That's a common and pretty unpleasant problem! A smelly outdoor trash can is something we all deal with. Don't worry, with a few simple steps and some basic supplies, you can get it fresh again. Here’s a natural and effective method you can try this weekend.
First, take your bin to a well-ventilated area, like your driveway or yard. Put on some rubber gloves for protection. Empty out any loose debris and give it a good preliminary rinse with a garden hose to remove the easy stuff.
Now, for the deep clean. Make a powerful cleaning solution. A classic combo is 1 cup of white vinegar and 1/2 cup of baking soda—it will fizz and help break down grime and neutralize odors. Alternatively, for tougher jobs, mix 1 cup of bleach with about 1 gallon of water. Be careful not to mix bleach with vinegar or ammonia.
Pour your chosen solution into the bottom of the can. Use a long-handled scrub brush or a dedicated toilet brush to thoroughly scrub the entire interior, paying special attention to the bottom and sides where gunk builds up. Don't forget the lid!
Let the solution sit inside for about 15-30 minutes to disinfect and tackle the odor-causing bacteria. After it soaks, rinse everything out completely with your hose until the water runs clear. Any leftover bleach or vinegar needs to be fully rinsed away.
The final, crucial step is to let it dry. Tip the can on its side or upside down in the sun. Sunlight is a great natural disinfectant and deodorizer. For ongoing freshness, sprinkle a handful of baking soda in the bottom of the dry can before you put a new bag in. It will absorb odors as you use it. Performing this clean every few months will keep those nasty smells at bay for good.