Prevent Silverware From Being Thrown Away With A Magnetic Trash Can Retriver

Whether you own a bar, cafeteria, or restaurant, you’ve probably made unnecessary expenses replacing flatware that was accidentally thrown away. Between both customers and employees, throwing away flatware is inevitable, especially if it's buried in garbage.

Flatware can be expensive, and not having enough can slow down your day-to-day operations. The good news is you can create a trash can retriever to collect flatware before it gets thrown away. No more unnecessary expenditures!

Magnetic Trash Can Retriever

Because neodymium magnets are the strongest commercially available permanent magnets and resist demagnetization well, they are ideal for trash can retrievers. They are brittle, though, so mount them where they won't take hard impacts.

There are two ways to create a magnetic trash can retriever. The first option is to use a trash can lid with a slight slope and attach 3/4" x 3/4" x 1/4" block neodymium magnets onto the reverse side. When people throw away their garbage, the retriever will catch the flatware before it lands in the garbage can. Note: The number of block magnets depends on the size of the trash can lid. The lid material also sits between the magnets and the flatware and lowers the pull force, so make sure the magnets are strong enough for the thickness of your lid.

The second option is to place a series of 2" x 1" x 1/4" ring magnets on an iron pole and mount it onto the interior of the trashcan. Then, the retriever will catch the flatware as it falls into the garbage can. Before you dispose of the garbage, just remove the magnetic retriever and collect the loose flatware. Note: The number of ring magnets depends on the size of the trashcan and iron pole. Large neodymium magnets can snap together hard enough to pinch skin, so handle them carefully, and keep them away from pacemakers.

It’s important to note that not all flatware is magnetic. Common 18/8 and 18/10 stainless steel (austenitic, such as 304) is mostly non-magnetic even though it contains nickel, and aluminum or plastic pieces won't be attracted either. We recommend purchasing 18/0 flatware, which is magnetic, if you don’t currently have magnetic flatware. It will help you save money long-term instead of consistently replacing non-magnetic flatware.

Purchase Retriever Magnets From Apex

At Apex Magnets, we sell a variety of neodymium magnets that are ideal for creating magnetic trash can retrievers, such as block, disc, and bar magnets. You can also order custom magnets to match the size dimensions and pull strength needed. Just fill out our online magnet request form, and we’ll provide you with a quote for free within 1-2 business days.

If you’re interested in learning more about ways you can use Apex Magnets in your business, be sure to follow us on LinkedIn.