Since the dawn of civilization, man has created rubbish. Admittedly, waste was minimal in early times and presented no real disposal problems. As it consisted mainly of degradable materials such as vegetable remnants and bones, ancient refuse was either recycled or composted. Items that couldn’t be reused or broken down such as clay pots were scattered away or buried.

As time progressed, humans evolved into more industrial creatures. The manufacture and consumption of new materials presented mankind with a fresh dilemma. Rubbish needed to be maintained, but how?

Forced by disease and pestilence, waste management systems arose to eliminate problem trash. In order for the systems to function properly, individual households and businesses would need a way to store and transport litter to designated elimination areas. The days of sweeping rubbish to the side were over and a new era of personal responsibility emerged.

Rubbish bins became commonplace in homes and institutions. These specialized containers enabled citizens to effectively store accumulated garbage and allowed for easy transfer of its contents to dumping sites. Garbage cans revolutionized waste management into an easy affair.

In present day, the idea that someone would not have a garbage can is preposterous. Most households have at least one in every room. Such high demand for rubbish bins has sent the trash can industry into overload. Trash bins vary in shape, size, and color. General sizes of residential household rubbish bins include 4gallon, 8gallon, 13gallon, and 32gallon. Most trash cans require liners, often called trash bags. Trash bags help to reduce bacteria and make emptying the can effortless. Most bins are made of highly durable plastic, but can be created from wood or metal.

Although most garbage cans are used for trash, there are other tasks in which the rubbish bins can be useful.

RECYCLING: In today’s society, the rubbish bin has transformed into a way to help preserve the planet. Many homes employ the use of trash cans to sort and hold different varieties of recyclables such as aluminum and plastic.

ANIMAL FEED: Lidded garbage cans allow for ample storage of dog, cat and horse feed. Trash cans work well for this purpose as it locks out moisture and pests.

PLANTERS: Depending on the size of the trash can, it may be used indoor or outdoor as a plant or tree pot. When using the can as a planter, it is a good idea to poke or drill small holes in the bottom for excess water drainage.

Rubbish bins can be purchased online or in stores everywhere. Depending on the model, price will vary. Top brands for trash cans include Rubbermaid and Georgia-Pacific, but can be found under many other manufacturers.

While the simple garbage can made taking out the trash easier, the invention of the trash compactor brought managing waste to a whole new level. Created in the 1970’s for home use, the trash compactor was a space saving, built in appliance that stored and crushed rubbish. The purpose for the compactor is to maximize the amount of trash that could go into a single bag. Compounding garbage not only saves money on bags, but also reduces bulk in common dumping areas.