Introduction: Hack Your Garbage Can to Use Grocery Store Plastic Bags
tldr; Simply install small 'Command' hooks UPSIDE DOWN to hold the handles of the plastic bags, keeping the bag from falling inside the can!
Step 1: Center Hook Upside-down and Trace Outline With Pencil
- Put the hook about 4" from the rim of your can and draw an outline around it.
(soooo many jokes to be made here...) 4" worked perfectly for mine, but everyone's different. ;) - Use rough sandpaper to scratch up and the area inside the outline you just drew and the underside of the plastic hook.
This is a technique to ensure the glue has something to 'bite' onto. If you don't have sandpaper, scoring crosshatches with a utility knife also works well. - If you want it to look really pro, I recommend erasing the pencil mark and masking the area with painter's tape.
Why not just use the double-sided mounting tape that comes with 3M Command Hooks?
I did that at first, but then they started falling off after a couple weeks. I recommend a more permanent glue like contact cement, "Shoe Goo", "Goop", or similar. I used contact cement because it dries very quickly.
Step 2: Apply Contact Cement
*** Wear gloves when using contact cement *** The stuff is harder to remove than a tattoo.
- Carefully apply contact cement to the outlined area.
- Recklessly apply contact cement to the underside of the hook.
- Let dry for 10-20 minutes.
Step 3: Press the Two Pieces Together Firmly
When the glue is firm but still 'tacky' - as in, it is still sticky but isn't liquid and doesn't come off onto your finger when touched...
- You only get one shot at this, so be careful!
- Align the top edge of the hook and the area painted with contact cement and press the two pieces together.
Step 4: Repeat for the Other Side and Test Drive!
- Glue a hook to the opposite side and give it a test!
- Repeat for any other containers you have around the house to hold recyclables, compost, crying babies, you name it!