That's a great question! Taking care of your outdoor trash bin during the off-season, like winter or long periods of non-use, can extend its life and prevent nasty surprises later. Here’s a natural, step-by-step method I follow.
First, give it a thorough clean. Empty the bin completely. Then, hose it down inside and out. I like to use a long-handled brush with a mix of warm water and dish soap or a bit of vinegar to scrub away grime and neutralize odors. A baking soda paste works wonders for tough stains. Rinse it thoroughly and let it dry completely in the sun—this is crucial to prevent mold.
Once it's bone-dry, find a good storage spot. The ideal place is a dry, sheltered area like a garage, shed, or under a covered patio. If you must leave it outside, turn it upside down to stop rainwater, snow, or pests from getting in. You can also bungee the lid shut (if it has one) to keep it from blowing away.
A pro tip: right before storing it, toss in a few unused dryer sheets or a small, open box of baking soda at the bottom. This helps absorb any residual moisture and keeps it smelling fresh. When the season rolls back around, your bin will be ready to go without the need for a deep clean.