Keep Animals Out of Your Trash

Small animals like raccoons, squirrels, and rats can be a nuisance when they get into your trashcans. They can make a mess and spread garbage around your property. Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to keep them out of your trashcans.

1. Secure your trashcans

Make sure your trashcans have tight-fitting lids that cannot be easily removed. Consider using bungee cords or other types of latches to keep the lids firmly in place. If you have a large trashcan, consider using a weighted object like a cinder block to keep the lid from being lifted.

2. Keep your trashcans clean

Raccoons and other animals are attracted to the smell of food, so keeping your trashcans clean and odor-free can help deter them. Rinse your trashcans with a hose and use a disinfectant cleaner to remove any lingering odors.

3. Don’t overfill your trashcans

If your trashcans are overflowing with garbage, small animals will be more likely to get into them. Try to avoid overfilling your trashcans and make sure to compact the garbage as much as possible. This will make it more difficult for animals to get inside.

4. Use deterrents

There are several types of deterrents you can use to keep small animals away from your trashcans. One option is to use a commercial animal repellent spray. These sprays contain natural ingredients like peppermint oil or citronella that animals find unpleasant. Another option is to sprinkle ammonia or cayenne pepper around your trashcans. The strong smell will deter animals from approaching.

5. Store your trashcans properly

When you’re not using your trashcans, store them in a secure area like a garage or shed. This will make it more difficult for animals to access them. If you don’t have a storage area, consider storing your trashcans in a fenced-in area or using a locking trashcan storage unit.

6. Consider using a motion-activated sprinkler

Another effective deterrent is a motion-activated sprinkler. When an animal approaches, the sprinkler will turn on and spray water, scaring the animal away. These sprinklers are easy to install and can be adjusted to target specific areas of your property. They are also environmentally friendly and won’t harm the animals.

7. Close your trash bags all the way

When your trash bags aren’t completely tied off, it’s much easier for scent to travel outside of the can. This will encourage nearby animals to investigate. It will also draw more flies,

8. Stay vigilant

Even with these precautions, small animals may still find a way to get into your trashcans. Stay vigilant and check your trashcans regularly. If you notice any signs of animal activity, take action immediately to prevent further damage. By following these tips, you can keep small animals out of your trashcans and keep your property clean and free of unwanted pests.