Raccoons are known for their intelligence, agility, and curiosity. These characteristics make them excellent scavengers, especially when it comes to raiding trash cans for food. While this may seem like a simple nuisance, raccoons can scatter trash around your property and even spread diseases. To help you prevent these pesky critters from wreaking havoc in your yard, here are three effective ways to keep raccoons out of your trash cans.

1. Secure the Lid with Bungee Cords or Other Fasteners

One of the first things you should do to deter raccoons from getting into your trash cans is to secure the lids. Bungee cords and other heavy-duty fasteners can be used to anchor the lid firmly to the trash can. Attach one end of the bungee cord to a handle or through a small hole drilled into the side of the can, then stretch it across the lid and attach it to the other side. This will make it difficult for raccoons to pry open the lid and get access to your garbage.

Alternatively, you can use a specialized raccoon-proof trash can with built-in locks or clasps designed specifically for this purpose.

2. Store Trash Cans in an Enclosed Area

Raccoons have an excellent sense of smell and will be drawn to your garbage from a distance away. To minimize this attraction, store your trash cans in an enclosed area such as a garage, shed, or storage container until it’s time for collection. If this isn’t possible, you can construct a simple wooden or metal enclosure around your trash cans. Make sure that any door or lid on the enclosure is securely latched so raccoons cannot easily gain entry.

3. Use Repellents Strategically

There are several natural and commercial repellents on the market that can help keep raccoons away from your trash cans. Ammonia-soaked rags or cotton balls, for example, can be placed in or around your garbage cans as raccoons find the smell of ammonia unpleasant. Note that you’ll need to replace these regularly as the ammonia evaporates and loses its potency.

Commercial repellents containing ingredients like capsaicin (from hot peppers) can also be effective at deterring raccoons. You can spray these repellents directly onto your trash cans or create a perimeter around the area where you store your garbage.

Always remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using commercial repellents for optimal results.

By implementing these tactics, you will help to protect your property from raccoon-related damages and messes while discouraging these clever animals from returning to your trash cans. With some persistence and proactive measures, you can keep raccoons at bay and maintain a cleaner, safer yard.