How to add a foot pedal to the famous kmart laundry hamper?

How to Add a Foot Pedal to the Kmart Laundry Hamper: A DIY Guide

The Kmart laundry hamper, with its iconic design and practical functionality, has been a staple in many households for decades. While its original design is already convenient for collecting and storing dirty laundry, a foot pedal option would take it to the next level. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of modifying a Kmart laundry hamper to add a foot pedal, allowing you to easily open and close the hamper with your foot, keeping your hands free for more important tasks.

Materials Needed:

• Kmart laundry hamper (with a sturdy base and corners)
• Foot pedal mechanism (available at most hardware stores or online)
• Wood glue
• Wood screws
• Drill
• Sandpaper
• Paint or varnish (optional)

Step 1: Prepare the Hamper

Start by disassembling the hamper’s original lid or hinged design, if applicable. This will give you access to the internal structure of the hamper. Set aside any parts you won’t be using, as you’ll need to create a new attachment point for the foot pedal.

Step 2: Create a Mounting Point for the Foot Pedal

Using a drill, create two holes on either side of the hamper’s base, about 1-2 inches apart. These holes will serve as the mounting points for the foot pedal. Make sure the holes are large enough to accept the bolt or screw that will secure the pedal.

Step 3: Attach the Foot Pedal

Take the foot pedal mechanism and attach it to the hamper’s base using the holes created in Step 2. Use wood glue and wood screws to secure the pedal in place. Make sure it’s firmly attached and level. You may need to adjust the position of the pedals slightly to ensure a smooth operation.

Step 4: Reinforce the Attachment Points

Using wood glue, apply a generous amount to the areas where the foot pedal attaches to the base. This will help reinforce the bond and prevent the attachment points from coming loose over time.

Step 5: Sand and Refinish (optional)

If you plan to paint or varnish the hamper, now is the time to do so. Sand the entire surface to smooth out any rough edges or bumps. Apply a coat of paint or varnish to match the original finish or an updated design of your choice.

Step 6: Reassemble the Hamper

Reattach the lid or hinged design, if applicable. Test the foot pedal mechanism to ensure it operates smoothly and efficiently.

Tips and Variations

• Consider adding a rubber or plastic non-slip strip to the bottom of the foot pedal for improved grip and stability.
• If you’re not comfortable with drilling into the base, you can attach the foot pedal to the sides of the hamper using adhesive-backed tape or strong adhesive.
• For a more advanced solution, you can purchase a pre-assembled foot operated hamper lid hinge, available at most hardware stores.
• If you’re not comfortable with the DIY process, consider consulting a professional handyman or contractor.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to add a foot pedal to your Kmart laundry hamper, transforming it into a convenient and user-friendly storage solution. With your hands free, you’ll be able to focus on more important tasks, like doing laundry!