- My first week with foreign garbage – and what I learned from it
- Lockable lids – sensible or over the top?
- Which locks exist – and what really works
- These models lock – and keep tight
- Conclusion: A lock doesn’t replace a door, but prevents trouble
My first week with foreign garbage – and what I learned from it
I had just moved in. New nice neighborhood, fresh driveway, shiny garbage bin box – the Stahlfred stood like a monument in the corner.
What I didn’t know: There was a small garbage problem in the alley. Two houses down there was a renovation going on – and apparently no desire to pay for their own residual waste fees. At least on Tuesday evening I found not only my bin full. But also two Ikea packages, a pizza box, and a foreign baby diaper. I have neither a toddler at home nor have I eaten pizza, .. at least not since I’ve lived here.
Since then it’s clear: Lockable lids are not a gimmick – they are household peace².

Lockable lids – sensible or over the top?
Some say: “Why lock it, it’s just garbage.” I say: Exactly because of that. Garbage is intimate. It shows how we live. And above all: It costs money. Whoever disposes of it elsewhere doesn’t pay. You do.
A lock also helps against storms, animals, and gusts of wind. Because it prevents your organic waste from spreading over the parking lot during a föhn wind.
Which locks exist – and what really works
I have seen many variants by now – and tried them out:
- Magnetic locks: fast, elegant – sufficient against wind, not against people.
- Latch with lock: classic solution – effective, secure, easy to retrofit.
- Lever with key mechanism: retrofit possible on some boxes (e.g. Dagobert), standard on Stahlfred even (makes me happy :)).
The key is: The lock must fit the usage. If you dispose several times a week, you don’t want to handle four keys. But if you want to avoid unauthorized access – then you need more than a magnet.

These models lock – and keep tight
If you want to be on the safe side, then take a look at the following models:
- Dagobert – massive construction, lockable as standard, everything aligns
- Stahlfred – with locks from the factory, absolutely winter-proof
- Alubert – light, secure, lockable with latches integrated into the handles
A lock alone doesn’t make a good box. But a good box has the option. And that’s the difference.
Conclusion: A lock doesn’t replace a door, but prevents trouble
Today I go more calmly to the bin area. No more foreign garbage, no flying lids, no trouble with neighbors.
A lockable garbage bin box is a piece of order you only miss when you need it. And when you have it – you never want to miss it again.
Discover lockable garbage bin boxes now
Frequently asked questions about lockable garbage bin boxes
1. Do all garbage bin boxes have a lock?
No. Many boxes are only equipped with magnets or click mechanisms. A real lock is usually optional or included with certain models.
2. Can I retrofit a lock?
Yes – with most metal boxes like Stahlfred this is easily possible.
3. Why is a lockable lid sensible?
It protects against foreign garbage, wind, animals, and ensures clear boundaries – especially in residential complexes or on public streets.
4. Which models are particularly secure?
Dagobert, Alubert and Stahlfred – all with solid construction and lockable option.