That's a common and messy problem in city living! Pooled liquid at the bottom of the bin leads to bad odors, stains, and makes cleaning a nightmare. Here are some natural, practical solutions I've found work really well.
First, the liner is your best friend. Don't just use one flimsy bag. Try the double-bagging method: place a strong, leak-proof bag inside your bin, and then put your regular trash bag inside that. The inner bag gets the wear, while the outer acts as a crucial backup barrier. For even better protection, look for trash bags specifically labeled "leak-proof" or "extra strength."
What you put *under* the bag matters too. Before placing your liner, create a simple absorbent layer at the very bottom. You can use a handful of cat litter, a layer of old newspaper or paper towels, or even a sprinkle of baking soda. These materials will soak up any accidental leaks or condensation, preventing a pool from forming. Baking soda has the bonus of neutralizing odors.
If you frequently dispose of wet waste like food scraps, consider using absorbent pads or even a dedicated small compost bin for those items. This keeps the bulk of the liquid out of your main trash stream. For kitchen bins, empty drink cans and bottles completely, and try to drain leftover liquids from food containers before tossing them.
Finally, don't forget maintenance. Empty your bin regularly before it gets overly full and heavy. When you take out the full bag, give the empty bin a quick wipe-down with a disinfectant or a vinegar-water solution. Let it air dry completely before putting in a new liner. This breaks the cycle of moisture and bacteria buildup.
A little prevention goes a long way. Using a good liner system, adding an absorbent base, and being mindful of what goes in will keep your trash bin drier, cleaner, and much more pleasant.