Honestly, the best way to deodorize urban trash cans in hot summer months is to remove the source of the smell instead of just covering it up. Summer heat makes food scraps, liquids, and bacteria break down faster, so a quick spray of air freshener won’t last long.
Start by emptying the can completely, then rinse it out. Scrub the inside, lid, and bottom with hot soapy water—pay extra attention to the rim and any cracks where liquid collects. If it’s really grimy, use a enzyme cleaner or a diluted bleach solution following the label instructions. Don’t mix bleach with vinegar or other cleaners.
After washing, rinse well and let the can dry fully in the sun if possible. Moisture is the enemy here, so don’t put a new bag in while the bin is still damp. Once it’s dry, sprinkle a little baking soda or borax in the bottom to absorb odors, or place a small container of activated charcoal inside. Keep trash bags tied tightly, line the bin with newspaper or an absorbent liner, and wash the can weekly during hot weather. If you can, keep it in the shade and away from direct sun, because hot plastic bins trap odor. That routine works much better than masking the smell with sprays.