It's frustrating when your white plastic outdoor trash can gets those ugly, stubborn stains, isn't it? Don't worry, it's a common problem and usually fixable with items you already have at home. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to get it looking fresh again.
First, give the can a good rinse with a garden hose to remove loose dirt. For general grime and mild stains, create a cleaning solution with warm water and a few squirts of dish soap. Scrub the entire can, inside and out, using a long-handled brush or a sponge. Rinse thoroughly.
For tougher stains like mildew, algae, or dark streaks, a bleach solution is very effective. Mix one part household bleach with four parts water in a bucket. Always wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area. Apply the solution with a brush, let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then rinse it off completely. The bleach will disinfect and remove most organic stains.
If you prefer a non-bleach alternative, make a paste of baking soda and water or use undiluted white vinegar. Apply the paste or vinegar to the stained areas, let it sit for 15-20 minutes, and then scrub and rinse. Baking soda is a gentle abrasive, while vinegar helps break down mineral deposits and grease.
For set-in rust stains, a paste of lemon juice and salt or a commercial rust remover can work wonders. Apply, let it sit, then scrub and rinse.
Once clean, let the trash can dry completely in the sun before putting a new bag in. To prevent future stains, try giving it a quick rinse every time you take out the full bag. With these easy methods, your white trash can will look nearly new again in no time.