a good balance between cost and security, but they may not be as durable as built-in locks. [2]
Considerations when choosing a lock
When choosing a lock for your garbage can, there are several things to consider.
First, you want to ensure that the lock is effective at solving the problem you are facing. Different locks are designed to address different issues, such as sensitive materials, pests, wind, and overflow.
You also need to consider whether the lock will work on the carts or cans you are currently using, and whether it can be easily installed and maintained by your customers.
Finally, make sure to consider the potential impact on your collection process and weigh the financial rewards against the costs of integrating locks into your business model.
Summary of containers suited for sensitive materials
Sensitive materials, such as medical waste or confidential documents, require a higher level of security than regular household garbage.
These materials should not be accessible to anyone except authorized personnel. Therefore, bins used to hold sensitive materials should be equipped with a lock-and-key combo and preferably a metal-reinforced rim around the lid.
Aftermarket locks are generally not reliable enough to protect sensitive materials, so it is best to use a bin specifically designed for this purpose.
Using Trash Can Locks for Businesses
In addition to securing garbage can lids, businesses can also use locks in unique ways to improve customer satisfaction and retention.
1- A waste management company could offer complimentary lid locks to their high-value customers as a value-added service.
2- Business owners can use garbage can locks to reduce theft and unauthorized use of their dumpsters. Not only does it prevent unauthorized access to sensitive materials, but it can also lead to financial rewards and retaining customers in the long run.
Providing secure disposal solutions shows customers that you value their privacy and are willing to take extra measures to protect it. This can result in loyal customers who see your business as trustworthy and reliable.
3- Locks can also be used in outdoor events or public spaces to prevent littering and ensure a clean environment.
Limitations of Strong Strap Stretch Latch
It’s important to note that while garbage can locks can provide added security and convenience, there are limitations and usage guidelines to consider.
1- Locks may not be effective against all types of pests, such as bears.
2- Some locks may not be suitable for use with certain types of containers or may require additional hardware for installation.
