Trash Can Guard

Background

We have a built-in trash drawer, which seems to be common in newer builds. It's essentially a low drawer with a tall cabinet panel attached that holds two standard trash cans (i.e., easily holds a 13-gallon tall kitchen trash bag).

The concept is excellent. It keeps the cans concealed in a dedicated spot so they don't take up additional living space out in the open. However, there is one major flaw in my particular situation. The drawer is either not centered on the opening or the opening is sized incorrectly. As a result, the lip of the can rubs against the opening on one side, and when there is a bag over the lip, it gets torn up with typical use. When the bag is full and ready to be taken out, the drawstring either rips out while trying to remove the bag or tears off on the way to the trash bin. If this has ever happened to you, just once, you can understand the frustration when it happens every time. To remedy the situation, I designed this "guard" to cover the lip and bag of the trash can where the two meet until the builder comes up with a permanent solution.

Relevant Information

Disclaimer: I did not purchase the cans; they came with the house, and there is no brand. I'm sure my builder bought them in bulk from some random site. Therefore, I started from scratch and did a lot of guessing and checking with test prints until I got something good enough. So, don't expect this to fit like a glove.

The rough dimensions of the cans are 14 ¾" x 10 5/8" x 21 ¾". The width of the lip is roughly ½". This fits the shorter (10 5/8") side. The left side of the can was my problem area, but it is symmetrical, so if you rotate it, it should also work on the right.

Printing

I have had to print this a few times as it tends to get lost (or more likely thrown away). I improve it a little bit each time. This version (v5.2) has been used for several months and hasn't warranted any improvements. If I do come up with any enhancements, I will add the new version to the files. If you use the STL file, flip it over so the solid portion sits on the plate. This configuration doesn't require any special print settings--no supports or brim. The 3MF and GCODE files are already oriented correctly. It will fit on the XL in any direction. On the regular MK3 size plates, it has to be diagonal. I'm not sure about the MINI, but my guess is it won't fit. Since it's for the trash can I've used whatever spool of PLA has the least amount left, so it's been a different type each time with no issues.

More Ramblings

I decided to remove the trash bag from the can for the photos to spare you from my unsightly trash. My current trash bags are also black, like the print, so the white can provides better contrast.

Second Disclaimer: I realize my situation is incredibly unique, and this design likely won't apply to anyone else. But I still felt the need to post it in the off chance it does. Plus, I'm pretty proud of it. My wife is no longer easily impressed by the things I come up with, and in her words, "This is the best thing you have ever printed. This stupid little thing has changed our lives." She's not wrong. We don't argue over whose turn it is to take out the trash or stuff it to the max to avoid taking it out and making the situation worse. So, even if it doesn't get used, maybe it will inspire another small but life-changing idea. And if it does get used, please leave a comment/make saying so.

Third Disclaimer: I can already hear the environmentalists churning up comments about how we shouldn't have so much trash, to the point where this is such an issue. Let me put your minds at ease. Yes, we recycle and compost, and yes, to the fullest extent possible in our area. I probably take out the recycling just as often as the trash, but it doesn't require bags, so it's not an issue. I'll also add that in addition to the 6 full-time residents, my wife runs a small baking business out of our kitchen. So, please save your energy with the environmental concerns.