Don't Toss An Old Trash Can Lid — Turn It Into A DIY Bird Bath With Concrete Blocks

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Many garbage cans these days are large plastic rectangular totes designed to be picked up by the robotic arm on garbage trucks. However, you still see plenty of the older-style metal cans around. They can be great for storage, but that's far from their only use. Before you send an old trash can lid to the recycling bin, take a tip from Lori Kay Brown on Facebook and give it a second look: with a few concrete blocks, you can turn it into a simple, budget-friendly bird bath that gives backyard birds a place to drink and bathe.

If you want to try making this DIY bird bath but don't have a lid, you can often find them at home improvement stores. Stainless steel and plastic should both work well for this project, but be sure to avoid zinc, as it may be harmful to the birds. Whatever material you choose, make sure the lid is clean, intact, and free of sharp edges or peeling coatings. Of course, if you can't find a good garbage lid but still want to create a nice spot for birds, a variety of objects can be made into DIY bird baths, including old bundt pans.

Once you've found your perfect basin, you'll need to track down some concrete blocks. These will function as the stand for your bath. It's up to you exactly how many to use, but you'll want to make sure there are enough to create a stable base that won't wobble or tip.  

Once you have your lid and your concrete blocks, you're ready to assemble your bird bath. Begin by finding the perfect spot in your yard. Choose a location with some shade to slow algae growth and ensure the water doesn't get too hot. You'll also want to make sure the birds have some low branches or bushes nearby to hide in. After all, locating it in the wrong spot is one of the main reasons your feathered friends might avoid your bird bath. Once you've found the ideal spot, level the ground if necessary and set up your blocks or bricks in a circle to hold the lid securely. Test the base before adding water, and adjust the blocks if the lid rocks or shifts.

Place your lid on the base, then add some small rocks and pebbles to provide a grippy surface for the birds. Use a garden hose to fill it until there are about 2 inches of water in the bottom. If you want to make your DIY a little more dynamic, consider installing a solar water fountain. The added movement will make the water easier for birds to spot and may also help discourage mosquitoes from using the surface as a breeding site. Something like the Mademax solar bird bath fountain pump could be ideal. Now it's ready for your feathered friends to enjoy. Just don't forget to clean the bird bath and change the water regularly.