Summary

The Ikea Rationell compost bin has served me nicely as a sink-side disposal bin, but when we lost one of the clips holding it open, I thought it'd be more fun to develop a hands-free solution instead.

So here is a simple step pedal that turns the Rationell hands-free. Not the most elegant solution, but printing is minimal and it works :)

Check it out >> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zTeJ5DSyyr0

Instructions

You will need:

2 x M3 12mm screws (or equivalent)
1 length of fishing line (or string)
1 x small screw
some small weights
short length of twisty wire (for gardening)

ASSEMBLY:

Attach “Lid hook” to lid of IKEA RATIONELL bin
Screw “Rounded L guide” to frame of bin, add bit of wire through two holes (this provides a “cap” to prevent the line from getting off track)
Attach “Pedal” to “Shoe” with M3 screws (my draft version had holes too small in the shoe so I used bits of gear shafts instead)
Connect “Lid hook” to “Pedal”. Bin should be closed and Pedal in upright position — adjust to suit preference. When pedal is depressed, the bin lid should open sufficiently.

If the lid does not close when you release the pedal -- because like me you put bags inside causing friction with the lid -- then tie weights (like bolts and nuts) to the lid hook to provide the push needed.

Ikea Rationell Bin Hack (Step Pedal)