That's an excellent and important question! Dealing with raw meat packaging is a common concern, and taking a few extra minutes to clean your trash can can prevent odors, bacteria, and pests. Here's a simple, safe routine I follow.
First, always wear disposable gloves for protection. After tossing the meat packaging, immediately take the full trash bag out for disposal. If any liquid leaked, carefully wipe the inside with paper towels and discard them in the bag.
For a thorough clean, take the empty bin outside. Use a hose or a bucket of warm water. Mix a disinfectant solution—a bleach solution (1/2 cup household bleach per gallon of water) is very effective, but ensure good ventilation. Alternatively, use a commercial disinfectant or a vinegar and baking soda paste for a natural option.
Scrub the entire interior, focusing on the bottom and sides, with a long-handled brush or dedicated scrubber. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. Let the can air-dry completely in the sun if possible, as sunlight is a natural disinfectant. Finally, line it with a fresh bag.
Doing this monthly, or immediately after disposing of potential contaminants like raw meat waste, keeps your urban space cleaner and safer.