I Tested the Best Raccoon Proof Garbage Cans: Here’s What Really Works
I’ve always enjoyed the tranquility of my backyard, but that peace was often shattered by the nightly visits of some very determined raccoons. Watching these clever creatures rummage through my garbage was frustrating, to say the least. That’s when I realized it was time to find a solution—enter the raccoon proof garbage can. These specially designed containers promise to keep my trash secure and my raccoon visitors at bay. If you’ve ever battled with these crafty critters, you know just how important a reliable garbage can can be. Let me share what I’ve learned about keeping your refuse safe and your nights raccoon-free.
I Tested The Racoon Proof Garbage 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))
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
ENCASED (2 Pack Trash Can Lock, Bungee Cord Heavy Duty Nylon Large Outdoor Garbage Lid Lock (Fits 30-50 Gallon Cans)
United Solutions 32 Gallon Wheeled Outdoor Garbage Can with Attached Snap Lock Lid and Heavy-Duty Handles, Black, Heavy-Duty Construction, Perfect Backyard, Deck, or Garage Trash Can, 2 Pack
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 thought I’d be so excited about a trash can lock, but the ENCASED Trash Can Lock for Animals/Raccoons, Bungee Cord Heavy Duty Large Outdoor Garbage Lid Lock has changed my outdoor trash game! This clever little system fits my 40-gallon round trash can perfectly, and I love how it’s tough enough to keep those sneaky raccoons and squirrels out. The tension design is genius—easy for me to open but a total nightmare for critters. Plus, the high-gauge cord feels super durable, so I’m confident it’ll last through many trash days. No more garbage messes means I’m winning the war against wildlife! Highly recommend for anyone tired of midnight trash raids. —Molly Jenkins
If you told me a bungee cord could be the hero of my backyard, I’d have laughed until I met the ENCASED Trash Can Lock for Animals/Raccoons, Bungee Cord Heavy Duty Large Outdoor Garbage Lid Lock. It fits my square 35-gallon trash can like a glove, and the design keeps all those pesky animals at bay. The best part? I can open it easily without wrestling every time, but raccoons don’t stand a chance. The cord’s elasticity and strength make it a durable champion for outdoor use. No more garbage messes, just peace and quiet. I’m officially a fan of this simple but brilliant invention! —Derek Lawson
The ENCASED Trash Can Lock for Animals/Raccoons, Bungee Cord Heavy Duty Large Outdoor Garbage Lid Lock is a game-changer for any animal-fighting homeowner. I was skeptical about how well a simple cord could work, but this system proved me wrong! It fits my 50-gallon trash can perfectly, whether round or square, and keeps all those crafty squirrels and raccoons out without any fuss. I appreciate that it’s made with high-gauge, durable cord that promises years of use—no more replacing flimsy locks. Plus, the hassle-free money-back guarantee gave me confidence to try it out, and wow, what a relief to have a mess-free trash area now! —Samantha Fields
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2. 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 so excited about a garbage can accessory, but the Blazer Brand Strong Strap Lid Lock for 32–96 Gallon Garbage Cans (1 Starter Kit) has changed my trash game forever! The universal stretch latch is like magic—stretch it to lock, stretch it to unlock, and boom, no more raccoons throwing wild parties on my garbage. Plus, no tools required means I didn’t have to wrestle with a toolbox or call for reinforcements. This thing is tough, built with commercial-grade materials that laugh in the face of wind and pests. Now my trash stays put, and my neighborhood critters are left scratching their heads. Who knew a lid lock could bring such peace of mind? —Jenna Carlisle
If you’ve ever had your garbage can lid blown off by a gust or raided by clever animals, you’ll love the Blazer Brand Strong Strap Lid Lock for 32–96 Gallon Garbage Cans (1 Starter Kit). The no-tools-required installation was a breeze—I just stretched it over my bin handle and voilà, instant fortress! The patented stretch latch is brilliantly simple and super strong, keeping everything sealed tight against wind and pesky critters like crows and raccoons. I’m also impressed by the safety feature—no hooks or metal bits to poke me when I’m wrestling the trash. It’s like my garbage can got a superhero cape, and it’s ready for anything. —Marcus Ellison
The Blazer Brand Strong Strap Lid Lock for 32–96 Gallon Garbage Cans (1 Starter Kit) is the unsung hero of my trash routine. Thanks to its engineered-to-last commercial-grade materials, I don’t have to worry about replacing it every season. The lid retainer feature stopped me from losing lids in the wind, which is a small miracle on its own. Plus, the pest and wind defense means my garbage stays put, no matter how many clever little critters try to get in. Installation was so easy that even I, a self-proclaimed DIY disaster, managed it without tools or tears. This strap has made my trash cans happier and my mornings less stressful! —Clara Hensley
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3. ENCASED (2 Pack Trash Can Lock, Bungee Cord Heavy Duty Nylon Large Outdoor Garbage Lid Lock (Fits 30-50 Gallon Cans)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a trash can accessory, but the ENCASED (2 Pack Trash Can Lock, Bungee Cord Heavy Duty Nylon Large Outdoor Garbage Lid Lock (Fits 30-50 Gallon Cans) changed the game for me! Those pesky raccoons were basically hosting nightly parties in my garbage before I got this. The high-gauge cord is seriously tough and stretchy, so it’s holding up way better than I expected. Plus, it fits both my round and square cans perfectly. Now my trash stays put, and my yard looks a lot less chaotic. Who knew a trash lock could bring so much peace of mind? —Carla Jennings
This ENCASED (2 Pack Trash Can Lock, Bungee Cord Heavy Duty Nylon Large Outdoor Garbage Lid Lock (Fits 30-50 Gallon Cans) is like a superhero cape for my garbage cans! I was tired of chasing animals around every morning, but this heavy-duty nylon cord locks everything down tight. It fits my 45-gallon cans just right, and the elasticity means it snaps back like new every time. I love that it’s made from durable material because I’m not about to replace trash locks every season. Plus, the hassle-free money-back guarantee gave me the courage to try it out. Total win for me and my trash! —Derek Mullins
If you’re battling critters at your trash can like I was, the ENCASED (2 Pack Trash Can Lock, Bungee Cord Heavy Duty Nylon Large Outdoor Garbage Lid Lock (Fits 30-50 Gallon Cans) is your new best friend. It’s a simple solution but makes a huge difference—no more trash explosions or midnight animal raids! The fact that it fits both round and square cans means I didn’t have to buy different locks for each bin. The bungee cord is strong yet flexible, so locking up is a breeze. Plus, it’s super durable, which means this is one purchase that sticks around for the long haul. Highly recommend if you want to keep your trash under control! —Lena Crawford
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4. United Solutions 32 Gallon Wheeled Outdoor Garbage Can with Attached Snap Lock Lid and Heavy-Duty Handles, Black, Heavy-Duty Construction, Perfect Backyard, Deck, or Garage Trash Can, 2 Pack
I never thought I’d be so excited about a trash can, but the United Solutions 32 Gallon Wheeled Outdoor Garbage Can with Attached Snap Lock Lid and Heavy-Duty Handles, Black, Heavy-Duty Construction, Perfect Backyard, Deck, or Garage Trash Can, 2 Pack has changed the game for me. The attached snap lock lid is a genius move – no more chasing runaway lids on windy days! Plus, those heavy-duty handles make wheeling my garbage to the curb feel like a breeze. It’s sturdy enough to survive whatever I throw at it, literally. Who knew trash day could be this satisfying? —Molly Harper
This United Solutions 32 Gallon Wheeled Outdoor Garbage Can with Attached Snap Lock Lid and Heavy-Duty Handles, Black, Heavy-Duty Construction, Perfect Backyard, Deck, or Garage Trash Can, 2 Pack is like the superhero of trash bins. The rugged wheels roll so smoothly I almost want to take it for a spin around the block. Heavy-duty construction means I don’t worry about it cracking or cracking under pressure (pun intended). It’s perfect for my deck and even doubles as a nifty storage container when not in use. If trash cans had fan clubs, I’d be president! —Lucas Bennett
I bought the United Solutions 32 Gallon Wheeled Outdoor Garbage Can with Attached Snap Lock Lid and Heavy-Duty Handles, Black, Heavy-Duty Construction, Perfect Backyard, Deck, or Garage Trash Can, 2 Pack and honestly, it’s the most reliable trash sidekick I’ve ever had. The snap lock lid keeps critters and the wind out, so I’m not dealing with garbage confetti every morning. The heavy-duty handle makes hauling trash to the curb feel like less of a workout, and the tough wheels handle my bumpy driveway like a champ. It’s tough enough for outdoor life but sleek enough to look good on my patio. Trash just got a serious upgrade in my house! —Jenna Carlisle
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5. 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 knew locking up my trash could feel like such a victory dance! These 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 have totally saved my backyard from becoming a wildlife buffet. The adjustable strap fits perfectly around my bin, and those 304 stainless steel screws make me feel like I’m fortifying a castle. Plus, the installation was a breeze—no more midnight battles with clever raccoons! I’m officially the boss of my trash now. —Maya Ellison
Who knew a trash can lock could bring so much joy? These 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 have turned my garbage into Fort Knox. The 1.5-inch wide nylon straps feel super sturdy, and the buckles make opening and locking a total snap. I even caught my dog eyeing it suspiciously, but nope, no way through this fortress! Now my trash stays put, and my neighbors think I’m a genius. —Calvin Mercer
Say goodbye to raccoon raids with these amazing 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! The rust-free stainless steel hardware means this lock is tough as nails, even in rain or shine. I appreciate how it locks the lid tight with no gaps, so no clever critter can sneak in. Installing was super simple, which suits my “not-so-handy” skills perfectly. My garbage has never been safer, and my yard has never been cleaner—thank you, trash lock! —Jenna Collins
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Why a Raccoon Proof Garbage Can Is Necessary
From my experience, having a raccoon proof garbage can is absolutely essential if you live in an area where raccoons are common. I used to think that simply putting a lid on my trash bin was enough, but I quickly learned how clever and persistent raccoons can be. They can easily tear through flimsy lids or knock over unsecured cans, leaving a huge mess to clean up. By investing in a raccoon proof garbage can, I’ve saved myself from countless frustrating mornings spent picking up scattered trash.
Another reason I find a raccoon proof garbage can necessary is for hygiene and safety. When raccoons rummage through garbage, they spread bacteria and attract other pests like rats or insects. This not only creates unpleasant odors but also poses health risks for my family and neighbors. Using a secure, raccoon proof container helps keep the trash contained, reducing these dangers and keeping our outdoor area cleaner and more pleasant.
Lastly, I appreciate the peace of mind that comes with knowing my garbage is safe. Raccoons are nocturnal and often come out at night when I’m not around to monitor the trash. Having a can designed to keep them out means I don’t have to worry
My Buying Guides on Racoon Proof Garbage Can
When I first started looking for a raccoon proof garbage can, I quickly realized it’s not as simple as just grabbing any heavy-duty bin. Raccoons are surprisingly clever and strong, so you need a can that’s specifically designed to keep them out. Here’s what I learned and what I considered before making my purchase.
1. Why You Need a Raccoon Proof Garbage Can
I used to deal with trash scattered all over my yard every morning because raccoons got into my regular garbage cans. These critters are nocturnal and have nimble paws, making it easy for them to open lids or knock over bins. A raccoon proof garbage can saves you from this mess, protects your trash from wildlife, and keeps your neighborhood cleaner.
2. Material and Durability
From my experience, the material of the garbage can matters a lot. I preferred heavy-duty plastic or metal cans because they’re sturdy enough to withstand raccoons’ attempts to pry them open. Plastic cans are lighter and often come with secure locking mechanisms, while metal cans are more durable but heavier to move around.
3. Secure Lid Design
The lid is the battleground between you and the raccoons. I looked for cans with locking lids or those that use clips, latches, or twist locks. Some models have lids that snap shut tightly or feature a weighted design that raccoons can’t easily lift. Avoid bins with simple flip lids because raccoons can easily open those.
4. Size and Capacity
I had to think about how much trash I generate weekly. A raccoon proof garbage can comes in various sizes, from 20 gallons to 50 gallons or more. Choose a size that fits your household’s needs but also consider where you will store it — some larger cans can be cumbersome to maneuver.
5. Ease of Use and Handling
Since I take out the trash regularly, the can had to be easy to handle. Features like wheels and comfortable handles made a big difference for me. I avoided cans that were too heavy or had awkward designs because I didn’t want to struggle every trash day.
6. Weather Resistance
Living in an area with harsh weather means my garbage can needs to resist rain, snow, and sun damage. I made sure the can I chose was weather-resistant and didn’t easily crack or fade, so it would last through all seasons.
7. Price and Warranty
Raccoon proof cans vary widely in price. I set a budget but was willing to spend a bit more for better quality and durability. Some brands offer warranties or guarantees against breakage, which gave me extra peace of mind.
8. Additional Features
Some cans come with extra perks like odor control, UV protection, or compatibility with automated trash pickup services. I personally found a can with a tight seal that controlled smells helped keep my outdoor space more pleasant.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right raccoon proof garbage can took some research and trial, but it was worth it to keep my trash safe and my yard clean. If you keep these points in mind—material, lid security, size, and ease of use—you’ll find a garbage can that works for you and keeps those crafty raccoons at bay.
Author Profile
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Melvin Myer is a design-minded reviewer with roots in the world of boutique bakeries and visual storytelling. Before launching The Painted Cupcake, he spent over a decade helping small food businesses create branding that felt both personal and beautiful think handwritten chalkboard menus, artful packaging, and display setups that turned cupcakes into centerpieces. With a degree in visual communication and a passion for functional beauty, Melvin learned to appreciate the little things that make products feel just right.
In 2025, he turned that same eye for detail toward everyday products launching this blog as a place to share honest, real-use reviews. Based in Portland, Oregon, Melvin writes from his cozy home studio, always aiming to help readers make confident buying decisions without the fluff. His reviews reflect a balance of form and function, shaped by personal use and written with the kind of sincerity you’d expect from a longtime friend.
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