Pill bugs, also known as roly-polies or woodlice, are common pests that can invade outdoor trash cans, attracted by moisture and decaying organic matter. To keep them away, follow these effective strategies:

1. Keep Trash Cans Dry: Pill bugs thrive in damp environments. Ensure your trash cans have proper drainage and avoid letting water accumulate inside. Regularly wipe down the interior to remove moisture.

2. Use Tight-Fitting Lids: Secure lids prevent pill bugs from accessing food scraps. Opt for trash cans with airtight or snap-lock lids to deter these pests.

3. Clean Trash Cans Regularly: Residual food and odors attract pill bugs. Rinse and scrub your bins weekly with a mixture of vinegar and water to eliminate lingering smells.

4. Elevate Trash Cans: Place bins on raised platforms or stands to reduce ground contact, making it harder for pill bugs to climb inside.

5. Apply Natural Repellents: Sprinkle diatomaceous earth or cedar shavings around the trash can. These natural substances repel pill bugs without harming the environment.

6. Reduce Organic Waste: Compost food scraps separately to minimize attractants in your trash. Pill bugs are less likely to invade bins with less decaying matter.

By implementing these methods, you can significantly reduce pill bug infestations and maintain cleaner, pest-free outdoor trash cans.