Keep Kids Out and Trash In

• What: SimpleHuman Semi Round Step Trash Can
• When: 12 months and up
• Why: Lids locks, foot pedal, durable
• Where: Amazon

I know trash cans don’t make the list of standard gear or supplies when stocking up in the quest to prepare for impending parenthood. But you might want to consider one with a locking lid, like our Simplehuman Semi-Round Step Trash Can.

Simplehuman Semi Round Step Trash Can on Amazon

No one ever tells you about the need for a trash can with a locking lid. While owning a smart and capable dog might vaguely prepare you for the unexpected things that happen once your offspring become mobile, you can safely assume all bets are off. If, unlike me, you don’t want to discover your toddler snacking out of the garbage can one fine day, you have a few options.

Hide your trash can behind a baby gate or closed door they can’t open. By the time they defeat the barrier, hopefully they know better than to eat out of the trash.

Our trash can with a locking lid is older than some of my kids.

Or get a trash can with a locking lid. It may seem inconvenient to have to unlock the lid every time you want to throw something away. But it beats the pants off seeing garbage go into your kid’s mouth and down their gullet. And if you have to open a door or gate as the alternative, the trash can might as well be located in a convenient place instead. Locking lids expand your location options without allowing your kids to play or snack with things better left contained.

And if it keeps the dog out of the trash, too, well, lucky you!