It's a frustrating and messy problem that so many of us face: you walk outside to take out the trash, only to find the contents of your garbage can strewn all over the driveway. Raccoons, squirrels, possums, and even stray cats are clever and persistent when it comes to finding a free meal. The good news is that you don't have to surrender your bin to these nightly visitors. With a few strategic changes, you can secure your trash and enjoy a cleaner, more peaceful outdoor space.
The most effective strategy is to make your trash can physically impossible to open. A simple and inexpensive tool is a bungee cord. Stretch one or two heavy-duty bungee cords across the lid, hooking them onto the bin's handles. For even more security, consider a locking lid. Many modern animal-proof trash cans come with built-in locking mechanisms that require human hands to open. If you're using a standard can, you can also drill a hole on each side of the lid and the can itself, then secure them with a carabiner or a sturdy lock.
Where you place your trash can plays a huge role. If possible, keep your bins inside a locked garage or a sturdy shed until the morning of pickup. If outdoor storage is your only option, try to move the cans away from fences, trees, or walls that animals can climb. Placing them in an open area makes it harder for creatures to approach unseen.
Sometimes, the best defense is a good scent offense. Animals are driven by their powerful sense of smell, so you can use that against them. Sprinkling a generous amount of cayenne pepper or spraying a mixture of vinegar and water around the bin can deter them, as most animals find these smells irritating. You can also try placing ammonia-soaked rags in a disposable container near the cans, or using commercial animal repellent granules. Just remember to reapply these solutions after it rains.
Finally, think about what you're throwing away. The smell of meat, fish, and other strong-smelling food waste is a major attractant. If you can, double-bag these items before placing them in the bin. For the most potent scraps, consider freezing them until trash day arrives. This simple step dramatically reduces the odor that draws animals in from blocks away.
By combining a physical barrier with smart placement and odor control, you can win the battle against backyard pests. A secured lid and a clean can are your best bets for a trash area that is no longer a free-for-all buffet.