Cleaning those tricky nooks and crannies around your outdoor trash bin hinges might seem daunting, but with the right approach, it's surprisingly simple. Here's my go-to method that works every time.
First, gather your supplies: rubber gloves, a stiff-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works perfectly), mild dish soap, white vinegar or baking soda, a garden hose or bucket of water, and optionally a pressure washer on low setting.
Start by giving the entire bin a good rinse to remove loose debris. Mix a cleaning solution of warm water and dish soap in a bucket. For stubborn grime or odors, add equal parts vinegar and water, or make a paste with baking soda and water.
Now for the hinge work! Dip your brush into the cleaning solution and scrub vigorously around all hinge areas. Pay special attention to the crevices where the hinge meets the bin - this is where gunk loves to hide. Use the brush tip to dig into those tight spaces, working methodically around each hinge point.
Let the cleaning solution sit for 5-10 minutes to break down any remaining residue. Then thoroughly rinse the entire bin, making sure to flush out all the soap and dislodged grime from the hinge areas. If using a pressure washer, keep it on the lowest setting and maintain a safe distance to avoid damaging the hinges.
Finish by propping the lid open and allowing the bin to air dry completely in the sun, which naturally helps kill bacteria. For ongoing maintenance, I recommend giving those hinge areas a quick scrub during your regular bin cleaning schedule - your nose will thank you later!