How to Take Out the Trash in a Wheelchair

Taking out the trash can be tough for wheelchair users and, if not done correctly, can be messy business. Here’s some tips that can make it easier.

Always Double Bag

Odds are, you’re going to be carrying the trash bag on your lap when you take the trash out. To prevent any kind of leakage from the bag, double bag it.

Cover Your Lap with the Second Bag

Before you lift the bag out of the trashcan, cover your lap in a second trash bag. This will make it a lot easier to wrap the first bag in the second one and it’ll catch anything that might happen to leak from the bag as you lift it out of the trashcan.

Use a Trash Box

If the trash bag is hard to carry because of the shape, use a trash box: any square container that easily fits on your lap and that you’re comfortable sticking bags of trash in. I used to use an old plastic storage bin that I lost the lid to. The even shape of the box will help keep the bag balanced and prevent the bag from rubbing against your wheels.

Use a Trash Bin With Wheels

Once the trash is in the trashcan, the next hardest part is getting the trashcan to the street. For this, you’re going to need a trash bin with wheels. When it’s time to take out the trash, tip the bin backwards onto its wheels, making sure to keep it centered with the front of your chair. With your free hand, push the chair and the bin towards the street. If you find yourself losing control of the bin, simply tip the bin upwards back onto its base.

Take the Trash Out More Often

If you find the trash bags hard to lift out of the trash can, try taking out the trash more often. It means you’ll go through trash bags more often but it’s better than struggling to take the trash out.