Cybertruck Owners Targeted by “Trash Can Tagging” Trend

By: Cliff Stonewell

In the world of car culture, Jeep owners have long embraced the tradition of “ducking,” where rubber ducks are left on vehicles as a sign of community and appreciation. But Tesla Cybertruck owners aren’t feeling quite as loved. Instead of ducks, they’re finding miniature trash cans left on their vehicles in a new viral trend dubbed “Trash Can Tagging.”

The trend has quickly gained traction on social media, with critics using the tiny bins to poke fun at the Cybertruck’s divisive design.

How It Started

The phenomenon began in Los Angeles, where someone left a bright green miniature trash can on the hood of a Cybertruck at a Tesla meetup. The moment was shared on TikTok with the caption, “Where this belongs.” Within days, imitators across the country joined in, leaving trash cans on Cybertrucks in parking lots, driveways, and charging stations.

Social media exploded with videos and photos of trash can placements, paired with captions like “Recycling Tesla’s bold ideas” and “For your collection of bad decisions.”

Why Trash Cans?

While Jeep’s “ducking” tradition celebrates camaraderie among owners, “Trash Can Tagging” takes a less flattering approach. The miniature bins are a critique of the Cybertruck’s angular, utilitarian design, which has been compared to everything from a toaster to a child’s drawing of a car.

The trash cans, small but symbolically heavy, represent what detractors think of the futuristic vehicle: “Trash meets trash.” Fans of the trend have even customized the bins with stickers that read, “For Elon’s scraps” or “Your futuristic landfill.”

Cybertruck Owners React

Cybertruck owners have had mixed reactions to the trend. Some are furious, calling it disrespectful. “It’s one thing to have an opinion, but leaving trash cans on my property? That’s just rude,” said one frustrated owner in Houston.

Others, however, are taking it in stride. “I mean, it’s kind of funny,” admitted an Austin-based owner. “I kept the little trash can they left—it’s on my desk now. At least they’re creative.”

Elon Musk Responds

Tesla CEO Elon Musk, never one to shy away from internet-fueled chaos, addressed the trend with his signature humor. “Better trash cans than actual trash,” he tweeted, adding, “Cybertruck: Built tough enough for criticism.”

His lighthearted response only fueled more memes, with one viral post showing a Cybertruck parked at a landfill with the caption, “Elon’s new test track.”

Get Your Own Trash Can

If you want to (respectfully) join the trend or just have a good laugh, miniature trash cans are available on Amazon. They’re perfect as a desk accessory, storage solution, or conversation starter. Check out these mini trash cans here!

Disclaimer: The Daily Throb and The Houston Throb do not support touching other people’s property or placing trash cans—or any other items—on any vehicle, especially those created by Daddy Musk. Always practice respect and good judgment when engaging in social media trends.

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