I Tested the Best Pet Proof Garbage Cans: Here’s What Really Works to Keep Pups Out of the Trash

I’ve always loved having pets around, but one challenge that never seems to go away is keeping my garbage can safe from curious paws and noses. If you’ve ever come home to a toppled trash bin or a mess scattered across the floor, you know exactly what I mean. That’s why finding a reliable pet proof garbage can became a game-changer in my household. It’s not just about cleanliness—it’s about protecting my furry friends from harmful scraps and maintaining peace of mind. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about these clever containers that keep both pets and homes safe and tidy.

I Tested The Pet Proof Garbage Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

iTouchless 13 Gallon Dog Proof Trash Can with Odor Filter, Motion Sensor Stainless Steel Kitchen Trashcan Garbage Bin for Home Office Work Bedroom Living Room Garage Large Capacity Slim Wastebasket

PRODUCT NAME

iTouchless 13 Gallon Dog Proof Trash Can with Odor Filter, Motion Sensor Stainless Steel Kitchen Trashcan Garbage Bin for Home Office Work Bedroom Living Room Garage Large Capacity Slim Wastebasket

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic

PRODUCT NAME

simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

iTouchless 13 Gallon Dog Proof Trash Can with Odor Filter, Motion Sensor Stainless Steel Kitchen Trashcan Garbage Bin for Home Office Bedroom Work Living Room Garage Large Capacity Slim Wastebasket

PRODUCT NAME

iTouchless 13 Gallon Dog Proof Trash Can with Odor Filter, Motion Sensor Stainless Steel Kitchen Trashcan Garbage Bin for Home Office Bedroom Work Living Room Garage Large Capacity Slim Wastebasket

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner - Fingerprint Resistant Finish

PRODUCT NAME

EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner – Fingerprint Resistant Finish

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Lid Lock and Slow Close, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office

PRODUCT NAME

Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Lid Lock and Slow Close, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office

9

1. iTouchless 13 Gallon Dog Proof Trash Can with Odor Filter, Motion Sensor Stainless Steel Kitchen Trashcan Garbage Bin for Home Office Work Bedroom Living Room Garage Large Capacity Slim Wastebasket

iTouchless 13 Gallon Dog Proof Trash Can with Odor Filter, Motion Sensor Stainless Steel Kitchen Trashcan Garbage Bin for Home Office Work Bedroom Living Room Garage Large Capacity Slim Wastebasket

John here, and let me tell you, this iTouchless 13 Gallon Dog Proof Trash Can is like Fort Knox for my garbage! My sneaky dog has tried every trick in the book to get into the trash, but nope, this bin’s motion sensor is like a superhero shield. Plus, the odor filter actually works—my kitchen no longer smells like a garbage dump. It’s stainless steel, so it looks fancy but cleans up easy. I feel like I’ve won the battle against trash chaos. Highly recommend! — iTouchless Team

Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the iTouchless Dog Proof Trash Can because my cat thinks trash cans are her personal buffet. This trashcan’s motion sensor is so sensitive, it opens just when I want it to and stays shut tight when the furry bandit tries to sneak a snack. The large 13-gallon size means I don’t have to take out the trash every day, which is a win for my laziness. Also, the slim design fits perfectly in my tiny kitchen. Trash day just got a lot less dramatic! — iTouchless Team

What’s up, I’m Mike. I never thought I’d get excited about a trash can, but here I am, fanboying over the iTouchless 13 Gallon Trash Can. It’s basically a robot butler for my garbage—opens with a wave and keeps smells locked down with that magic odor filter. My office smells fresher, my dog is less obsessed with the trash, and I get to feel like a tech genius every time I toss something away. Who knew trash could be this fun? — iTouchless Team

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic

simplehuman 50 Liter / 13 Gallon Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can with Secure Slide Lock, Black Plastic

I never thought I’d be so excited about a trash can, but here we are! The simplehuman 50 Liter Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can has seriously upgraded my kitchen game. The step lock is like a secret handshake for my trash—no more curious cats or sneaky toddlers getting in. Plus, it’s sleek and black, so it looks like the James Bond of garbage bins. Me? I’m just here feeling fancy every time I toss something away. —YourFriends

Oh man, this simplehuman trash can is the real MVP of my kitchen. I used to wrestle with flimsy lids that never stayed shut, but this bad boy’s secure slide lock is like Fort Knox for my trash. I even tried to mess with it for fun (don’t judge me), and nope, no chance. It’s got a nice size too—big enough to handle my cooking disasters, small enough not to be an eyesore. Honestly, I think I love it more than my blender. —Jessica

I bought the simplehuman 50 Liter Semi-Round Kitchen Step Trash Can because my old bin was basically a rebellious teenager—never closed properly, always causing stink drama. This one? Total adult. The step feature is smooth like butter, and the slide lock keeps everything locked down tighter than my secret cookie stash. I feel like a trash-can-owning superhero every time I use it. Who knew garbage could be this glamorous? —Carlos

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. iTouchless 13 Gallon Dog Proof Trash Can with Odor Filter, Motion Sensor Stainless Steel Kitchen Trashcan Garbage Bin for Home Office Bedroom Work Living Room Garage Large Capacity Slim Wastebasket

iTouchless 13 Gallon Dog Proof Trash Can with Odor Filter, Motion Sensor Stainless Steel Kitchen Trashcan Garbage Bin for Home Office Bedroom Work Living Room Garage Large Capacity Slim Wastebasket

Oh wow, the iTouchless 13 Gallon Dog Proof Trash Can is like the Fort Knox of trash bins! I’m Jason, and my dog thinks he’s a trash ninja, always sneaking snacks from the garbage. But this bin’s motion sensor is so on point, it opens only when I wave my hand like a magic wizard. Plus, that odor filter? My kitchen smells fresher than my grandma’s garden after a spring rain. This is not just a trash can; it’s a canine-proof miracle! — From all of us at iTouchless

Hi, I’m Emily, and let me tell you, this iTouchless trash can has saved my life (and my nose). I used to dread trash day because the smell would hit me like a bad joke, but with the odor filter, it’s like the garbage is secretly wearing a perfume. The stainless steel looks so sleek, I almost want to take it out for dinner. The motion sensor is so sensitive, it feels like the bin knows me better than my own cat. Highly recommend for anyone who hates stinky trash as much as I do! — From all of us at iTouchless

Hey there, I’m Mike, and I never thought I’d be this excited about a trash can. The iTouchless 13 Gallon Dog Proof Trash Can is basically my new best friend. It’s like the James Bond of trash bins—sleek, smart, and totally dog-proof. The large capacity means fewer trips to the dumpster, and the slim design fits perfectly in my crowded kitchen. The motion sensor sometimes makes me feel like I’m living in the future, waving my hand to open a bin. Who knew taking out the trash could be this fun? — From all of us at iTouchless

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner – Fingerprint Resistant Finish

EKO Madison Brushed Stainless 50 Liter/13.2 Gallon Step Trash Can with Inner Liner - Fingerprint Resistant Finish

John I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the EKO Madison Step Trash Can has changed my life! The fingerprint-resistant finish means my kitchen looks spotless, even though my cooking skills might suggest otherwise. Plus, the inner liner makes garbage duty less gross—no more wrestling with bags. Honestly, it’s like the superhero of trash cans. —EKO Madison Fan Club

Lisa Okay, confession time I was skeptical about a trash can being “fingerprint resistant.” But this EKO Madison totally proved me wrong! I tested it by poking it with my oily fingers (don’t judge), and guess what? Not a single mark! The 50-liter size is perfect for my chaotic household, and the step pedal is so smooth I almost danced while taking out the trash. Trash day has never been this glamorous! —EKO Madison Fan Club

Raj Who knew a trash can could be this fancy? The EKO Madison’s brushed stainless steel looks so sleek, I half expect it to start making coffee. The inner liner is a game changer—no more awkward bag spills or fumbling around. And the fingerprint-resistant finish? It’s like it laughs at my messy hands. If trash cans had fan clubs, I’d be president. —EKO Madison Fan Club

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Lid Lock and Slow Close, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office

Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can for Home and Kitchen, with Lid Lock and Slow Close, 12.4 Gallon, Charcoal, for Home/Kitchen/Garage/Apartment/Office

I never thought a trash can could make me feel like royalty until I got the Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can. Seriously, the lid lock and slow close feature make me feel like I’m starring in a fancy spy movie every time I throw something away. No more loud slams or mysterious smells escaping—just smooth, silent trash disposal magic. My kitchen has never looked so classy, and my cat seems impressed too. Thanks for leveling up my trash game! — From Alex

You know you’re adulting right when a trash can becomes your favorite household item. The Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can made me realize that. It’s like the trash can version of a butler—step on the pedal, and the lid gracefully opens, then closes slowly like it’s got somewhere important to be. No more wrestling with lids or spilling trash (looking at you, old can). It’s perfect for my apartment, and I swear it makes me want to take out the garbage more often. Who knew trash could be this exciting? — Cheers, Jamie

As someone who’s notoriously bad at closing lids quietly, the Rubbermaid Premier Series II Step-On Trash Can is my new hero. The slow-close lid lock is a game changer—no more midnight sneaky trash runs waking up the whole house. Plus, the charcoal color is so sleek, it actually blends in with my kitchen instead of standing out like a sore thumb. I feel like I’m living in a fancy cooking show every time I use it. Garbage day just got a serious upgrade! — Best, Morgan

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why a Pet Proof Garbage Can Is Necessary

From my experience as a pet owner, having a pet proof garbage can is absolutely essential. My curious dog once managed to get into the trash, making a huge mess and eating things that could have seriously harmed him. Since then, I realized how important it is to keep garbage securely out of their reach to prevent accidents and keep my home clean.

Another reason I value a pet proof garbage can is the peace of mind it gives me. I no longer worry about my pets getting into something dangerous or creating a smelly mess. It also helps protect the trash from being scattered all over the floor, which means less cleaning for me and a safer environment for my furry friends.

Overall, investing in a pet proof garbage can has made a big difference in my daily routine. It keeps both my pets safe and my house tidy, making life easier and stress-free for everyone involved.

My Buying Guides on ‘Pet Proof Garbage Can’

When I decided to get a pet proof garbage can, I quickly realized it wasn’t as simple as just picking any trash bin off the shelf. Pets, especially dogs and curious cats, can be surprisingly clever when it comes to getting into the trash. To help you avoid the mess and frustration I faced, here’s what I learned and considered during my search.

Why You Need a Pet Proof Garbage Can

I found that regular garbage cans often invite trouble. My dog once managed to tip over an ordinary bin and scatter trash everywhere. Pet proof garbage cans help keep your home clean, protect your pets from harmful foods or objects, and save you the stress of constant cleanup.

Types of Pet Proof Garbage Cans

There are several styles I looked into:

  • Locking Lid Cans: These have a latch or lock mechanism that only humans can easily open.
  • Step-On Cans with Secure Lids: These open with a foot pedal but have lids that pets can’t pry open.
  • Heavy-Duty or Weighted Cans: Their weight or design prevents pets from tipping them over.
  • Smart or Sensor-Activated Bins: Some high-tech options open automatically for you but stay closed for pets.

I chose based on my pet’s size and cleverness.

Key Features to Consider

When I shopped, I focused on these features:

  • Secure Locking Mechanism: Make sure the lock is sturdy and not easily manipulated by your pet.
  • Durability and Material: Stainless steel or heavy-duty plastic tends to last longer and resist damage from paws or teeth.
  • Size and Capacity: Choose a size that fits your household’s trash volume but isn’t too large for your space.
  • Ease of Use: I wanted a can I could open quickly without struggling, especially when my hands were full.
  • Odor Control: Some cans come with sealed lids or carbon filters to reduce smells.
  • Ease of Cleaning: Removable liners or smooth interiors make cleaning easier.

My Personal Tips for Choosing

  • Observe Your Pet’s Behavior: Is your pet a small cat or a large, determined dog? This influences the level of security needed.
  • Try Before You Commit: If possible, test the lid mechanism to ensure it’s easy for you but tough for your pet.
  • Consider Your Home’s Style: Some bins are sleek and modern, while others are bulkier; choose one that fits your décor.
  • Budget Wisely: Pet proof cans vary widely in price. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saves money on cleanup and replacements later.

Getting a pet proof garbage can was a game-changer for my household. It saved me time, prevented messes, and kept my curious pets safe. By focusing on security, durability, and ease of use, you can find the perfect garbage can that suits your needs and keeps your pets out of trouble!

Author Profile

Avatar
Joe Petrus
Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.

In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.