Dealing with a smelly outdoor trash bin is nobody's favorite task, but it's essential for maintaining a clean and pest-free home. Fortunately, you don't need expensive products—just some basic household items and about 30 minutes of your time.
First, take your bin to a well-ventilated area, preferably outside on a sunny day. Empty it completely, removing any lingering debris. For the initial rinse, use a garden hose to spray down the entire interior, focusing on stuck-on grime.
Now for the deep clean. Create a powerful cleaning solution by mixing one part white vinegar with one part water in a spray bottle. For tougher jobs, add half a cup of baking soda to the mixture. Spray this solution generously throughout the bin's interior, paying special attention to corners and the bottom where odors tend to linger. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to break down grease and eliminate bacteria.
After waiting, use a long-handled scrub brush with stiff bristles to thoroughly scrub all surfaces. The brushing action helps dislodge any remaining residue while distributing the cleaning solution evenly. For persistent stains or strong odors, you can sprinkle additional baking soda directly onto problem areas before scrubbing.
Rinse the bin completely with your hose until all cleaning residue disappears. To disinfect, spray the interior with a solution of one part water to one part rubbing alcohol or use a commercial disinfectant spray. Allow this to air dry completely in the sunlight, which provides natural bleaching and further reduces odors.
For ongoing maintenance, place a layer of baking soda or cat litter at the bottom of your clean bin to absorb future odors. Consider repeating this cleaning process monthly during warmer months when bacteria multiply faster. With these simple steps, your outdoor space will stay fresher and more hygienic throughout the year.