Cleaning an outdoor trash can might sound like a daunting chore, but it's actually a pretty straightforward task that you can tackle in under 30 minutes. With a few common household items and a little bit of effort, you can eliminate grime, get rid of nasty odors, and make your outdoor space more pleasant.
First, gather your supplies. You'll need heavy-duty rubber gloves, a long-handled scrub brush, a garden hose, and your cleaning agent of choice. A simple but effective solution is a mix of dish soap and warm water. For disinfecting and tackling tough stains, white vinegar or baking soda works wonders.
Here’s the basic process:
1. Take the can to a flat, open area, like your driveway, and empty it of any remaining debris.
2. Rinse the inside thoroughly with your garden hose to remove loose dirt.
3. Apply your cleaning solution—soapy water, vinegar, or a baking soda paste—and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to break down the gunk.
4. Scrub every surface, especially the bottom and sides, with your long-handled brush.
5. Give it a final, powerful rinse until the water runs clear.
6. Tip the can over to let it air dry completely in the sun, which acts as a natural disinfectant.
For an even easier method, if you own a pressure washer, it can cut the cleaning time in half. A quick blast can power off most of the residue without the need for intense scrubbing.
So, is it easy? Absolutely. Establishing a simple routine, like giving your bin a quick clean each time you put it out for collection, can make the job even faster and keep your outdoor area smelling fresh all season long.