Garbage cans are not supposed to have a pleasant smell, but there can be times when the stink is too much to bear. Even if you take the trash daily, residues can get stuck in the can and eventually cause foul smells.
On top of being unpleasant, a bad smell can be a signal for something hazardous—food bits can develop bacteria over time!
Have you been dealing with foul smells in your waste bins? Keep reading to learn how to tackle the issue!
First, clean the trash can
Before moving on, you need to clean your trash bin. You won't get rid of the odor if there are rotting residues inside it. Take note:
- Outdoor trash bin: If you are having problems with your outdoor trash bin, grab a hose, and squirt a little dish soap (better if it has an active degreaser) into the garbage bin. Then spray it with the hose and rotate the bin as you wash it—don't forget the lid.
- Indoor trash bin: Normally, indoor trash bins are smaller. Take it outdoors, fill ¾ of it with warm water, and trickle a bit of dish soap. Scrub it with a brush on the inside and outside until the grime comes off.
Once washed, tip the bin and let the water drain. When dry, apply disinfectant to kill any bacteria.
How to prevent odors in the trash bin
Maybe your trash can was clean since the beginning, yet it remains stinky. You can practice these tips to prevent or eliminate unpleasant smells—they work flawlessly for indoor and outdoor trash bins!
Cat litter
Cat litter serves a double function: it absorbs odors and moisture. Sprinkle a layer of kitty litter on the bottom of your waste bin, and it will work wonders.
It does not make a difference if it's cheap or expensive since both are equally effective in dealing with smells. The only difference will be choosing a scented litter or a neutral one.
Dryer sheets
These handy items have a variety of uses around the house, from laundry aromatizers to cleaning screens; this time, you can use them to get rid of odors.
It is better to place them into the trash bag instead of the can, as they can stick to the interior if they get wet. Once there, they'll give a fresher scent to your bin.
Baking soda
Baking soda does the work just fine when placed in your garbage can. An all-time favorite as it clears smells and absorbs moisture. Apply a layer using ¾ cup of baking soda and spread it all around the bottom of the can. After a few hours, you'll notice how the foul odors had gone.
Extra tip: Invest in quality bags
Another good way to prevent bad smells is to get deodorizing scented bags. Also, search for tear-resistant bags to avoid spilling content in your trash bin.
Too much cleaning? We can help you with the dirty work!
Dealing with garbage can be an unpleasant experience. However, you don't need to do everything by yourself! eMaids of Volusia County is your best option for top-quality cleaning services. Our highly-trained cleaning crew is ready to tackle your cleaning tasks with professionalism and care.Â
