10 Best Outdoor Trash Can To Keep Animals Out of 2025

Our pick: United Solutions 32 Gallon Wheeled Outdoor

After several weeks of use, the United Solutions 32 Gallon Wheeled Outdoor Garbage Can (2 Pack) has proven to be a dependable and practical solution for outdoor waste management. Its design balances durability with ease of use, making it suitable for residential areas like driveways, backyards, and garages. While it's not flawless, the product meets expectations for its price range and purpose.

Pros

• Sturdy Construction for Outdoor Conditions

• Attached Snap Lock Lid Stays Secure

• Smooth Mobility with Rugged Wheels

• Multipurpose Usage Beyond Just Trash

Con

• Handle Design Could Be More Ergonomic

Overall, the United Solutions 32 Gallon Wheeled Garbage Can is a reliable choice for those looking for a robust and mobile waste container. It's especially useful in environments exposed to the elements and where portability matters. While minor improvements in ergonomics would enhance user experience, the product delivers solid value for most household needs.

Also great: DWVO 66 Gallon Double-Bin Outdoor Trash Can

The DWVO 66 Gallon Double-Bin Outdoor Trash Can is a well-designed solution for households or small commercial spaces seeking organized and weather-resistant waste management. Its dual-bin system makes garbage sorting simple, and the thoughtful design elements make it a strong contender in the mid-range outdoor trash can market.

Pros

• Dual Compartments for Waste Sorting

• Weather-Resistant Resin Construction

• Built-in Drip Tray for Leak Management

• Quick, Tool-Free Assembly

Con

• Lids May Not Seal Tightly in Windy Conditions

With its generous capacity, efficient sorting features, and durable build, the DWVO 66 Gallon Double-Bin Trash Can stands out as a practical choice for outdoor trash storage. While the lid seal could be improved for extreme conditions, it remains a solid, user-friendly option for patios, decks, and gardens.

Also great: EAST OAK 38 Gallon Outdoor Trash Can

The EAST OAK 38 Gallon Outdoor Trash Can delivers a thoughtful balance of form and function. With a sleek profile, sturdy construction, and weather-resistant materials, it fits seamlessly into both residential and patio settings. The dual-lid design offers a clean aesthetic while improving usability, making it more than just a basic waste container.

Pros

• Sturdy, Weather-Resistant Resin Build

• Innovative Dual-Lid for Clean Appearance

• Built-In Drip Tray for Leak Management

• Quick, Tool-Free Assembly

Con

• Inner Bag Slot May Be Tight for Some Bag Sizes

The EAST OAK 38 Gallon Trash Can is a reliable and well-constructed solution for outdoor waste storage, especially where style and cleanliness are priorities. While bag fit may vary slightly, its overall design and ease of maintenance make it a solid choice for patios, porches, and other outdoor areas.

Source: Amazon

Keeping animals out of your trash can is all about limiting access and eliminating smells that attract them. Start with a sturdy trash can that has a secure lid—preferably one with locking mechanisms or clamps. Animals like raccoons, bears, or stray dogs are surprisingly clever and persistent, so flimsy lids won’t do the job.

Place your bin in a secure location if possible, like inside a shed or behind a fence. You can also use bungee cords to strap the lid down, especially if your bin doesn’t have a locking top.

Another tip: reduce odors. Rinse food containers before tossing them and double-bag particularly smelly items like meat or seafood scraps. Some people also sprinkle ammonia or vinegar around the bin (or even soak a rag and leave it on top) to deter animals with sensitive noses.

What Is the Best Trash Can for Animals?

When it comes to keeping critters out, not all trash cans are created equal. The best animal-proof trash cans are made from heavy-duty materials and have locking lids that animals can’t claw, chew, or pry open.

Brands like Toter, Rubbermaid, and BearSaver are well-known for their durable, wildlife-resistant models. If you live in a bear-prone area, look for bins certified by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC)—these have been tested against serious bear strength.

Wheeled models with latch systems are a great choice for suburban areas, while galvanized steel cans work well in rural or wooded locations. Bonus points if your bin is also resistant to tip-overs, which prevents animals from knocking them down to scavenge.

What Can I Put in My Outdoor Trash Can to Keep Flies Away?

Flies are drawn to moisture, food waste, and strong odors. To keep them away, start by lining your bin with baking soda or kitty litter—both help absorb moisture and neutralize smells.

Citrus peels (especially lemon and orange) can act as natural repellents, as flies dislike the scent. You can also try essential oils like eucalyptus, peppermint, or lavender—just add a few drops to cotton balls and place them inside the lid.

Always tie your garbage bags tightly and make sure your bin is cleaned out regularly. A quick rinse with vinegar and water once a week can make a big difference.

What Can I Put in My Trash to Keep Dogs Out?

Dogs are notorious for digging through trash, especially if they smell leftover food. The best solution is prevention—secure your bin with a tight-fitting lid, and consider placing a weight on top if your dog is particularly determined.

Inside the trash, you can make the contents less appealing by spraying a bitter apple spray or vinegar on the inside of the bag. These smells are safe but very unpleasant to dogs. Coffee grounds and citrus peels can also work as natural deterrents.

If you're dealing with a dog that repeatedly gets into the trash, it might be worth rethinking what you throw out and when. Try storing food scraps in a sealed container in your fridge or freezer until trash day.

Choosing the right outdoor trash can can make a big difference when it comes to keeping animals like raccoons, squirrels, and even bears out of your garbage. Whether you need something heavy-duty with a locking lid or a more budget-friendly option with secure latches, there’s a can out there that fits your needs. The key is to look for durability, a tight-sealing lid, and resistance to tipping. Investing in a quality trash can not only keeps your yard clean but also helps protect local wildlife and reduces the mess you have to deal with. In the long run, it’s a win-win.