Litter Receptacle Lid Options

The use and function of a litter receptacle can vary based on the type of lid and instructional graphics that are on top. To break down the options and uses for trash can lids, this article is to instruct and inform you on how to choose the right covering for your outdoor trash disposal needs.

Standard Lids

A standard flat lid is included with every litter receptacle purchase from Keystone Ridge Designs. They can be square or round depending on the trash can shape. With a 12” diameter opening, this lid offers an industry standard for trash can opening size. It is the go-to standard because it is not too small to make trash disposal difficult but also not too large to encourage unwanted access to the contents inside. These standard lids are typically removable for emptying purposes but are secured to the trash can with a lanyard.

Weather-Protectant Lids and Covered Lids

To provide a cover on a litter receptacle opening and protect the trash contents, multiple options are available. A covered lid is often selected for reasons such as to prevent rain and weather from getting inside, to provide a deterrent from large items being stuffed into the container or to restrict access to the trash. Keystone Ridge Designs offers an elevated lid, a dome lid, and a closed dome with galvanized door option to serve this function. Also, some receptacles work as an all-in-one unit with the lid covering incorporated into the design as a permanent feature. (see Side Opening Cans below)

Side Opening Can and All-In-One Unites

Certain litter receptacle styles are created to be complete units with a permanent protective covering included. These all-in-one trash cans offer a non-removable cover designed into its overall function. Side-opening trash cans and hinge-door cans are popular options for this purpose. The lids and top coverings stay permanently in place avoiding theft or movement and it also give you access to the trash through a door on the side for easier emptying.

Recycling Lids

Litter receptacles can easily be converted into recycling receptacles or sorting systems just by selecting a recycling lid for the top of a standard trash can. A recycling lid typically has a small 4.5” opening accompanied by instructional graphics such as RECYCLE, CANS ONLY, or BOTTLES ONLY and can include recycle symbols. Many purchasers choose a bright blue powder coat color as another visual indicator of the recycling function of the unit. You can also choose a recycle lid with a rubber baffle to further encourage proper disposal practices while closing off the contents inside.

Combination Lids

When you need both trash and recycling but want to save space, a combination split lid and liner may be your solution. A recycle/trash split lid along with a split liner can be added onto a standard trash unit to create a dual-function receptacle.

Ash Disposal Lids

When litter receptacles are placed in areas that also need to accommodate smokers and cigarette disposal, lids can include ash trays. Keystone Ridge Designs offers both an ash moat lid with a circular ring of ash filler or a small ash tray inserted into the top of an elevated lid or dome lid.

Oversized Lids

A unique item that was inspired by customer requests, is the 18” oversized flat lid – also known as the pizza box lid. This helps to address the problem of when large items are being set on top of trash cans because they can’t fit through the provided hole. These oversized lids allow for awkward shaped items to find their way through.

Custom Graphics

Remember that with any lid, custom function or even property branding can be defined with custom graphics. Establish a compost container, define spaces for newspaper or glass only or highlight your city’s sorting initiative. We’ve even seen containers created for cemetery flowers and vases. The options are endless with the ability to apply custom decals to any of the above-mentioned lids or by working with our team to design your own custom trash can cover.