Discovering your trash can has been stolen is frustrating and inconvenient. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies you can implement to make your next bin much more secure and deter potential thieves.
First, consider the placement of your bin. If possible, keep it in a locked garage or shed until collection day. If you must leave it outside, position it in a well-lit area, ideally within view of a security camera. This simple step makes it a less appealing target.
Investing in a physical locking mechanism is one of the most reliable solutions. You can purchase a bungee cord with hooks designed to latch the lid shut, or a specialized trash can lock that secures the lid to the body of the bin. For a more permanent fix, you can anchor your trash can. Drill a hole in the bottom of a plastic bin and use a heavy-duty chain and padlock to secure it to a sturdy post or a fixed anchor point in the ground.
Another effective deterrent is making your property less attractive to thieves. Engrave your house number or surname prominently on the bin with permanent marker or paint. This makes it easily identifiable to you and neighbors, and harder for a thief to resell or claim as their own. Motion-sensor lights near your bins can also startle and scare off anyone approaching with ill intent.
For recurring issues, a wireless, battery-operated GPS tracker placed inside the bin can help you locate it if it's moved. Finally, building a simple wooden or vinyl enclosure around your bins can keep them out of sight and add an extra layer of difficulty for a would-be thief. By combining a few of these methods, you can significantly increase the security of your outdoor trash can and enjoy greater peace of mind.