Fun Fact: A lot of times, garbage is noted to be 2–4 degrees hotter than the air surrounding it. The food scents also rise from garbage, making it the perfect location for pests such as raccoons, mice, and squirrels. The good news is that it is easy to bug-proof your garbage cans. Here are some simple tips to ensure that your home remains pest-free and your garbage area clean.

1. Select a Garbage Bin with a Secure Lid

Choose a strong trash can with a lid that fits securely. Bugs are intelligent pests and can easily find their way into lids that are loose or weak. Metal or heavy-duty plastic cans are the best as they are more difficult for animals to gnaw through.

• Tip: Smaller garbage cans are great for pest control as they reduce waste and often do a better job of minimizing smells that draw critters in.

2. Seal Garbage Bags Properly

Make sure to use bags that are strong and durable, and tie them tightly. If your rubbish contains strong-smelling or leaking items, double-bag them to keep the smell from escaping. As small as it is, a hole in the garbage sack would attract pests. Thus, before throwing it into the can, check if there are holes or tears in the bag.

• Pro Tip: Use odor-blocking trash bags to limit smells that bring in pests.

3. Regularly Clean Your Trash Bins

Trash bins accumulate residue and food debris inside, providing a perfect place for pests to make their home. Clean your garbage cans with soap and water regularly.

How to Clean Your Garbage Can:

1. Clear all the waste and wash the container.
2. Scrub the inside with a brush and mild detergent, giving special attention to the bottom and the lid.
3. Wash it, allow it to dry, and insert a new bag.

• Bonus Tip: Use a little bleach or vinegar to neutralize odors and keep pests away.

4. Keep Garbage Cans in a Secure Place

The location of your garbage cans matters. If you can, store them indoors in a garage or shed to reduce pest access. If you have to leave them outside:

• Keep them away from any doors and windows of your home.
• Use bungee cords or lid locks to keep animals from opening the lids.
• Sweep up the area around your cans to clear any food scraps or trash that may attract rodents.

5. Use Natural Pest Deterrents

Natural repellents can effectively keep pests away from your garbage cans. Here are some simple options:

• Sprinkle baking soda combined with peppermint, eucalyptus, or citronella oil around your cans.
• Use strong scents like mothballs or lavender sachets near your garbage cans to repel pests.

6. Teach Your Family About Pest Control

Keeping your home pest-free is a joint effort. Educate your household on the importance of tightly sealing trash bags, sanitizing garbage cans, and securing lids. The more people that take part, the less chance pests will become an issue.

Start Keeping Pests Away Today

With these tips, you will be able to mitigate the chances of any pest infestation and ensure a cleaner, more hygienic home environment. Pest-proofing is possible with simple habits such as sealing garbage bags, cleaning cans, and sprinkling natural deterrents to prevent pests from invading your trash area.

To read more ideas for pest-proofing your home, check out our blog and start protecting your house today!

FAQs

Q: How often should the garbage can be cleaned?

A: Ideally, you should clean your trash can every two weeks, but definitely after disposing of especially messy or smelly garbage.

Q: Can pests actually chew through plastic garbage cans?

A: Yes. Some pests, like raccoons and rats, can chew through thin plastic. Opt for heavy-duty plastic or metal cans.

Q: Are natural repellents safe to use around pets?

A: Yes, the majority of natural repellents like baking soda and essential oils are pet-safe. However, avoid mothballs if you have pets, as they can be toxic.

Q: Do smaller cans reduce waste and odor too? Will my trash be less attractive to pests?

A: Absolutely. Smaller cans limit waste volume and odors, making them less attractive to pests. Keeping food scraps out or maintaining clean bins further helps.