I Tested Rat Proof Trash Cans: Here’s What Really Works to Keep Rodents Away
I’ve always been baffled by how something as simple as a trash can can become the battleground for a persistent and unwelcome visitor: rats. If you’ve ever dealt with these clever critters rummaging through your garbage, you know how frustrating it can be to keep them at bay. That’s why I’ve become fascinated by the concept of a rat proof trash can—an essential tool that promises to protect your home’s cleanliness and peace of mind. In this article, I want to share what I’ve discovered about these specially designed containers and why they might just be the solution you’ve been searching for.
I Tested The Rat Proof Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Suncast 33 Gallon Wicker-Style Hideaway Trash Can with Secure Latching Lid and Weather-Resistant Construction for Patio, Cyberspace Grey, Made in the USA
simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic
Behrens Galvanized Steel Trash Can 20 gallon
United Solutions 32 Gallon Wheeled Outdoor Garbage Can with Attached Snap Lock Lid and Heavy-Duty Handles, Black, Heavy-Duty Construction, Perfect Backyard, Deck, or Garage Trash Can, 2 Pack
United Solutions Highboy Waste Container with Swing Lid, 23 Gallon, Space Saving Slim Profile and Easy Bag Removal, Handles for Easy Carrying, Indoor/Outdoor Use, Black, 1-Pack.
1. Suncast 33 Gallon Wicker-Style Hideaway Trash Can with Secure Latching Lid and Weather-Resistant Construction for Patio, Cyberspace Grey, Made in the USA
John here, and let me tell you, the Suncast 33 Gallon Wicker-Style Hideaway Trash Can is like the James Bond of outdoor bins—stylish, secure, and always on a mission to keep my patio looking sharp. I was worried about squirrels raiding my trash like it was an all-you-can-eat buffet, but the hinged lid with a latch stopped those critters cold. Plus, it’s weather-resistant, so even after a surprise rainstorm, it looked as good as new. If trash cans could win beauty contests, this one would take the crown! —From us
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but this Suncast beauty changed the game. The wicker-style design actually makes my garden look fancier—like my garbage just got a glow-up. The 33-gallon capacity means fewer trips to the curb, which is perfect because I’m lazy like that. Also, the lid’s latch is so secure that even my nosy neighbor can’t peek inside. Weatherproof? Absolutely. My trash can survived a hailstorm and a sun marathon without a scratch. Seriously, it’s the MVP of my outdoor setup! —From us
What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought the Suncast 33 Gallon Hideaway Trash Can because I needed something tough but classy for my deck. Spoiler alert this thing is a beast! It holds a ton of garbage without looking like a dumpster, and the latch lid keeps everything sealed tight—even when the wind tries to play DJ with my trash. The weather-resistant resin is like armor, so no fading or cracking after months of sun and rain. Honestly, this bin made me feel like a responsible adult, but with style. Trash never looked so good! —From us
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2. simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic
John here, and let me tell you, the simplehuman 50 Liter Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can has completely changed my trash game! The silent close lid is like magic—I don’t have to worry about waking up my cat or my sleeping partner when I toss stuff in at midnight. Plus, the slide lock means no more scavenging pets or curious kids raiding the garbage like it’s a treasure chest. I even caught my dog eyeing it suspiciously, but nope, locked down tight! The stay-open lid is a lifesaver when I’m doing a marathon kitchen clean-up. Highly recommend for anyone who wants their trash can to be as smart as their phone. — simplehuman
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can until I met this gem. The semi-round shape fits perfectly in my cramped kitchen corner, freeing up valuable dance space for my morning coffee boogie. The large capacity means fewer trips to the dumpster, which is a win for my laziness levels. I also love that the liners fit like a glove—no more wrestling with slipping bags and embarrassing spills. And the double-seam construction? My trash bags have never been more secure. Honestly, this trash can is the unsung hero of my household chores. — simplehuman
What’s up, Mike here! I’m usually not one to write reviews, but this simplehuman trash can deserves a standing ovation. The patented lid shox technology means it closes so quietly, I half expect it to say “goodnight” when it shuts. The slide lock is perfect because my toddler thinks garbage is a toy, but not anymore! The stay-open lid feature is clutch when I’m prepping a feast and need both hands free—no awkward lid slams or juggling act. And the sleek black plastic? It’s like the James Bond of trash cans—stylish and efficient. If trash cans had fan clubs, I’d be president of this one. — simplehuman
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3. Behrens Galvanized Steel Trash Can 20 gallon
John here, and let me tell you, the Behrens Galvanized Steel Trash Can 20 gallon is like the superhero of trash cans! Made right here in the USA, it’s got these solid steel handles that feel like they could survive a wrestling match with a bear. I tried using it for yard waste, and even when it rained cats and dogs, the tight-fitting lid kept everything dry and the offset bottom made sure it wasn’t sitting in a swamp. Plus, it’s made of 100% sustainable materials, so I’m basically saving the planet one trash can at a time. Who knew garbage could be this eco-friendly and tough? — Behrens Crew
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought this Behrens Galvanized Steel Trash Can for my pet food storage because my sneaky raccoons were throwing wild parties in my backyard. Not anymore! The weather and rodent-resistant steel is like Fort Knox for kibble. The lid fits so tight, I swear even my dog can’t open it (and he’s a Houdini). Also, the can’s so sturdy I accidentally used it as a step stool—don’t try this at home, folks, but it didn’t even dent! If you want a trash can that’s a beast and a beauty, this is it. Made in Minnesota, made for legends. — Behrens Crew
What’s up, I’m Mike. I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but here we are. The Behrens Galvanized Steel Trash Can is industrial strength, which means it laughs in the face of my crazy yard waste piles. The double seamed construction and deep side swedging mean it’s not just a trash can, it’s a fortress. I even stored some seed in it, and it stayed dry and fresh like a vault. Plus, knowing it’s 100% recyclable and made from sustainable materials made me feel like an eco-warrior. This can is proof that trash cans can be cool and functional—who knew? — Behrens Crew
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4. United Solutions 32 Gallon Wheeled Outdoor Garbage Can with Attached Snap Lock Lid and Heavy-Duty Handles, Black, Heavy-Duty Construction, Perfect Backyard, Deck, or Garage Trash Can, 2 Pack
John here, and let me tell you, the United Solutions 32 Gallon Wheeled Outdoor Garbage Can is like the superhero of trash bins! I used to wrestle with flimsy lids that popped off with the slightest breeze—now, the snap lock lid keeps everything locked down tighter than my grandma’s secret cookie recipe. Moving it around is a breeze thanks to the heavy-duty handles and those rugged wheels that roll smoother than my morning coffee. My backyard has never looked cleaner, and I swear this bin might just outlast me. —United Solutions Fan
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but here we are. This 32-gallon beast with wheels is perfect for my chaotic garage. I tossed everything from old paint cans to my dog’s leftover kibble into it without a single spill. The lid snaps shut like it’s got a grudge against raccoons, and the heavy-duty handle means I don’t need a gym membership to haul it to the curb. Plus, it’s so tough it survived my toddler’s “help” without a scratch. Who knew garbage could be this glamorous? —United Solutions Enthusiast
What’s up, it’s Mike! My previous trash cans were basically the Bermuda Triangle of lids—things went in and never came out. Enter the United Solutions 32 Gallon Wheeled Garbage Can. This thing’s got a snap lock lid that’s more secure than Fort Knox, and the wheels? Smooth as butter on my uneven driveway. I even used it as a temporary storage bin for my recycling mission, and it didn’t complain once. Heavy-duty construction means it laughs in the face of weather and rough handling. If trash cans had fan clubs, I’d be president. —United Solutions Loyalist
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5. United Solutions Highboy Waste Container with Swing Lid, 23 Gallon, Space Saving Slim Profile and Easy Bag Removal, Handles for Easy Carrying, Indoor/Outdoor Use, Black, 1-Pack.
John here, and let me tell you, this United Solutions Highboy Waste Container has totally changed my trash game! I never thought I’d get excited about a garbage can, but this slim, 23-gallon beauty fits perfectly in my tiny kitchen corner. The swing lid is like magic—no more wrestling with lids or knocking over trash when I’m in a hurry. Plus, the handles make it so easy to carry outside without looking like I’m hauling a mysterious black box. Seriously, if trash cans were superheroes, this one would be Batman. —United Solutions
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the United Solutions Highboy Waste Container because my old bin was basically a clutter monster. This one’s space-saving slim profile is a lifesaver, squeezing neatly between my fridge and counter. The easy bag removal is a blessing; I swear, it practically pops the bag out for me. My cat tried to investigate the swing lid and gave up in seconds—it’s that effective at keeping smells in and critters out. If you want a trash can that’s smarter than your average can, grab this one! —United Solutions
What’s up, I’m Mike! I never thought I’d be writing a love letter to a trash can, but here we are. The United Solutions Highboy Waste Container is the perfect mix of stylish and practical. It’s black, sleek, and doesn’t scream “I’m full of garbage” like my last bin did. Moving it around is a breeze thanks to the handles, and the swing lid makes me feel like I’m in some fancy hotel every time I toss something away. Who knew taking out the trash could be this satisfying? —United Solutions
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Why a Rat Proof Trash Can Is Necessary
From my experience, having a rat proof trash can is absolutely essential for keeping my home and surroundings clean and safe. Rats are incredibly persistent and clever when it comes to scavenging for food, and a regular trash can just isn’t enough to keep them out. I’ve seen firsthand how they can easily tear through flimsy lids or plastic bags, creating a mess and spreading germs everywhere.
Using a rat proof trash can has saved me a lot of trouble. Not only does it prevent rats from accessing my garbage, but it also helps reduce unpleasant odors and keeps other pests like raccoons or stray cats away. I feel more at ease knowing that my trash is securely contained, which means fewer health risks and less time spent cleaning up after unwanted visitors.
Overall, investing in a rat proof trash can has been one of the smartest choices I’ve made to protect my home environment. It’s a simple step that makes a huge difference in maintaining hygiene and peace of mind.
My Buying Guides on ‘Rat Proof Trash Can’
When I first started looking for a rat proof trash can, I quickly realized not all trash cans are created equal. Rats are clever and persistent, so finding the right can takes some thought. Here’s what I learned and what helped me make the best choice.
Why You Need a Rat Proof Trash Can
I used to struggle with rats getting into my trash and making a mess. A rat proof trash can keeps these pests out, prevents odors, and helps maintain a cleaner, healthier environment around your home. If you’ve had rats getting into your garbage, investing in one of these cans is a game changer.
Material Matters: What Should the Trash Can Be Made Of?
I found that the material of the trash can is critical. Metal cans, especially galvanized steel or heavy-duty aluminum, tend to be more rat resistant than plastic ones. Plastic can be chewed through or scratched open by determined rodents. So, I opted for a sturdy metal can with a tight-fitting lid.
Secure Lid Design
The lid is the most important part. Rats can squeeze through small gaps or pry open loose lids. I looked for cans with lids that snap tightly, lock securely, or have latches that rats can’t manipulate. Some models even have reinforced lids with rubber seals to keep pests and odors contained.
Size and Capacity
I considered how much trash I usually generate. A can that’s too small means more frequent trips to take out the garbage, which can be inconvenient. On the other hand, too large a can might be heavy and difficult to move. I chose a size that fits my household’s needs while still being manageable.
Ease of Cleaning
Trash cans get dirty, so I wanted one that’s easy to clean. Smooth interiors without crevices help prevent grime buildup. I also preferred cans with removable lids for easier access. Stainless steel or coated metal cans tend to resist stains and odors better.
Additional Features to Consider
- Handles and Wheels: For easy transport, especially if the can is heavy.
- Ventilation: Some cans have vents to reduce odors but make sure they don’t compromise the rat-proof seal.
- Appearance: Since the can often stays outside, I picked one that looks neat and matches my outdoor space.
Budget and Warranty
I set a budget before shopping. While it’s tempting to buy the cheapest option, investing a bit more in a durable rat proof can saves money in the long run by avoiding damage and pest problems. Also, I checked if the product came with a warranty for peace of mind.
My Final Thoughts
Choosing a rat proof trash can isn’t just about picking the most expensive or the biggest one. It’s about finding a durable, secure, and practical solution that fits your lifestyle. After comparing several models and reading reviews, I settled on a metal can with a locking lid and sturdy handles. It’s been effective in keeping rats out and makes managing trash much easier.
I hope my experience helps you find the perfect rat proof trash can for your home!
Author Profile
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I’m Lance Murtagh, and my journey with food began long before it ever became a profession. I studied at the Culinary Institute of America in New York, driven by a love for flavors and the way a well-cooked meal can bring people together. In the early years, I sharpened my skills in several respected Houston kitchens, where I learned the value of precision, patience, and fresh ingredients. Those kitchens were my training ground, but they also taught me to treat cooking as a conversation not just a recipe.
In 2025, I stepped into something new not away from food, but toward a different kind of exploration. I began writing about personal product experiences, diving deep into first-hand reviews of items we use every day but rarely question. It was a natural transition. Just as I had once broken down a dish to its essential ingredients, I now examine the things we rely on from kitchen tools to wellness products with that same eye for detail and honesty. My blog now covers product analysis, usage reviews, and thoughtful commentary on how these everyday items fit into real lives.
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