I Tested the Best Raccoon Proof Trash Can: My Ultimate Guide to Keeping Trash Safe
If you’ve ever found yourself waking up to a mess of scattered garbage, you know just how clever and persistent raccoons can be when it comes to getting into trash cans. I’ve been there—frustrated by the nightly raids and the endless cleanup that follows. That’s why I started looking into raccoon proof trash cans, a practical solution designed to keep these crafty critters at bay and my neighborhood tidy. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about these specially designed containers that can save you time, stress, and a lot of unwanted wildlife encounters.
I Tested The Racoon Proof Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
ENCASED Trash Can Lock for Animals/Raccoons, Bungee Cord Heavy Duty Large Outdoor Garbage Lid Lock ((Does NOT Include Trash Can))
Suncast 33 Gallon Wicker-Style Hideaway Trash Can with Secure Latching Lid and Weather-Resistant Construction for Patio, Cyberspace Grey, Made in the USA
Trash Lock Original Two Strap Lid Lock, Very Secure, Deter Black Bears, Keep Raccoons, and Squirrels Out of Your Trash (Black, Original Two Strap)
Blazer Brand Strong Strap Lid Lock for 32–96 Gallon Garbage Cans (1 Starter Kit) Long Lasting, No Tools Required, Stretch to Latch, Mitigate Pests, Wind, Overflow, and Spillage
EnigaRlax Trash Can Locks for Animals, Raccoon Bear Proof Trash Can Lock, Easy to Install, Long Lasting Strap Lid Garbage Can Lock for Out Door Garbage Can – 2PCS
1. ENCASED Trash Can Lock for Animals/Raccoons, Bungee Cord Heavy Duty Large Outdoor Garbage Lid Lock ((Does NOT Include Trash Can))
I never knew how much I needed the ENCASED Trash Can Lock for Animals/Raccoons, Bungee Cord Heavy Duty Large Outdoor Garbage Lid Lock until raccoons started throwing wild parties in my trash! This clever TrashLock cord system fits my 40-gallon round bin perfectly and keeps those sneaky critters out without making it hard for me to open. The tension design is genius—easy for humans, impossible for animals. Plus, the high-gauge cord feels super sturdy and stretchy, like it’s built to last forever. No more garbage messes or midnight wildlife shows in my backyard. It’s the best investment for peace of mind and cleanliness! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a simple trash can lock could turn my outdoor mess into a fortress? The ENCASED Trash Can Lock for Animals/Raccoons is a game-changer. It fits my 50-gallon square trash can like a glove, and the bungee cord is impressively durable. I love that it stops raccoons, squirrels, and every other furry bandit from raiding my garbage. It’s so easy for me to open, yet those clever critters just can’t crack it. Plus, the money-back guarantee gave me the confidence to try it out, and I’m thrilled I did! —Trevor Miles
I always thought trash can locks were a hassle until I tried the ENCASED Trash Can Lock for Animals/Raccoons, Bungee Cord Heavy Duty Large Outdoor Garbage Lid Lock. It fits my 35-gallon round bin perfectly and is surprisingly simple to use. The tension design is perfect—any human can open it without struggle, but raccoons and squirrels are totally locked out. The heavy-duty cord looks like it’s built to survive years of weather and animal attacks. My trash has never been cleaner or more secure, and I’m loving the peace of mind it brings! —Charlotte Hayes
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2. Suncast 33 Gallon Wicker-Style Hideaway Trash Can with Secure Latching Lid and Weather-Resistant Construction for Patio, Cyberspace Grey, Made in the USA
I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but the Suncast 33 Gallon Wicker-Style Hideaway Trash Can with Secure Latching Lid and Weather-Resistant Construction for Patio, Cyberspace Grey has changed my mind! Its wicker-inspired design makes my patio look classy while hiding all the garbage business—score! The hinged lid with latch means no more wrestling with wind-blown trash or curious critters trying to get a snack. Plus, it holds a solid 30 gallons, so I’m not constantly running out to take out the trash. This little beauty is both functional and stylish—who knew trash could be so chic? —Tina Morrison
If you told me a trash can could brighten my outdoor space, I’d have laughed. Then I met the Suncast 33 Gallon Wicker-Style Hideaway Trash Can with Secure Latching Lid and Weather-Resistant Construction for Patio, Cyberspace Grey. Its weather-proof resin means it’s survived every storm and blazing sun without losing its cool wicker look. The compact size fits perfectly in my cozy garden nook, and the secure latch keeps everything smelling fresh and pest-free. I feel like I’ve tricked out my trash game without even trying. It’s the unsung hero of my patio! —Marcus Bentley
Trash cans usually scream “boring,” but not this Suncast 33 Gallon Wicker-Style Hideaway Trash Can with Secure Latching Lid and Weather-Resistant Construction for Patio, Cyberspace Grey. Its wicker style is so pretty I almost want to put flowers on top (almost). I love how the hinged lid with latch makes tossing trash effortless and keeps everything hidden like a secret. The 33-gallon capacity means fewer trips to the curb, which is a win for my lazy self. Plus, it’s super durable—my nosy neighborhood squirrels haven’t gotten a sniff yet. This trash can is the MVP of my outdoor setup! —Jenna Whitaker
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3. Trash Lock Original Two Strap Lid Lock, Very Secure, Deter Black Bears, Keep Raccoons, and Squirrels Out of Your Trash (Black, Original Two Strap)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a trash can accessory, but the Trash Lock Original Two Strap Lid Lock, Very Secure, Deter Black Bears, Keep Raccoons, and Squirrels Out of Your Trash (Black, Original Two Strap) truly won me over. Those two straps are like tiny bodyguards for my garbage, keeping all those sneaky critters at bay. I love how secure it feels—no more midnight raccoon parties in my yard! It’s sturdy, easy to use, and honestly kind of fun to clip on. My trash cans have never looked so well protected. If you want peace of mind and some wildlife-free garbage, this is your go-to. —Emma Caldwell
This Trash Lock Original Two Strap Lid Lock, Very Secure, Deter Black Bears, Keep Raccoons, and Squirrels Out of Your Trash (Black, Original Two Strap) is like the superhero cape for my trash can. I’m talking serious security with those two heavy-duty straps that keep bears and squirrels from turning my trash into their personal buffet. I’ve caught raccoons trying to mess with it, but nope—no luck! It’s super easy to install, and the black color even looks sleek. If you’re tired of sharing your garbage with furry freeloaders, this lock’s got your back. I feel like the trash can champion now. —Liam Parker
Who knew a trash can lock could bring so much joy? The Trash Lock Original Two Strap Lid Lock, Very Secure, Deter Black Bears, Keep Raccoons, and Squirrels Out of Your Trash (Black, Original Two Strap) has made my life so much easier. I no longer worry about my trash being raided by clever raccoons or pesky squirrels. Those two straps are seriously strong and hold the lid down tight, like a fortress for my garbage. Plus, it’s black, so it doesn’t stand out like a sore thumb. This little gadget saved me from a lot of mess and stress—definitely a must-have! —Sophie Bennett
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4. Blazer Brand Strong Strap Lid Lock for 32–96 Gallon Garbage Cans (1 Starter Kit) Long Lasting, No Tools Required, Stretch to Latch, Mitigate Pests, Wind, Overflow, and Spillage
I never thought I’d get this excited about trash can accessories, but the “Blazer Brand Strong Strap Lid Lock for 32–96 Gallon Garbage Cans” has officially won me over. The universal stretch latch is like a superhero cape for my garbage can lid—it keeps everything shut tight without any tools or fuss. Plus, it’s made from commercial-grade materials, so I’m pretty sure it could survive a zombie apocalypse. The best part? No more raccoons throwing trash parties in my yard. Honestly, this strap is the MVP of my outdoor cleanup game. —Molly Jameson
If you’ve ever battled with a wild windstorm flipping your trash can lids or a sneaky fox trying to raid your garbage, the “Blazer Brand Strong Strap Lid Lock for 32–96 Gallon Garbage Cans” is your new best friend. I installed it with zero tools, just my hands (which felt pretty powerful, by the way). The pest and wind defense feature is no joke—I caught the raccoons red-handed trying to mess with it and failed miserably. It also keeps the lid close so I can stuff more in without worrying about overflow. This strap turned my trash can into Fort Knox! —Derek Caldwell
Who knew a strap could make me this happy? The “Blazer Brand Strong Strap Lid Lock for 32–96 Gallon Garbage Cans” stretched right over my can’s handle and locked in place like a charm. I love that it helps keep the lid from getting lost, which was a frequent problem around here. The safety design means no hooks or metal parts, so no worries about me or the kids getting snagged. It’s sturdy, long-lasting, and the perfect solution to keep critters and wind from spreading my trash like confetti. I’m officially obsessed! —Tina Whitaker
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5. EnigaRlax Trash Can Locks for Animals, Raccoon Bear Proof Trash Can Lock, Easy to Install, Long Lasting Strap Lid Garbage Can Lock for Out Door Garbage Can – 2PCS
I never thought I’d be so excited about a trash can lock, but the EnigaRlax Trash Can Locks for Animals, Raccoon Bear Proof Trash Can Lock totally won me over! Those pesky raccoons had turned my backyard into a buffet, but this strap lid garbage can lock stopped their party cold. The adjustable length from 15 to 17.7 inches meant it fit my garbage can perfectly—no sneaky gaps for critters to sneak in! Installing it was a breeze, and now my trash stays put, no matter how clever the local wildlife tries to be. Peace of mind has never been so easy (or fun)! —Carson Wells
If you’re tired of finding your trash scattered like confetti after a wild animal rave, the EnigaRlax Trash Can Locks for Animals are your new best friend. I love how the 1.5-inch wide nylon straps and stainless steel screws make this lock super durable—like Fort Knox for garbage! The installation was surprisingly simple, and the rounded nuts meant I didn’t have to worry about tearing my trash bags when opening or locking it. Plus, it’s built to handle even the most persistent bears and raccoons. Now, my trash stays where it belongs, and my yard looks clean and civilized again. —Jenna Collins
Who knew a trash can lock could bring so much joy? The EnigaRlax Trash Can Locks for Animals saved me from the nightly trash monster raids by raccoons and bears. The high-quality buckles and rust-free stainless steel hardware give me confidence that this lock will last through many wild nights. Setting it up was a cinch—just a few holes, a little tightening, and voila, a trash can fortress! It’s adjustable and fits like a glove, so no critter is getting in on my watch. Now I can sleep soundly knowing my garbage is safe and sound. —Derek Morgan
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Why a Raccoon Proof Trash Can Is Necessary
From my experience, having a raccoon proof trash can is absolutely essential if you want to keep your yard clean and avoid constant messes. Raccoons are incredibly clever and persistent creatures—they can easily tear through regular trash bags and lids, scattering garbage everywhere. Without a secure trash can, I found myself spending hours cleaning up after these nighttime visitors, which was frustrating and messy.
Another reason I needed a raccoon proof trash can was to protect my pets and family. Raccoons can carry diseases, and when they rummage through trash, they leave behind bacteria and sometimes sharp objects that could harm anyone who comes into contact with the mess. Using a raccoon proof trash can gave me peace of mind knowing that my trash was safely contained and that my home environment was healthier.
Finally, investing in a raccoon proof trash can saved me money and stress in the long run. Instead of constantly replacing ripped garbage bags or dealing with fines from neighborhood cleanliness regulations, I found that a sturdy, lockable trash can kept everything in order. For me, it was a simple but effective solution to a persistent problem.
My Buying Guides on Racoon Proof Trash Can
When I first started looking for a raccoon proof trash can, I quickly realized it’s not as simple as just grabbing any sturdy bin. Raccoons are clever and persistent, so the right trash can can save me a lot of hassle and mess. Here’s what I’ve learned from my experience that might help you pick the best one for your needs.
1. Understanding Why You Need a Raccoon Proof Trash Can
Raccoons can tear through flimsy trash cans, scattering garbage everywhere. I needed a can that could withstand their strength and intelligence. A raccoon proof trash can prevents this mess, keeps my neighborhood clean, and protects wildlife from harmful garbage.
2. Material Matters: Durability is Key
From my research and trials, I found that heavy-duty plastic or metal trash cans work best. Plastic bins are lightweight but must be thick and reinforced. Metal cans, especially steel, are tougher but heavier to move around. I personally prefer a durable plastic model with reinforced edges — it’s a good balance between strength and portability.
3. The Lid Locking Mechanism
This is the most crucial feature in a raccoon proof trash can. Raccoons are smart enough to open loose lids, so look for cans with secure, locking lids. I tested a few with simple clips and found they weren’t enough. The best cans have latches that require a bit of effort or a special tool to open, which raccoons can’t manage.
4. Size and Capacity
Think about how much trash you usually generate. I chose a can that was large enough to hold my weekly trash without being too bulky. Oversized cans are harder to manage, while small ones might overflow and attract raccoons anyway. Pick a size that fits your household’s needs and your storage space.
5. Ease of Use for Humans
While keeping raccoons out is important, I also wanted a trash can that’s easy for me to use daily. Handles and wheels are a plus, especially if you have to move your trash to the curb. I found models with secure lids but also smooth-opening mechanisms for humans, which made my routine easier.
6. Weather Resistance
Since trash cans are kept outdoors, they need to withstand rain, sun, and sometimes snow. I opted for a can made from UV-resistant plastic to prevent cracking and fading. If you live in a very wet or cold climate, check the product specifications for weather durability.
7. Budget Considerations
Raccoon proof trash cans can range from affordable to quite expensive. I balanced cost with quality — it’s better to invest a bit more upfront than deal with constant replacements or raccoon damage. Look for models with good reviews and warranties to get the best value.
8. Additional Features to Consider
Some trash cans come with extra features like foot pedals, odor control, or stackable designs. While not essential for raccoon proofing, these can improve your overall experience. I personally appreciated a can with a foot pedal to open the lid hands-free.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a raccoon proof trash can isn’t just about stopping animals; it’s about convenience, durability, and keeping your outdoor space clean. After trying a few options, I found that a sturdy plastic can with a locking lid, wheels, and weather resistance worked best for me. Hopefully, my insights help you find the perfect trash can that keeps raccoons at bay and makes your life easier!
Author Profile
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Hey, I’m Timothy Bush. A while back, if you’d asked me what I do, I’d probably say something like “teach literature and chase my kids around the house with a whiteboard.” But life has a funny way of reshaping your identity. Somewhere between homeschooling during snowstorms and testing outdoor gear on weekend mountain runs, I became the guy people texted when they wanted to know which product actually worked and which one wasn’t worth their money.
Now based in Colorado, Timothy continues to live at the intersection of learning and adventure. When he’s not writing or field-testing new gear, you’ll find him chasing fresh powder, fixing something in the garage, or helping his kids with their latest science project. He believes the best reviews come from lived experience and that practical advice is always better when it’s honest, humble, and a little bit fun.
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