That's a great question! A smelly trash can is a common urban problem, but it's surprisingly easy to fix and prevent. Here’s a simple, effective method using items you probably already have at home.
First, take your trash can outside or to a well-ventilated area. Put on a pair of rubber gloves. The goal is to get rid of the source of the smell, not just cover it up.
Start by giving the bin a quick rinse to remove loose debris. Then, it's time for a deep clean. Create a powerful, natural cleaning solution by mixing equal parts white vinegar and hot water in a spray bottle. For extra cleaning power, you can add a squirt of dish soap. Vinegar is fantastic at cutting through grime and neutralizing odors.
Spray the entire interior of the can generously with your vinegar solution. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes; this gives the vinegar time to break down any sticky residues and kill odor-causing bacteria.
After it has soaked, grab a long-handled scrub brush or an old sponge and give the inside a good scrub. Pay special attention to the bottom and the sides where spills tend to linger. Once you've scrubbed every surface, rinse the can thoroughly with a hose or in your shower until all the soap and vinegar are gone.
This next step is the secret to a fresh-smelling can. While the bin is still wet, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda all over the bottom. Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that will absorb any lingering smells. Let the can air dry completely in the sun if possible, as sunlight also helps kill bacteria.
For ongoing freshness, make a habit of putting a thin layer of baking soda at the bottom of a clean, dry bag each time you take the trash out. This will help absorb smells before they ever have a chance to take hold. With this routine, your urban trash can will stay clean and odor-free