Keeping trash cans hidden outdoors is essential to maintain a clean and aesthetically pleasing look for your yard or home exterior. Unfortunately, many homeowners struggle with how to hide their trash cans. In this blog post, we will share five real-life ideas to help you hide your trash cans effectively.
Idea #1: Build a Trash Can Enclosure
If you have some carpentry skills, building a trash can enclosure is an excellent option. It provides an attractive, secure place for your trash cans while keeping them out of sight. Here are the steps to build a trash can enclosure:
Materials needed:
- Wood (cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated lumber)
- Hinges
- Latch
- Nails/screws
- Paint/stain
- Hardware
Steps:
- Determine the size of the enclosure based on the size of your trash cans.
- Build the frame using wood.
- Install hinges on the frame and attach the door.
- Install the latch to keep the door closed.
- Paint or stain the enclosure to match your home exterior.
- Install hardware, such as handles or knobs, to make it easy to open and close the door.
Pros:
- Provides a secure and attractive storage solution
- Customizable to fit your home’s design
- Long-lasting if built with quality materials
Cons:
- Requires carpentry skills or hiring a professional
- Can be expensive depending on the materials used
Idea #2: Use Wooden Pallets
If you’re looking for an affordable DIY option, using wooden pallets is a great choice. Pallets are often free or inexpensive, and they can be transformed into a trash can cover with just a few modifications. Here are the steps to make a pallet trash can cover:
Materials needed:
- Wooden pallets
- Screws/nails
- Hinges
- Latch
- Paint/stain
- Hardware
Steps:
- Disassemble the pallets and separate the boards.
- Cut the boards to the size needed for the cover.
- Nail or screw the boards together to form a cover.
- Install hinges on the cover and attach it to the trash cans.
- Install the latch to keep the cover closed.
- Paint or stain the cover to match your home exterior.
- Install hardware, such as handles or knobs, to make it easy to open and close the cover.
Pros:
- Inexpensive or free if you can find pallets
- Easy to make with basic tools
- Customizable to fit your home’s design
Cons:
- Not as secure as a trash can enclosure
- Can be less durable than other options if not built properly
Idea #3: Create a Garden Screen
If you have a green thumb, creating a garden screen is a great way to hide your trash cans while adding some natural beauty to your yard. Here are the steps to make a garden screen:
Materials needed:
- Wood (cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated lumber)
- Hinges
- Latch
- Nails/screws
- Paint/stain
- Trellis or lattice
- Plants
Steps:
- Determine the size of the screen based on the size of your trash cans.
- Build the frame using wood.
- Install hinges on the frame and attach the door.
- Install the latch to keep the door closed.
- Attach trellis or lattice to the frame.
- Plant climbing plants at the base of the screen.
- Train the plants to climb the trellis or lattice to create a natural screen.
Pros:
- Provides an attractive and natural solution
- Can improve air quality and provide privacy
- Can be customized to fit your home’s design
Cons:
- Requires some gardening knowledge and effort to maintain
- Can take time to grow and cover the screen completely
- May not be as secure as other options
Idea #4: Use a Privacy Screen
Privacy screens are a popular option for hiding trash cans because they are versatile and come in various styles and materials. Here are the steps to make a privacy screen:
Materials needed:
- Privacy screen panels (wood, vinyl, or metal)
- Hinges
- Latch
- Nails/screws
- Paint/stain
Steps:
- Determine the size of the screen based on the size of your trash cans.
- Install the privacy screen panels using nails or screws.
- Attach hinges to the panels and attach the door.
- Install the latch to keep the door closed.
- Paint or stain the screen to match your home exterior.
Pros:
- Provides a quick and easy solution
- Can be customized to fit your home’s design
- Comes in various materials and styles
Cons:
- Can be expensive depending on the material used
- May not be as secure as other options
Idea #5: Hide Trash Cans with Landscaping
Landscaping is an excellent option for homeowners who want to hide their trash cans while improving the overall look of their yard. Here are the steps to create a landscaping design:
Materials needed:
- Plants (trees, shrubs, or flowers)
- Mulch or gravel
- Pavers or stones
- Edging
Steps:
- Choose plants that will grow tall and wide enough to cover the trash cans.
- Dig a hole and plant the trees or shrubs.
- Add a layer of mulch or gravel around the plants.
- Use pavers or stones to create a path to the trash cans.
- Use edging to separate the landscaping area from the rest of the yard.
Pros:
- Provides an attractive and natural solution
- Can improve air quality and provide privacy
- Can add value to your home
Cons:
- Requires some gardening knowledge and effort to maintain
- Can take time to grow and cover the trash cans completely
- May not be as secure as other options
DIY Guide to Creating A Hidden Trash Can Storage Area
Nobody likes looking at unsightly trash cans cluttering up their yard, driveway, or sidewalk. Luckily, there are ways to hide them from view without sacrificing functionality. This post will guide you through the process of creating a hidden trash can storage area that will keep your cans out of sight while also maintaining easy access and proper ventilation.
Evaluate the Space:
Before you start building, you need to evaluate the available space and determine the best location for your hidden trash can storage area. Consider the topography of the area and any physical features that can be used to your advantage. For example, a fence or trees can be used to help hide your trash cans from view.
Choose the Right Materials:
The materials you choose for your hidden trash can storage area will depend on your budget and personal preference. Popular options include wood, metal, and plastic. Wood is a classic choice that can be painted or stained to match your existing decor. Metal can be durable and offer a modern, industrial look. Plastic is budget-friendly and easy to clean.
Design a Trash Can Storage Area:
Once you have decided on the location and materials, you need to sketch out a basic design for your hidden trash can storage area. The design should include proper ventilation and easy access for disposing of trash. Consider aesthetics as well, as your storage area should blend in with your existing landscape.
Build the Storage Area:
After you have designed the storage area, it’s time to start building. You will need basic tools such as a saw, hammer, and drill, as well as the materials you selected. Follow your design plan step-by-step, and customize the storage area to fit your specific needs. You can add shelving, hooks for bags, and other features that will make your trash can storage area more functional.
Final Touches:
Once you have built your hidden trash can storage area, you can add final touches to make it look more attractive and functional. For example, you can add a gate for easy access, landscaping to enhance the look, or labels for recycling and trash. Keep in mind that ongoing maintenance will be required to keep your storage area in good condition.
FAQs:
Q: Which of these ideas is the most affordable?
A: The most affordable option would be to use a DIY trash can enclosure made from pallets or lattice.
Q: Are these ideas secure enough to prevent animals from getting into my trash cans?
A: Most of these ideas can be made secure enough to prevent animals from getting into your trash cans, but it is recommended to use a latch or lock to ensure maximum security.
Q: Can I hire a professional to help me with any of these ideas?
A: Yes, you can hire a professional landscaper or handyman to help you with any of these ideas, especially if you are not comfortable with DIY projects.
Q: Which idea is the best for improving air quality in my yard?
A: Using landscaping to hide your trash cans can be the best option for improving air quality in your yard as plants and trees help absorb pollutants and release oxygen.
Q: Can I customize any of these ideas to fit the design of my home?
A: Yes, most of these ideas can be customized to fit the design of your home, especially the DIY options like using lattice or building a trash can enclosure with pallets. You can also choose to paint or stain the enclosure to match your home exterior.
Q: How much time and effort is required for the landscaping option?
A: The amount of time and effort required for the landscaping option depends on the size of your yard and the plants you choose. It can take a few months to a year for the plants to grow and cover the trash cans completely, and regular maintenance is required to keep them looking their best.
Q: Can I use any type of material to build a hidden trash can storage area?
A: There are various materials that can be used to build a hidden trash can storage area, such as wood, metal, and plastic. The choice of material will depend on your budget, personal preference, and the durability needed for the outdoor environment.
Q: How much space do I need to build a hidden trash can storage area?
A: The amount of space needed to build a hidden trash can storage area depends on the size and number of trash cans you want to store. Measure the dimensions of your trash cans and add extra space for easy access and ventilation.
Conclusion
Hiding trash cans outdoors doesn’t have to be a difficult task. By using one of these five real-life ideas, you can keep your yard looking clean and attractive while keeping your trash cans out of sight.
Whether you prefer a DIY approach or hiring a professional, these ideas offer a range of options to suit your needs and budget.