Raccoons can open standard garbage can lids, chew through plastic, and tip over unsecured bins. A metal can with a locking lid or a retrofit lock system is the only reliable solution, and a raccoon-proof fence adds a second line of defense. I compared the best raccoon proof garbage cans and lid locks to find what works.
- Latch style locks are most secure: Metal or heavy plastic latches that clip onto the lid rim prevent raccoons from prying the lid open, unlike bungee cords that can be slipped off.
- Bungee cord locks work for most situations: Thick bungee cord systems with steel wire core and reinforced S hooks that resist the raccoon problem solving sequence of pulling, prying, and slipping with strong hooks are easier to install and remove than latches while still stopping most raccoons.
- Measure your can before buying: Trash can sizes vary significantly. Most locks fit 30 to 50 gallon cans, but check compatibility with your specific can model.
- Double locks for persistent raccoons: If raccoons have learned to defeat one lock type through observational learning, a behavioral trait documented in urban raccoon populations one lock type, using two different lock types on the same can often stops them. Raccoons can learn to defeat a single lock design through observation, so pair the can with baits and lures if you are also trapping., but a secondary lock of a different type confuses their problem-solving sequence.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Type | Can Size | Best For | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENCASED Bungee Lock | Bungee cord | 30-50 gal | Best Overall | Check price |
| Blazer Strong Strap | Nylon strap | 32-96 gal | Best Heavy Duty | Check price |
| Encased 2 Pack | Bungee cord | 30-50 gal | Best 2 Pack | Check price |
| YYDSDOTA Lid Lock | Metal hasp | Universal | Best Metal Lock | Check price |
| Foxmox 2 Pack | Plastic latch | 30-45 gal | Best Latch | Check price |
| Trash Can Locks Belt | Belt strap | Universal | Best Belt | Check price |
| JFOMOYGI Double Claw Lock | Metal claw strap | 28-96 gal | Best Budget | Check price |
Detailed reviews of each lock covering installation ease, security level, and durability follow below.
Best Overall: ENCASED Trash Can Lock for Raccoons
Best Overall- Type
- Bungee cord with rim hooks
- Compatibility
- 30 to 50 gallon standard cans
- Material
- Nylon coated steel core
- Installation
- Tool free, 30 seconds
The ENCASED bungee cord lock is the most popular raccoon proof trash can lock for good reason. The heavy duty bungee stretches across the lid and hooks securely under the rim on both sides, holding the lid firmly in place. The nylon coated wire core prevents raccoons from chewing through the cord.
Installation takes about 30 seconds and requires no tools. The bungee stretches to fit 30 to 50 gallon standard trash cans. The hook design prevents raccoons from slipping the cord off the rim, which is the common failure point of simpler bungee solutions.
Best Heavy Duty: Blazer Brand Strong Strap Lid Lock
Best Heavy Duty- Type
- Ratcheting nylon strap
- Compatibility
- 32 to 96 gallon cans
- Material
- Heavy duty nylon webbing
- Features
- Ratcheting buckle, weather resistant
The Blazer Strong Strap uses a nylon strap with a ratcheting buckle mechanism instead of bungee cord. The strap tightens around the can body and lid, providing a secure hold that does not rely on elasticity. The ratcheting buckle locks in place and requires a lever to release, which raccoons cannot operate.
The strap adjusts to fit cans from 32 to 96 gallons, making it the most size flexible option on my list. The heavy duty nylon webbing resists weather, UV damage, and raccoon chewing. This is the best choice for large commercial cans and dumpsters.
Best 2 Pack: Encased Trash Can Lock (2 Pack)
Best 2 Pack- Type
- Bungee cord, 2 pack
- Compatibility
- 30 to 50 gallon cans
- Quantity
- 2 locks
- Best for
- Multiple cans or backup lock
The Encased 2 pack provides the same bungee cord lock design as the single pack but with two units at a better value per lock. It is ideal for households with two trash cans or for securing both the garbage and recycling bins. The 2 pack also provides a backup lock if one is damaged or lost.
Each lock is identical to the single ENCASED lock, with the same steel core bungee and secure rim hooks. The 2 pack price per lock is lower than buying two single packs.
Best Metal Lock: YYDSDOTA Trash Can Lid Lock
Best Metal Lock- Type
- Metal hasp with sliding latch
- Compatibility
- Universal fit, most standard cans
- Material
- Powder coated steel
- Installation
- Screw mount, permanent
The YYDSDOTA lock uses a metal hasp system that secures the lid with a rigid locking arm rather than flexible cord or strap. The metal construction prevents chewing and the locking mechanism is simple for humans to operate but confusing for raccoons. The hasp clips onto the lid rim and secures with a sliding latch.
The rigid design does not stretch or wear out like bungee cords. It is the most durable option for long term use, though installation is slightly more involved than bungee style locks.
Best Latch: Foxmox Trash Can Lock (2 Pack)
Best Latch- Type
- Plastic clip latch, 2 pack
- Compatibility
- 30 to 45 gallon cans
- Material
- Heavy duty weather resistant plastic
- Installation
- Clip on, no tools
The Foxmox latch lock uses a heavy duty plastic clip mechanism that attaches to the rim of the can and snaps over the lid handle. The latch is designed for 30 to 45 gallon standard cans and requires no tools or modification to the can. The 2 pack provides two latches for secure closure on both sides.
The latch design is simpler than bungee cords and does not rely on tension. It clips into place and holds the lid down with a positive mechanical lock that raccoons cannot release. The plastic construction is weather resistant and UV stable.
Best Belt: Trash Can Locks for Animals Belt Strap
Best Belt- Type
- Wrap around belt with buckle
- Compatibility
- Universal, all can shapes
- Material
- Nylon webbing
- Features
- Friction buckle, weather resistant
This belt style lock wraps around the entire can body and lid, securing with a friction buckle. The wide nylon belt distributes pressure evenly and prevents the lid from being pried up from any side. The universal design fits most can shapes and sizes, including square and rectangular cans that standard round locks do not fit.
The belt style is a good solution for non standard cans and for situations where multiple lock points are needed. The buckle is easy for human hands to operate but requires fine motor skills that raccoons lack.
Best Budget: JFOMOYGI Double Claw Trash Can Lid Lock
Best Budget- Type
- Metal double claw strap with rubber body
- Compatibility
- Roll out bins from 28 to 96 gallons, strap adjusts 28 to 51 inches
- Material
- Heavy-duty metal claws, breaking strength rated up to 1130 lbs
- Installation
- Hook, stretch, lock, no tools
This is the cheapest lock on the list and the one I would hand to a renter. It is a single strap with two metal claws and a rubber body: hook one claw over a handle, stretch the strap across the lid, clip the second claw on the other side. Hook on, stretch forward, lock on. No drilling, no brackets, and nothing that has to stay with the bin if you move house.
Two details lift it above a plain bungee cord. The claws are heavy-duty metal with a breaking strength rated up to 1130 lbs, and the strap adjusts from 28 to 51 inches, which is what lets it fit roll out bins from 28 to 96 gallons. The listing is also straight about what it defeats: it is built for small to medium animals, raccoons, skunks, possums, javelinas, squirrels and dogs, all of which have to work at the lid from the outside. A bear is a different problem and a different product.
The rubber strap is the wear item and the clips are the sort of thing that goes missing, but at this price you can keep a spare in the garage.
How to Choose a Trash Can Lock
Bungee vs Latch vs Strap
Bungee cord locks are the easiest to install and work well for typical suburban trash cans. Latch locks provide a mechanical grip that does not rely on tension. Strap systems are the most versatile for non standard cans. Metal hasp locks are the most durable but require permanent modification to the can.
Can Compatibility
Measure your trash can before buying a lock. Standard residential cans are 30 to 50 gallons. Larger commercial cans and dumpsters need strap or ratchet systems. Check whether the lock is designed for round, square, or rectangular cans.
Durability
Trash can locks live outside in all weather. Look for UV resistant materials, rust proof metal components, and weather sealed mechanisms. Bungee cords degrade in sunlight over 1 to 2 years. Metal and heavy plastic parts last longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Dedicated trash can locks are significantly more effective than homemade solutions like bungee cords or bricks on the lid. The locks are designed to resist raccoon paw dexterity and chewing. Most users report an immediate end to raccoon trash problems after installing a quality lock.
Most trash can locks are designed to be removed on pickup day and reinstalled after. Some are tough enough to survive automated truck arm pickup, but removing the lock before pickup is recommended to prevent damage and keep the lock working longer.
Bungee and latch locks simply clip or stretch into place with no tools required. Strap systems wrap around the can and tighten with a buckle. Metal hasp locks require drilling small holes in the can for the mounting screws. All products include installation instructions.
A ratchet style strap lock that requires two hands and opposing thumb pressure to release is the hardest for raccoons to defeat, because raccoons cannot apply the grip a human can. Simple bungee cords and gravity lids fail quickly.
Usually, but a determined raccoon will tip the can and work the lid for an hour. If a locked can keeps getting knocked over, add a weight in the bottom or secure the can to a post, and remove food scraps from the smell equation.
Yes, and that is the most common setup. The strap is the actual barrier; the can just needs a lid the strap can pin down. Round, wheeled municipal cans are the easiest to fit. Add a second strap if the lid flexes.
