Cleaning your outdoor trash bin might not be fun, but it's essential for hygiene and pest control. Here's a simple, effective method. First, gather supplies: heavy-duty gloves, a long-handled scrub brush, a garden hose, biodegradable dish soap or a dedicated bin cleaner, white vinegar or bleach for disinfection, and baking soda for odors. Pick a sunny day for quick drying.
Move the bin to an open area. Rinse it thoroughly with your hose to remove loose debris. Now, mix hot water with your cleaning agent in a bucket. Put on your gloves, dip the brush, and scrub the entire interior and exterior, paying extra attention to the bottom and lid where grime builds up. Rinse completely until the water runs clear.
Next, disinfect. For a bleach solution, mix 1 cup of household bleach with 1 gallon of water. Alternatively, use undiluted white vinegar. Apply the solution to all interior surfaces, let it sit for about 10 minutes, then rinse well. This kills germs and bacteria.
To tackle lingering smells, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda on the bottom of the clean, dry bin. For maintenance, line your bin with bags, avoid putting liquids directly inside, and give it a quick rinse after emptying. A regular deep clean every few months will keep your outdoor space fresher and more sanitary.