Cleaning a deep outdoor trash bin might seem like a daunting chore, but with the right approach, you can tackle the grime, eliminate odors, and keep pests at bay. Here’s a simple, effective method using common household supplies.
First, gather your materials. You will need rubber gloves, a long-handled scrub brush, a garden hose, baking soda, white vinegar or a mild dish soap, and optionally, a disinfectant spray or bleach.
Start by taking the bin to a well-ventilated area, preferably on a sunny day. Position it on a slight incline so water can drain easily. Rinse the entire interior with a strong stream of water from your garden hose to loosen and remove surface debris.
Next, create your cleaning solution. For a natural clean, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda across the bottom of the bin. Then, pour in about a cup or two of white vinegar. The fizzing action will help break down grime and neutralize odors. Alternatively, you can use a mixture of warm water and a few squirts of dish soap.
Now, put on your gloves and use the long-handled scrub brush to scour the entire interior. Pay special attention to the bottom and the walls, scrubbing vigorously to remove any stuck-on residue. The long handle will save your back and keep you at a safe distance from any mess.
Once you've scrubbed every surface, thoroughly rinse the bin with your hose until all the soap, baking soda, and grime are washed away. Check to make sure the water running out is clear.
For a final disinfecting step, especially if the bin held raw food waste, you can spray the interior with a commercial disinfectant or a diluted bleach solution (mix one part bleach with nine parts water). Let it sit for about 10 minutes before giving it one last rinse.
The most crucial step is to let the trash bin dry completely in the sun before putting a new bag inside. Sunlight is a natural disinfectant and helps eliminate any remaining odors. For ongoing maintenance, sprinkle a little baking soda in the bottom of the clean, dry bin before inserting a new bag to control future smells. With this routine, your outdoor bin will stay fresh and sanitary.