Abstract: A trash receptacle with a slowly closing lid is provided. A band of elastomeric material is provided around the rim of the trash receptacle opening to soften contact between the lid and the receptacle. The lid of the trash receptacle may be opened by depressing a foot pedal. When it is desired to close the trash receptacle lid, the foot pedal may be released. This causes the lid to close under its own weight. The lid has a damper arrangement that retards movement of the lid as the lid closes. The slow movement of the lid that is provided by the damper arrangement allows the lid to close quietly and safely by itself.

Abstract: A covered container having a step-on mechanism which allows "hands free" opening of the lid of the container by stepping on a foot pad. The step-on mechanism includes a safety mechanism which prevents opening of the lid of the container unless the safety mechanism is repositioned. The preferred embodiment includes a rotatable oblong member adjacent the foot pad. The oblong member is maintained in a vertical position to block downward movement of the foot pad. To open the lid of the container, the oblong member must be rotated so that its upper end is above the foot pad and both the oblong member and the foot pad may be depressed. It is not evident, at first glance, how to release the safety mechanism, thereby making the container relatively child-proof, and ideal for disposal of possibly harmful objects.