Introduction: Rat-proof and Raccoon-proof Magnetically Sealed Trash Can
I was tired of cleaning up mess spilled across my driveway when critters managed to get into the trash can and rummaged through for food.
Supplies
In addition to a drill, the critical thing this project needs is a set of high power magnets which are coated in plastic or rubber. The coating is needed to keep them from chipping when they slam into each other. Typical neodymium-iron-boron magnets are very brittle and won't survive regular bashing. Ideally the magnets are countersunk on one side so that they can sit against each other flush.
KJ magnets has a great set: https://www.kjmagnetics.com/proddetail.asp?prod=BCC4DCSPC-BLK
Other needed gear are some bolts with shoulders that'll fit into the countersinking, matched nuts, and some washer to distribute the load a little better across the plastic. Finally a marker to identify where to drill holes.
And a trash bin that has a flip-over lid.
Step 1: Mark Holes
Evenly space and mark where you want the magnets to go.
Step 2: Drill Holes
Drill holes through the top of the trash can all the way through to the edge on the other
Step 3: Attach Magnets
A couple of pointers:
- You want the magnets to touch each other, so place them appropriately
- Use the countersunk bolts to allow the magnet to have a flat surface to meet
- Use the washers to distribute the load of the nut so you don't distort the plastic of the trash can
- Make sure you get the polarity correct – you want the magnets to stick to each other, not repel
Step 4: Test Setup
Stick something smelly and tasty into your bin and see if critters get in.
I took particular joy in seeing attempts to get in with scratch and claw marks around the edges.