How to Build Can Crusher

A can crusher can be a very useful tool around the house. It has the ability to crush cans utilizing your weight. Some aluminum cans are thick and can actually be difficult to crush with your foot.
Sometimes balance issues are involved, and the sticky mess that is tracked into the house from your feet can be difficult to clean up. Here is an example of a very simple way to make your own can crusher.

Things You'll Need

• 2 pieces of wood
• Heavy duty door hinge
• Screws or nails
• Screwdriver or hammer

Instructions

1. Take your 2 pieces of wood and make sure they are the same length. This helps with leverage. The type of wood does not matter, but remember, the stronger the wood the longer it will last. Staining and sealing the wood would help keep the can crusher protected against the elements.

2. Attach the door hinge to the end of the two pieces of wood, hinge side out. Think of an aligator mouth. The picture above is a good visual aid of what you are trying to achieve.

3. Attach the bottom piece of wood to the porch or other stable structure. This will help keep the crusher in place. If you want a temporary structure, then use nails. If you want a permanent fixture, use screws. The screws will also help keep the can crusher from rising off the floor board.

Tips & Warnings

• You can add a screw through the top and bottom pieces of wood so they protrude just slightly through the other side. This will aid you in keeping the can stable as you crush it.