That's a great and practical question! Cleaning a public trash can isn't quite as simple as hosing out your backyard bin. While it might seem like a quick rinse would do the trick, there's a bit more to it for effective sanitation and odor control.
Honestly, just hosing it out is a start, but it's often not enough. A strong jet of water can remove loose debris and some surface grime. However, it won't effectively break down sticky residues, kill germs, or eliminate the source of bad smells. You might just be spreading bacteria around or pushing gunk into the drain holes.
For a proper clean, here’s what’s typically needed:
1. Safety First: Always wear heavy-duty gloves and consider eye protection.
2. Empty It Completely: Remove all trash and liners if present.
3. Pre-rinse: Use a hose or pressure washer to remove loose particles.
4. Scrub: Apply a dedicated cleaner or disinfectant (like a bleach solution or commercial degreaser) and scrub all interior surfaces, the lid, and the exterior with a long-handled brush.
5. Final Rinse: Thoroughly rinse away all cleaning solutions.
6. Disinfect: Allow a disinfectant to sit for the recommended contact time.
7. Dry: Let it air dry completely before putting in a new bag to prevent mold.
So, can you *just* hose it out? For a basic, visual clean, maybe. But for a hygienic, odor-free result that truly maintains public health standards, a proper scrub with the right cleaners is essential. Many city maintenance crews use specialized washing stations or high-temperature pressure washers for this very reason.