That stubborn foul smell coming from your outdoor trash bin is something we've all dealt with, and thankfully, there are several effective ways to tackle it. First, give your bin a thorough cleaning. Empty it completely, then use a garden hose to rinse out any debris. Create a cleaning solution by mixing equal parts white vinegar and water, or use a mild bleach solution (one part bleach to ten parts water). Scrub the interior thoroughly with a long-handled brush, paying special attention to the bottom and sides where grime builds up. Rinse it well and let it air dry completely in the sun, as sunlight acts as a natural disinfectant and deodorizer.
For ongoing odor control, sprinkle baking soda at the bottom of the clean, dry bin. Baking soda is excellent at absorbing and neutralizing smells. You can also place a few charcoal briquettes in a mesh bag at the bottom; charcoal is another powerful natural odor absorber. To prevent future smells, make it a habit to line your bin with trash bags and avoid throwing away loose, wet garbage whenever possible. Regularly rinsing the bin after trash collection day can also make a big difference. With these simple steps, you can keep your outdoor trash bin smelling fresh and clean.