8 Ways to Hide Your Outdoor Trash Cans – 2025 Guide
Outdoor trash cans are essential, but they don’t always contribute to curb appeal. Whether you live in a suburban neighborhood or a city home with limited space, finding creative ways to hide your garbage bins can transform the look of your exterior. This guide explores 8 practical, stylish, and budget-friendly solutions to conceal your trash cans while keeping them accessible for collection days.
Table of Contents
- Why Hide Your Trash Cans
- 1. Install a Patavin Outdoor Privacy Post System
- 2. Build a Wooden Trash Can Enclosure
- 3. Add a Decorative Lattice Screen
- 4. Plant Shrubs or Hedges
- 5. Use a Trash Can Storage Shed
- 6. Create a Side-Yard Niche
- 7. Install a Trellis with Climbing Plants
- 8. Camouflage with Paint or Panels
- Summary Table
- References
Why Hide Your Trash Cans
Trash cans are practical, but leaving them in plain sight can create an unsightly view. Here’s why hiding them makes sense:
- Improves curb appeal: Concealed bins instantly make your exterior more polished and organized.
- Reduces odor exposure: Helps minimize unpleasant smells near your front porch or backyard.
- Keeps pests away: Hidden trash cans discourage raccoons, possums, and stray animals from rummaging.
- Meets HOA requirements: Many neighborhoods require garbage bins to be stored out of sight.
1. Install a Patavin Outdoor Privacy Post System
The Patavin Outdoor Privacy Post System is one of the most elegant and versatile ways to hide your trash cans while enhancing your outdoor space. This modular system allows you to build a custom enclosure that blends with your patio, deck, or yard design.
Key Features
- Modular Intelligence: The patented 9-Post System adapts to any terrain, including slopes and stairs. You can add panels, planter shelves, or solar caps for a personalized look.
- Built to Outlast: Choose between powder-coated aluminum (rust-proof) or composite wood posts with a 50-year warranty. Engineered to withstand winds up to 90 mph (ASTM E330 compliance).
- DIY-Friendly: No heavy equipment needed — two people can install 20 feet of fencing in under 3 hours.
Available Kits
- END POST KIT 6' - E6
- LINE POST KIT 6' - L6
- CORNER POST KIT 6' - C6
- END POST KIT 8' - E8
- LINE POST KIT 8' - L8
- CORNER POST KIT 8' - C8
This solution is perfect for homeowners looking for a premium, long-term option to hide trash cans and improve outdoor privacy.
2. Build a Wooden Trash Can Enclosure
If you enjoy DIY projects, building a wooden trash can enclosure is a cost-effective and customizable solution.
- Use treated lumber or cedar for durability and weather resistance.
- Include a hinged lid for easy access on garbage day.
- Stain or paint to match your fence or deck for a cohesive look.
3. Add a Decorative Lattice Screen
Lattice panels are a quick way to hide bins while allowing airflow to prevent odors from building up.
- Install on three sides for a freestanding solution.
- Plant climbing vines to create a green, natural barrier.
- Lightweight and affordable for small yards.
4. Plant Shrubs or Hedges
A natural approach to concealment is to plant dense shrubs or hedges around the bin area.
- Low-maintenance evergreens such as boxwood or pittosporum work well year-round.
- Provides both coverage and improved landscaping aesthetics.
- Eco-friendly and blends seamlessly into gardens.
5. Use a Trash Can Storage Shed
Storage sheds designed for trash bins offer a clean, enclosed solution.
- Available in resin, wood, or metal options.
- Lockable doors keep animals out and bins secure.
- Often doubles as storage for garden tools or recycling bins.
6. Create a Side-Yard Niche
If you have a side yard, you can designate a specific area with a small gate or screen.
- Helps keep trash bins completely out of sight from the street.
- Easy to access while staying within property boundaries.
- Combine with gravel or pavers for a clean finish.
7. Install a Trellis with Climbing Plants
A trellis is a functional and decorative way to hide trash bins while adding greenery.
- Choose climbing plants like jasmine, ivy, or clematis for a fragrant screen.
- Lightweight and movable design makes it flexible for renters.
- Creates a vertical garden look that enhances outdoor appeal.
8. Camouflage with Paint or Panels
For a budget-friendly option, consider camouflaging your trash cans with paint or attach decorative panels.
- Use exterior-grade paint in colors that match your house or fence.
- Add weather-resistant panels or decals to blend with surroundings.
- Quick weekend project with minimal tools required.
Summary Table
| Method | Material | Difficulty | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Patavin Outdoor Privacy Post System | Aluminum / Composite | Moderate | Premium, customizable enclosures |
| Wooden Trash Can Enclosure | Wood | High (DIY build) | DIY enthusiasts |
| Lattice Screen | Wood / PVC | Low | Quick, affordable solutions |
| Shrubs or Hedges | Live Plants | Medium (growing time) | Natural landscaping lovers |
| Trash Can Storage Shed | Resin / Metal / Wood | Medium | Secure and weather-proof storage |
| Side-Yard Niche | Gate / Screen | Medium | Homeowners with side yard space |
| Trellis with Climbing Plants | Wood / Metal | Low | Green aesthetic seekers |
| Paint or Decorative Panels | Paint / Panels | Low | Budget-conscious homeowners |