I’ve been exploring how to integrate smart home automation into my daily routines, and one area that always seemed a bit forgettable was waste collection reminders. After some research and experimentation, I managed to create a seamless system that notifies me to place the trash bins out before bed and reminds me in the morning if I forget. Here’s how I did it and some tips I picked up along the way.
First, I set up a flow using the Trashcan Reminder 2.0 app. It’s incredibly user-friendly and allows you to customize notifications based on your waste collection schedule. I configured it to check my specific pickup days and set it to notify me around bedtime. The app integrates smoothly with my existing smart devices, including Google Home and Alexa, making it versatile for any setup.
For the bedtime trigger, I used a simple ‘Bedtime Activated’ flow. This could be a manual switch or even a voice command, depending on your preference. When activated, the flow checks if there’s a scheduled pickup the next day. If so, it sends a notification through my smart speakers and displays a reminder image on my connected screens. It’s a subtle yet effective way to ensure I don’t forget.
In the morning, I added another layer of reminder. Using a ‘House Activation’ trigger, which I control through a virtual switch, the system checks if there’s a pending waste collection day. If I missed the bedtime reminder, it sends a push notification to my phone. This ensures I’m always informed, even if I’m running late.
One tip I learned is to use virtual switches for triggers. They offer flexibility and allow you to manage multiple devices with a single command. Also, organizing your flows with clear names and descriptions makes maintenance much easier down the line.
This setup has been a game-changer for me, turning a mundane task into something effortlessly integrated into my smart home ecosystem. I hope this helps others looking to streamline their routines too!