For humans, trash is just waste, but for curious wild animals like raccoons, it’s a true delicacy. These crafty foragers will do anything to get into your garbage.

Part 1

Step 1. Pay attention to your trash can.

Step 1

Make your trash can a fortress against raccoons. Consider investing in a metal trash bin with a tightly sealing lid.

  • Keep in mind that some plastic bins come with screw-top lids, but raccoons can chew through those. [1] X Source
  • If you're unsure about which bin to choose, consult a store associate and let them know you need a raccoon-resistant bin. There are also special locks available for securing trash containers.
  • Never leave the bin open, even for a short time! This will only attract raccoons.

Step 2. Secure the lid with clamps or built-in locks.

Step 2

Ensure the lid is tightly closed on the bin using clamps or existing locking mechanisms. You can also wrap the bin with a chain and lock it up—raccoons haven't learned how to open locks yet!

  • If you don’t have a lock, try wrapping the edges of the lid with a plastic hose to create a tight seal. Cut the hose lengthwise and fit it over the rim of the lid to prevent raccoons from opening it. [2] X Source
  • Secure the lid with a rope by looping it around the handles of the bin. This will help keep the lid in place and make it harder for raccoons to access the trash. [3] X Source

Step 3. Place a heavy object on top of the bin lid.

Step 3

Put a rock, cinder block, or any other heavy object on top of the bin lid. However, be aware that if it’s too heavy, someone in your family might refuse to take out the trash.

Step 4. Treat the inside of the bin with ammonia.

Step 4

Spray the inside of the trash bin with ammonia. You can also soak a cloth in ammonia and place it inside. Ammonia has a smell similar to urine which deters raccoons. Don’t forget to treat other areas where raccoons might appear to keep them off your property.

Step 5. Use raccoon repellents around the trash cans.

Step 5

Sprinkle raccoon repellent around the trash containers. They typically avoid such substances.

  • If you prefer not to use chemicals, try replacing them with hot or cayenne pepper.
  • Other effective repellents include mustard and mothballs. [6] X Source Remember that the use of mothballs may be restricted in your area due to their potential carcinogenic properties, so check local regulations before use.

Step 6. Install motion-activated lights near your trash cans.

Step 6

Place motion-activated lights in the areas where your trash containers are located. Raccoons prefer darkness, and bright lights can scare them away. A 100-watt bulb works great for this purpose.

  • If possible, set up a radio near the trash and tune it to a news station. The sounds of human voices can deter raccoons and keep them away from the bins. [8] X Source [9] X Source Start at a low volume and increase it as needed.

Step 7. Store bins in secured locations like a shed, basement, or garage.

Step 7

Try to keep trash bins in secured locations like a shed or garage. If raccoons can’t access the bins without human intervention, your trash will remain safe.