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How to Clean a Trash Can Properly

April 27, 2024

Outdoor garbage cans can get icky quickly, which isn’t surprising given the fact that they hold dirty trash.

Don’t worry, though. With regular cleaning, you can prevent the stinky garbage from causing issues.

Want to learn more about the cleaning process? How you can get rid of the pesky odors? If so, you’re at the right place.

Cleaning Materials That You’ll Need

Keeping the interior of your trash cans spic and span doesn’t have to be a hassle, particularly if you’ve got the correct materials at hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

Baking Soda: This household staple is a natural deodorizer and will help absorb odors from your garbage bin

Spray Bottle: Fill it with your homemade cleaning solution

how to clean a trash can

Dish Soap: Combined with white vinegar in your spray bottle, dish soap works as an effective degreaser

Scrub Brush: An essential tool for deep-cleaning the interior of the can, getting into corners where debris tends to accumulate. Brushes with firm bristles are best at dislodging stubborn dirt and sticky residues.


Preparing the Trash Can for Cleaning

Before you begin cleaning, remove the trash bag. Next, shake out any loose debris that may be hiding at the bottom of your garbage bin.

Apply the Cleaning Solution

Plain water won’t get you very far when it comes to cleaning a trash can; you’ll need to use something else.

Step 1: Create a Cleaning Solution

white vinegar for cleaning

Create a cleaning solution with dish detergent and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Vinegar is known for its powerful cleansing properties while dish soap will help cut through grease and grime.

Step 2: Spray the Bin

apply spray 1

Wearing a pair of rubber gloves, spray the inside of your empty bin until all surfaces are covered, then let sit for 10 minutes.

Step 3: Scrub the Bin

scrub brush

Using a scrub brush, scrub the inside and outside of the bin to eliminate any remaining odors and residue.

Step 4: Rinse With Water

paper towels

Rinse thoroughly until water runs clear then dry completely using paper towels or leave the lid open overnight if possible.

Supply:

  • Dish detergent
  • White vinegar
  • Rubber gloves
  • Paper towels


How to Clean Kitchen Trash Cans

Here are some simple steps you can follow for a fresh and clean kitchen trash bin.

Supplies:

  • Nylon brush
  • Old toothbrush (optional)
  • Water
  • Cleaning solution

Step 1:

Start by emptying out any remaining garbage bags or fast food bags from the trash can.

empty kitchen bin1

Step 2:

Using a nylon brush or scrub brush, give it a good cleaning using a vinegar and dish soap solution.

We also recommend using an old toothbrush to clean the tight corners inside the bin where dirt tends to hide.

cleaning with vinegar

Step 3:

Rinse the trash can with water, then let it air dry. You can also wipe it dry with paper towels.

rinse with water

For the best results, use warm or hot water while scrubbing – that will help break down stubborn grease or sticky substances on the surface of your bin faster than cold water would.


How to Clean Outdoor Trash Cans

Here are some tips on how to keep outdoor trash bins odorless and pest-free.

Preparing the Outdoor Trash Can for Cleaning

Before you start cleaning, there are some steps you want to take.

Supplies:

  • Rubber gloves
  • Water hose
empty outdoor trash can1

Step 1:

Start by emptying the trash can completely. Make sure to wear rubber gloves to protect your hands.

rinse with hose

Step 2:

Using a water hose, rinse out any residual stains on the trash can. That will help wash away any lingering odors and pests that are attracted by them.

To avoid messes, we recommend rinsing your outdoor trash can in a large space outside.

Applying the Cleaning Solution

A potent cleaning solution makes all the difference when tackling stubborn stains or smells.

Supplies:

  • Distilled white vinegar
  • Dish detergent
  • Water

Step 1:

In a large spray bottle, combine 4 cups of white distilled vinegar with ½ cup of dish liquid and water until it becomes foamy.

fill spray bottle

Step 2:

Spray a generous amount of the cleaning solution onto the inside and outside of the trash can. For the best results, let it sit on the surfaces for several minutes before scrubbing.

apply spray

Vinegar acts as an excellent natural cleaner while dish soap breaks down grease effectively

Scrubbing and Rinsing Your Outdoor Trash Cans

Cleaning your outdoor garbage bins might seem daunting, but it’s easier than you think. Let’s walk through the steps.

Supplies:

  • Rubber gloves
  • Scrub brush
  • Water hose
  • New garbage bags
scrub brush

Step 1:

Wearing a pair of rubber gloves, dive right in with a scrub brush; make sure to get every nook and corner.

The scrubbing action will help dislodge stuck-on gunk and allow the cleaning solution to work better.

rinse with hose

Step 2:

Drain the dirty water, then rinse the inside and outside of the trash can with a water hose. Continue until there’s no trace of soap left.

new trash bag

Step 3:

Let the trash can dry completely before popping in a fresh garbage bag.

Leaving dampness behind could lead to bad odors or worse – residue growth. So be patient and let everything air-dry overnight if needed.


Tips for Effective Trash Can Cleaning

Garbage bins, whether indoor or outdoor, need regular cleaning to prevent odors and pests. Here are some practical tips:

Maintain a Regular Cleaning Routine

It’s crucial to clean your trash cans regularly. Depending on how quickly they get dirty, this could be weekly or monthly.

Avoid Overstuffing Your Trash Bags

Packing too much into garbage bags can lead to rips and spills inside the bin. Try to prevent overfilling your bins in order to keep them tidier for longer.

Create an Efficient Cleaning Solution

dish soap1

You don’t always need expensive cleaners; sometimes simple ingredients from around the house work wonders.

A mixture of 4 cups of white distilled vinegar, about half a cup of dish liquid, and water is potent enough for most trash bins.

Scrub Thoroughly

A good scrubbing is essential in removing grime stuck at the bottom of your trash bin. Don’t forget those corners.

Rinse Until the Water Runs Clear

Rinsing until the water runs clear will ensure that all residues have been washed away – leaving no lingering smells behind.

If you’ve got outdoor cans exposed to the elements like rainwater or bird droppings – consider using a garden hose. It’s also useful if there’s heavy gunk buildup that needs power washing off.

Last but not least: Let it dry completely before putting in new liners – dampness can attract flies & contaminants.


How to Clean a Trash Can – FAQs

What is the best way to clean outside garbage cans?

To clean an outdoor bin, first empty it. Next, use a solution of white vinegar and dish soap. Scrub well with a brush then rinse until water runs clear.

How do you clean and disinfect a trash can?

Clean your trash can using dish soap and warm water. Then disinfect by spraying with a mixture of one part bleach to nine parts water. Rinse well afterwards.

What kills maggots in a trash can?

You can kill maggots in your bin by pouring boiling water into it or by using insecticide sprays specifically designed for this purpose.

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Picture of Ava Thompson

Ava Thompson

Ava Thompson is a cleaning specialist and home organization guru. Her profound knowledge, honed through years of experience, is thoughtfully shared in her thorough walkthroughs here on our blog. Ava’s pragmatic tips and innovative strategies empower individuals to transform their living spaces into models of cleanliness and order. She’s a go-to source for those seeking to enhance their home environment efficiently and effectively. She has become a key contributor on the ACTIVE blog.

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