When it comes to designing a bathroom, many factors need to be taken into consideration. From matching decor to practicality, every element plays a key role in creating a comfortable and functional space. One such element that often goes unnoticed is the trash can. Should it be lidded or not? Some argue that a lid is necessary to keep odors at bay and prevent the biohazardous waste from being exposed, others feel that an open trash can is just as fine.
Should bathroom trash cans have lids?
When it comes to deciding whether or not bathroom trash cans should have lids, there are several factors to consider.
One main reason for a lid is to prevent wet and biological waste from drying out and becoming more disgusting. Odor control and preventing pets from accessing the trash are also important factors.
Additionally, having a lid can keep the bathroom looking tidy and ensure guest privacy.
However, a lid could pose hygiene issues with touching it and other trash disposal options, such as open cans in cabinets or under the sink, may be available. [1]
Let us now look at the detailed reasons for having and not having lidded trash cans in bathroom.
Reasons for HAVING a lidded trash can
1- Wet and biological waste
One of the main reasons to consider having a lid on your bathroom trash can is to avoid coming into contact with wet or biological waste.
This type of waste can often carries harmful bacteria and germs, which can easily spread to other surfaces if not disposed of properly. Having a lid on your trash can ensures that the waste is contained and reduces the likelihood of any infections. [2]
2- Odor control
Nobody wants to smell last night’s garbage or a stinky diaper in their bathroom. Actually, there are plenty of odor control options for your bathroom trash can.
The obvious one is using a lid for your trash can, which not only helps control odors as they will be trapped inside the trash can itself. An open trash can full of smelly diapers or used toilet paper is a definite way to spread the aroma of “disgust” all over the place.
Another option to tackle the odor problem is to opt for a trash can deodorizer to battle any trash smells, which can be easily applied every time the can is emptied.
Regardless of your choice, maintaining a clean and fresh smelling bathroom is key for your comfort and the comfort of your guests. [3]
3- Convenience of disposal
Without a lid, you may have to make several trips to dispose of your waste, especially if you’re dealing with smaller items or debris that can easily fall out of the can. With a lid, you can simply toss your waste in and not worry about it spilling out.
If your trash can is in a hard-to-reach area, such as under the sink, having a lid can make it easier to dispose of waste without having to bend down or reach awkwardly. [4]
4- Preventing Pets from accessing the trash
Pet owners know all too well the struggle of keeping their furry friends out of the trash can. Dogs are notorious for getting into the garbage and making a mess, but investing in a dog-proof trash can can solve this problem.
Many of the dog-proof garbage cans have features like lids that tightly seal shut, motion sensors that open and close the lid automatically, and sturdy materials that dogs can’t chew through.
These features not only prevent pets from accessing the trash but also keep hazardous items out of reach and help to maintain a clean and sanitary home. [5]
5- Keeping the bathroom looking tidy
This is a small change that can have a big impact on the overall appearance of the bathroom. In fact, one of the reasons why people opt for a lid on their bathroom trash can is to keep the room looking tidy.
Having an open trash can can make the bathroom appear cluttered as items accumulate over time.
With a lid, everything is contained, and the trash can appear neat and organized. Additionally, the lid conceals what’s inside the trash, making the bathroom appear less messy. [6]
6- Ensuring guest privacy
Another reason to consider using a lid on your bathroom trash can is to ensure guest privacy.
It’s understandable that guests may feel uncomfortable if they see someone else’s disposal in the trash can. A lid will help keep their trash discreet and out of sight. [7]
A Few Reasons for NOT HAVING a lidded trash can
1- Potential Hygiene issues with touching a lid
One potential issue with bathroom trash can lids is hygiene. When you touch a lid to dispose of waste, you could be transferring germs or bacteria onto your hands. This could be especially concerning if you have an open wound or cut on your hand.
However, there are ways to mitigate this issue, such as using disposable gloves or washing your hands thoroughly after touching the lid. Additionally, some trash cans have hands-free options, such as motion sensors, that help reduce the risk of germ transfer.
2- Availability of other trash disposal options
While having a trash can with a lid is a popular option for bathroom waste disposal, it’s not the only one. There are other trash disposal options that could work, such as an open trash can situated in a cabinet or under the sink. [8]
Compromises and alternatives
Emptying the trash regularly
Emptying the trash regularly is an important aspect of keeping the bathroom clean and tidy. It helps to prevent the accumulation of waste that may cause unpleasant odors and attract pests.
Additionally, it ensures that the trash can remains hygienic and free from harmful bacteria or germs.
It’s a good practice to empty the trash at least once a day, especially if there’s a lot of traffic in the bathroom or if you dispose of wet or biological waste.
Open trash cans in cabinets or under the sink
One option for keeping your bathroom looking tidy and organized is keeping a trash can in a cabinet or under the sink.
This helps to keep the trash out of sight and makes it easy to dispose of items without cluttering up the bathroom.
While open trash cans are an option, they may not be the most aesthetically pleasing choice.
By using a hidden trash can, you can keep your bathroom looking neat and tidy while still having a functional waste disposal option.
Using crumpled paper or tissues to cover certain items in the trash
One common approach for those who prefer open trash cans is to cover certain items with crumpled paper or tissues to prevent odors and messes.
This technique can be effective in eliminating foul odors and keeping the trash can looking clean.
However, it is important to remember to empty the trash regularly and make sure the covered items do not mix with recyclables.
Ultimately, the decision of whether a lid is necessary depends on personal preference and the decor style of the bathroom.
