Squirrels are relentless when it comes to food sources. Your garbage can and compost bin are prime targets and once they learn a food source is accessible, they will keep coming back.
The solution is simple: secure containers that squirrels cannot tip over, chew through, or pry open. I reviewed the best squirrel proof garbage cans, lid locks, and animal resistant compost bins to help you keep your property clean and pest free.
For non-garbage solutions, see my best squirrel repellents guide.
- Metal garbage cans are naturally squirrel proof: Squirrels cannot chew through galvanized steel. A metal can with a tight fitting lid is the most effective solution without additional accessories.
- Lid locks retrofit any existing can: Straps and locks with metal buckles secure your current garbage can for $12 to $30, much cheaper than buying a new can.
- Tumbling composters are inherently animal proof: Enclosed rotating bins with tight sealing doors prevent squirrels from accessing food scraps while making composting easier.
- Squirrels can open unsecured lids: A bungee cord is not enough. Purpose built lid locks with metal buckles are the only reliable way to secure plastic cans.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Category | Key Feature | Best For | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POMILER 31 Gal Steel Can | Garbage Can | Galvanized steel, tight lid, rodent resistant | Best Metal Can | Check price |
| TrashLocker Can Lock | Lid Lock | Two strap, 28-96 gal, metal buckle | Best Lock | Check price |
| Bear Proof Trash Can Lock Double Metal Claw | Lid Lock | Double claw grip, extreme security | Heavy Duty | Check price |
| Trash Can Lid Lock Strap | Lid Lock | Rubber coated metal, budget friendly | Best Value Lock | Check price |
| VIVOSUN Tumbling Composter 43 Gal | Compost Bin | Dual bin, enclosed, rotating, elevated | Best Composter | Check price |
| Galvanized Steel Compost Bin 93 Gal | Compost Bin | Heavy duty steel, secure lid, rust proof | Best Heavy Duty | Check price |
| Metal Wire Mesh Composter 172 Gal | Compost Bin | Large capacity, fine mesh, value price | Best Value Composter | Check price |
Best Garbage Cans and Locks
1. POMILER Galvanized Steel Trash Can 31 Gallon, Best Metal Can
- Capacity
- 31 gallons
- Material
- High-grade galvanized steel
- Features
- Tight fitting lid, wire handles, offset bottom, rodent and rust resistant
- Practical load
- Up to about 100 lbs
Squirrels chew through plastic bins. They cannot chew through galvanized steel, and that is the whole argument for a metal can. This is a 31 gallon galvanized can with a tight fitting lid, and the listing says it is built to keep rodents out while resisting rust and holding down odors.
A few design details show it was made for outdoor storage rather than for a kitchen. The offset bottom lifts the can slightly off the ground, so the base is not sitting in a puddle every time it rains, and the wire handles are sturdy enough to move it when it is loaded. The listing puts the practical capacity at around 100 pounds, which is more than a normal week of household trash weighs.
One thing to know: a tight lid is not a locked lid. A determined raccoon can learn to work a metal can lid open, so if raccoons are the problem as well as squirrels, add one of the locks further down this list rather than relying on the lid alone.
2. TrashLocker Raccoon and Squirrel Proof Lock, Best Lock for Existing Cans
- Compatibility
- Fits 28 to 96 gallon cans
- Design
- Two rubber coated straps with metal buckle
- Installation
- Tool free, under 1 minute
- Rating
- 4.4 stars from verified buyers
Already have garbage cans you like? Add the TrashLocker a two strap locking system that secures the lid to the can body. It adjusts to fit cans from 28 to 96 gallons and uses a metal buckle that squirrels and raccoons cannot open. Simple to install and remove on pickup day.
The rubber coated straps prevent scratching the can surface while providing a secure grip. The metal buckle mechanism is the key to its effectiveness animals cannot figure out how to release it. Rated 4.4 stars by thousands of users.
3. Bear Proof Trash Can Lock with Double Metal Claw, Most Secure
- Type
- Double metal claw locking system (2-pack)
- Material
- Double metal claw, weather resistant
- Compatibility
- Adjustable strap fits 32 to 96 gallon cans
- Installation
- Tool-free, no screws or fasteners
For maximum security, this double metal claw lock system grips the lid and body of your garbage can with extreme force. Designed for bear proofing, it is more than strong enough to stop squirrels and raccoons. The double metal claws bite into the lid and rim, making it impossible for animals to pry open.
This 2-pack of locks adjusts to fit 32 to 96 gallon cans and installs without screws or fasteners. Ideal for rural areas, campgrounds, and locations with persistent pest problems.
4. Trash Can Lid Lock Strap, Best Budget Pick
- Compatibility
- 28 to 96 gallon round and rectangular cans
- Material
- Rubber coated metal strap
- Installation
- Tool free, under 30 seconds
- Rating
- 4.3 stars from verified buyers
This affordable rubber coated metal strap wraps around your can and lid, securing it with a tight grip at an entry level price. At just $12.99, it is the most cost effective way to squirrel proof your garbage can without buying a new can or an expensive locking system.
Works with round and rectangular cans from 28 to 96 gallons. The rubber coating prevents rust and protects the can surface. A simple, effective solution for homeowners on a budget.
Best Animal Proof Compost Bins
5. VIVOSUN Outdoor Tumbling Composter, Best Enclosed Composter
- Type
- Dual bin tumbling composter
- Capacity
- 43 gallons total (2 x 21.5 gallon bins)
- Material
- Heavy duty polypropylene, UV resistant
- Rating
- 4.3 stars from verified buyers
Tumbling composters are naturally squirrel proof because they are fully enclosed and elevated off the ground. This 43 gallon dual bin composter from VIVOSUN lets you compost on one side while the other cures. The rotating mechanism makes turning effortless, and the tight sealing doors prevent any animal access.
The elevated design also prevents ground burrowing animals from accessing the contents. The dual bin system produces finished compost faster than single bin designs because you always have one side actively composting while the other finishes.
6. Galvanized Steel Compost Bin, Best Heavy Duty Composter
- Capacity
- 93 gallons (also available in 130 gal)
- Material
- Heavy duty galvanized steel
- Design
- 2 in 1 composter and storage
- Rating
- 4.2 stars from verified buyers
This 93 gallon galvanized steel compost bin is sturdy enough to resist tipping and chewing. The solid steel construction with a secure lid prevents squirrels, raccoons, and rodents from accessing food scraps. Available in two sizes 93 gallons and 130 gallons to fit any garden.
The 2 in 1 design includes a composter section and a separate storage compartment for finished compost or gardening tools. Galvanized steel will not rust or corrode in outdoor conditions. The large capacity handles a family sized garden with ease.
7. Metal Wire Mesh Composter 172 Gallon, Best Value Large Composter
- Capacity
- 172 gallons
- Material
- Heavy duty metal wire mesh
- Assembly
- Tool free, under 10 minutes
- Rating
- 4.4 stars from verified buyers
This 172 gallon heavy duty wire mesh composter provides excellent ventilation while keeping animals out. The fine mesh prevents squirrels from squeezing through, and the sturdy frame resists tipping. Assembly takes minutes with no tools required making it the easiest to set up of the composters I compared.
The large capacity handles all yard waste and kitchen scraps for a substantial garden. The open bottom design allows earthworms and beneficial microbes to access the compost pile while the mesh sides keep squirrels and larger animals out.
Place garbage cans on a level concrete or gravel surface at least 3 feet from fences and trees. Squirrels use these structures to launch themselves onto lids. A can placed in the open with no nearby jumping off points is significantly harder for squirrels to access.
How to Choose the Right Garbage Can or Compost Bin
Metal vs Plastic Garbage Cans
Metal cans are squirrel proof by default rodents cannot chew through galvanized steel. Plastic cans require lid locks or straps to prevent access. If you already own plastic cans, a $12 to $30 lock is cheaper than replacing them.
Compost Bin Features to Look For
Choose compost bins with tight sealing lids, metal or heavy duty plastic construction, and no gaps larger than 1/4 inch. Tumbling composters are inherently animal proof. Open wire mesh bins work when the mesh is fine enough to block entry.
Additional Prevention Tips
- Take cans out on pickup morning, not the night before
- Rinse cans regularly to reduce food odors. Squirrels also target vehicles: see 9 ways to keep squirrels away from your car
- Avoid composting meat, dairy, and oily foods that attract wildlife
- Position compost bins at least 10 feet from fences and trees
Frequently Asked Questions
Squirrels cannot chew through metal, but they can pry open loose fitting lids. Always ensure the lid snaps or locks securely. A metal can with a locking mechanism is fully squirrel proof.
Not reliably. Squirrels and raccoons can learn to unhook bungee cords. Purpose built lid locks with metal buckles are far more effective and worth the small investment.
Yes, squirrels can chew through plastic compost bins and squeeze through gaps in wooden bins. Enclosed tumbling composters or galvanized steel bins are the best prevention.
A galvanized steel can with a tight fitting lid is the most reliable option. For plastic cans, add a TrashLocker or similar metal buckle lid lock for complete security.
Yes, squirrels can gnaw through most plastics given time and motivation. Metal cans are the only chew proof option. For plastic cans, a tight lid lock removes the access point that draws them in.
Squirrels cannot lift heavy lids the way raccoons can, but they will exploit any gap or loose lid and gnaw a larger opening. A secure lid plus rinsing food scraps is usually enough to make them move on.
