Warm Weather Trash Cart Tips for Dealing with Animal Pests

Town of Bedford, MA – May 13, 2025 – With warmer weather approaching, rodents are becoming more active, and your trash cart can be a prime target for pests. To help Bedford residents keep rodents and other neighborhood pests out of their trash, DPW is providing important tips for managing trash carts during the warmer months.

Squirrels, rats, and raccoons are drawn to food sources, and food waste in trash carts is an easy attractant. With a few simple precautions, residents can reduce the chances of an infestation by keeping their trash tightly sealed and free from enticing smells.

1. Keep the Lid Completely Closed
Bedford residents are provided with standard issue wheeled trash carts, and it is important that the lid is completely closed. A tightly sealed lid is the first line of defense against rodents. If your cart lid is damaged and no longer closes properly, please contact the Department of Public Works (DPW) at 781-275-7605 or email trashrecycling@bedfordma.gov for a repair or lid replacement.

2. Store Carts in a Secure Area
 Whenever possible, store your trash cart in a garage, shed, or another secure location to prevent easy access for rodents. 

3. Avoid Overfilling the Cart
Overstuffed carts can leave gaps or make it difficult to close the lid fully. Ensure that trash is placed properly and does not exceed the capacity of the cart. If you often need extra space, consider requested an additional trash cart (annual fees apply). 

4. Subscribe to Curbside Organics Carts
Keeping food waste out of the trash is not only good pest prevention, but also good for the environment, too. For residents who subscribe to curbside pickup, Bedford provides a green curbside organics cart with locking lid. A secondary lock can also be requested through your Black Earth Compost account at no cost, a great option for neighborhoods where rodent activity is a particular concern. Weekly service is offered at just $3.74/week or less than the cost of 2 overflow trash bags. Sign up at www.blackearthcompost.com

6. Participate in the Free Community Food Waste Drop-Off Program
If curbside service isn't feasible, residents can still keep food waste out of the trash by participating in the community food waste drop-off program at the Bedford Recycling Center (BRC). Sign up for the program on the Town’s website to contribute to reducing food waste and minimize rodent activity around your trash.

7. Clean Your Cart Regularly
Food residue left in trash carts can attract rodents and other pests. To keep carts clean, rinse them with hot water and mild detergent as needed to remove any lingering food scraps. This will also help minimize odors that could draw in pests. A number of private companies offer curbside trash cart cleaning services, too!

8. Secure Trash Bags
 Always place trash in sturdy, tightly tied bags before putting it in the cart. This prevents odors from escaping and reduces the chance of rodents chewing holes in the cart to access the food inside.

By following these simple tips, Bedford residents can help ensure their trash carts remain secure and less inviting to rodents during the warmer months.

For more information or additional tips on managing trash carts, contact the DPW at 781-275-7605 or trashrecycling@bedfordma.gov.