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- Store garbage cans out of the squirrels’ reach in a garage or shed.
- Opt for lidded garbage cans or ones made of metal, and weigh down the bottom to prevent squirrels from knocking them over.
- Clean garbage cans regularly, always use trash bags, and use natural sprays to keep squirrels away.
Squirrels can cause serious havoc when they repeatedly get into garbage cans, but luckily, there are simple measures you can take to keep them out. To stop your garbage can from being a magnet for squirrels, follow the seven expert-recommended tips below. They include storing garbage cans in a closed area, cleaning them regularly and always using trash bags, weighing down the bottoms of cans, and more.
Meet the Expert
- Sean Hearn is an associate certified entomologist, a certified pest control operator, and director of business development at All “U” Need Pest Control.
- Jason Burkart is the managing director at Critter Control.
Store Garbage Cans in the Garage or Shed
The most effective way to keep squirrels out of garbage cans is to store them in the garage or a shed until it is time to put them out, Sean Hearn, an associate certified entomologist and certified pest control operator at All “U” Need Pest Control, says. This keeps them out of the squirrels’ reach and limits the amount of time they have to get into your trash.
Because squirrels are excellent climbers, Jason Burkart, managing director at Critter Control, says that even if you have critter-proof garbage cans, you should still keep them in a place where squirrels can’t climb something nearby and somehow gain access.
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Get a Lidded Garbage Can
An open-top garbage can or one with a flimsy lid provides easy access for squirrels. For this reason, Hearn recommends opting for one with a lid and other security features.
“There are trash cans out there that do have sealing or locking lids that aren’t easily manipulated by squirrels,” Hearn says.
Before you invest in a secure garbage can, Hearn advises that you double-check with your municipality to make sure it’s compatible with their waste handling process.
Burkart shares that another benefit of a tightly sealed garbage can lid is that even if the can gets knocked over, the lid will stay on and prevent squirrels from getting in.
Go With a Metal Garbage Can
Similarly, considering the material used in the construction of the garbage can is key.
“Squirrels can more easily gnaw through plastic, so if you are worried about squirrels, metal cans might be a better option,” Burkart says.
Always Use Trash Bags
Instead of throwing waste directly into an outdoor garbage can, Hearn recommends using trash bags for everything that goes in. He explains that if squirrels can peer into a garbage can and not see anything of interest, then they are more likely to move on.
“It’s often exposed food waste from untied bags and other waste being loosely thrown into the can that will catch the squirrel’s interest,” Hearn says.
Clean Garbage Cans Regularly
Regularly cleaning a garbage can is one of the most effective ways to keep squirrels away. Hearn notes that squirrels typically target garbage cans that are filled with readily available food waste. If the interior of the garbage can is splattered with remains of food waste, it’s more likely to attract squirrels.
To clean a garbage can, follow the below steps:
- Empty out the garbage can, removing all solid waste.
- Hose down the interior and exterior with water.
- Scrub the interior and exterior with warm, soapy water or a cleaning solution of equal parts distilled white vinegar and water.
- Hose down the interior and exterior to wash off the soap or vinegar solution.
- Allow the garbage can to fully air dry.
Use a Natural Spray
Natural sprays offer an eco-friendly way to deter squirrels. Burkart explains that these sprays contain a chemical compound called capsaicin which is in everything from chili peppers, peppermint, and eucalyptus to garlic and citrus oils.
“These are all smells that squirrels tend to dislike, potentially getting them to move along from your garbage if they smell them,” Burkart says.
The expert warns that wind, rain, and other weather conditions may reduce the potency of the scent and require frequent reapplication.
Weigh Down the Garbage Can
Hearn says he has also seen success with adding weight to the very bottom of the garbage can. It keeps them stable and upright, preventing squirrels from knocking them over to access food waste. You can weigh down a garbage can with a cinderblock, a large rock, or a sandbag.
