How to Build Aluminum Can Crushers

Stain your wood so your can crusher will last longer.

To make your aluminum can recycling efforts easier, consider using an aluminum can crusher. Not only can a crusher speed up the work, it will also quickly reduce the space necessary to store the aluminum cans. There are a number of methods to use to crush cans: A crusher can be pressing into it from both sides, or it can smash the can from the top. There are mechanical aluminum can crushers on the market, but if you want to save some money, a manual aluminum can crusher is easy to build.

Things You'll Need

• 2 pieces of wood
• Door hinge
• Screws
• Screwdriver
• Wood stain
• Wood sealer

Instructions

1. Find two pieces of wood of the same length. While no specific type of wood is recommended, keep in mind that the stronger the wood, the longer it can endure the work. Stain and seal the wood to preserve it from the environment.

2. Fit the door hinge to one end of the two pieces of wood, with the hinge side out, and firmly screw it in place. Your aluminum can crusher should resemble an alligator mouth.

3. Place the aluminum can crusher at a stable structure to keep it in place -- such as on the porch or a sturdy table in the kitchen. Once you find the perfect base, screw the aluminum can crusher to it.

References

• The Quest for Less; "Designing the Ultimate Can Crusher"
• Earnmoneyrecycling.com; "Use a Can Crusher when Recycling Aluminum Cans"; January 2008