Animal Resistant Garbage Cans For Secure Outdoor Storage
Keeping your outdoor trash cans secure from animal intruders is a common problem for many homeowners. Animals like raccoons, opossums, and stray cats can easily knock over or chew through regular garbage cans, creating a mess and spreading disease. Fortunately, there are animal-resistant garbage cans designed specifically for secure outdoor storage.
Benefits of Animal-Resistant Garbage Cans
Using animal-resistant garbage cans provides several benefits, including:
- Reduced mess and cleanup: Animal-resistant garbage cans prevent animals from knocking over or chewing through the can, reducing the amount of trash scattered on your property.
- Decreased risk of disease transmission: By keeping animals out of your trash, you can reduce the risk of disease transmission to humans and other animals.
- Increased property value: Keeping your outdoor trash cans secure and tidy can improve the appearance of your property and increase its value.
- Compliance with local regulations: Many cities and municipalities have regulations requiring residents to use animal-resistant garbage cans to prevent animal-related messes.
Types of Animal-Resistant Garbage Cans
There are several types of animal-resistant garbage cans available, including:
- Locking garbage cans: These cans have a secure locking mechanism that prevents animals from opening the lid.
- Weighted garbage cans: These cans have a heavy base or weighted lid that prevents animals from knocking them over.
- Sensor-activated garbage cans: These cans have sensors that detect when an animal is approaching and automatically close the lid.
- Enclosed garbage cans: These cans have a fully enclosed design that prevents animals from accessing the trash.
Features to Consider When Buying Animal-Resistant Garbage Cans
When buying animal-resistant garbage cans, consider the following features:
- Durability: Look for cans made from heavy-duty materials that can withstand animal attempts to knock them over or chew through them.
- Ease of use: Choose cans with easy-to-use locking mechanisms or sensor-activated lids.
- Size: Consider the size of the can and the amount of trash you need to store.
- Odor control: Look for cans with odor-controlling features, such as odor-absorbing filters or tight-fitting lids.
- Weather resistance: Choose cans that are weather-resistant and can withstand extreme temperatures and weather conditions.
Top Brands for Animal-Resistant Garbage Cans
Some top brands for animal-resistant garbage cans include:
- Rubbermaid
- Hefty
- Sterilite
- Simplehuman
- Victor Pest
DIY Animal-Resistant Garbage Cans
If you're on a budget or prefer a DIY approach, you can make your own animal-resistant garbage cans using materials like:
- Plastic containers
- Metal rods
- Wood
- Wire mesh
Here's a simple DIY guide:
- Choose a plastic container or wooden box with a secure lid.
- Cut a metal rod to fit across the lid, creating a locking mechanism.
- Attach wire mesh around the container to prevent animals from chewing through.
- Add a weighted base or heavy object to prevent animals from knocking the can over.
Tips for Using Animal-Resistant Garbage Cans
Here are some tips for using animal-resistant garbage cans:
- Regularly clean and maintain the can to prevent odors and messes.
- Keep the can in a secure location, such as a fenced area or behind a locked gate.
- Use animal-resistant trash bags to prevent animals from chewing through the bag.
- Consider using a motion-activated sprinkler or other deterrents to keep animals away from the can.
What is the best type of animal-resistant garbage can?
+The best type of animal-resistant garbage can depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors like durability, ease of use, and odor control when choosing a can.
How do I keep animals out of my garbage cans?
+Use animal-resistant garbage cans, keep the can in a secure location, and consider using motion-activated sprinklers or other deterrents to keep animals away.
Can I make my own animal-resistant garbage can?
+Yes, you can make your own animal-resistant garbage can using materials like plastic containers, metal rods, and wire mesh. Follow the DIY guide provided in this article for instructions.
We hope this article has provided you with valuable information on animal-resistant garbage cans and how to keep your outdoor trash cans secure from animal intruders. Share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments below!