Dealing with a stained and smelly plastic outdoor trash can is a common hassle, but it's easier to fix than you might think. The key is regular cleaning to prevent grime buildup. Here’s a simple, effective method you can do with items you probably already have at home.
First, empty the bin completely. Take out the liner bag and any loose debris. If possible, move the can to a sunny, open area like your driveway or yard. This gives you space to work and helps with drying later.
Next, give it a good pre-rinse with a garden hose to wash away loose dirt. Now, for the main cleaning, you have a few great options. A classic and natural cleaner is a mixture of baking soda and white vinegar. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda inside the bin, then slowly pour in about a cup of white vinegar. It will fizz up, helping to break down stains and neutralize odors. Let this mixture sit for 15-30 minutes.
For tougher stains or disinfecting, a diluted bleach solution works wonders. Mix one part household bleach with nine parts water. Always wear gloves and ensure good ventilation. Pour or spray the solution inside, coating all surfaces, and let it sit for about 10 minutes.
After letting your chosen cleaner sit, it's time to scrub. Use a long-handled brush with stiff bristles or a dedicated toilet brush to scrub the entire interior, paying extra attention to stained areas and the bottom. The abrasive action is crucial for lifting set-in grime.
Once you've scrubbed thoroughly, rinse the can extremely well with your hose until all cleaning residue is gone. Tip the bin to drain all the water out. Finally, let it air dry completely in the sun before putting in a new bag. The sun's rays are a great natural disinfectant and deodorizer.
To keep it fresh longer, sprinkle a little baking soda in the bottom of the clean, dry can before inserting a new bag. Cleaning your bin every 1-2 months will prevent stains and odors from becoming a major problem again.