Hey there, clean-freaks! Are you tired of stinky, filthy garbage cans that are a sight for sore eyes? Well, you’ve come to the right place when it comes to cleaning trash cans!

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the wonderful world of cleaning trash cans. That’s right, folks! Today, we’re going to roll up our sleeves and learn the ins and outs of how to clean outdoor garbage cans and keep them clean.

Why Cleaning Trash Cans is a Must

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of cleaning trash cans (that’s one, folks!), let’s take a moment to consider why it’s so important.

First and foremost, dirty garbage cans can attract all sorts of unwanted critters, from rodents to insects, and we don’t want those pesky invaders anywhere near our homes, do we?

Moreover, unclean garbage cans can produce unpleasant odors that can waft into your home and create a less-than-ideal living environment.

Additionally, regularly cleaning trash cans can extend the life of your outdoor bins, saving you money in the long run.

So, let’s get started with our comprehensive guide to cleaning outdoor garbage cans and keeping them clean!

The Supplies You’ll Need for Cleaning Trash Cans

To start the process of cleaning trash cans (yep, that’s three!), you’ll need a few supplies handy. Here’s a checklist of the items you’ll need:

Rubber gloves
A garden hose or access to an outdoor water source
Dish soap or a biodegradable cleaner
A scrub brush with a long handle
A bucket or large container
Microfiber cloths or paper towels
A trash bag or tarp to catch debris

Now that you’ve gathered your supplies, let’s get to work on those dirty bins!

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Cleaning Trash Cans – Step by Step Guide

The moment we’ve all been waiting for – it’s time to dive into cleaning trash cans.

Follow these steps for spotless, odor-free bins:

Step 1: Empty and relocate your garbage cans

First things first, ensure that your outdoor garbage cans are completely empty. Then, relocate them to a suitable cleaning spot, preferably on grass or gravel to minimize water runoff and any potential mess.

Step 2: Rinse your garbage cans

Next, use your garden hose to rinse the inside and outside of your garbage cans, removing any loose dirt and debris.

Step 3: Prepare your cleaning solution

In a bucket or large container, mix warm water with dish soap or a biodegradable cleaner to create your cleaning solution. A few squirts of soap should do the trick!

Step 4: Get scrubbing!

Dip your long-handled scrub brush into the cleaning solution and start scrubbing the inside and outside of your garbage cans.

Use circular motions and apply a bit of elbow grease to tackle stubborn dirt and stains.

Step 5: Rinse and dry

After you’ve thoroughly scrubbed your bins, it’s time to rinse away the soapy residue with your garden hose. Give them a good once-over, ensuring you’ve removed all the soap.

To finish up, use your microfiber cloths or paper towels to dry the inside and outside of your garbage cans.

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Congratulations! You’ve just completed the process of cleaning trash cans (and that makes five!) like a pro.

But don’t stop there – it’s time to learn how to keep those outdoor bins clean and fresh.

Tips for Keeping Your Garbage Cans Clean

Now that we’ve mastered the art of cleaning trash cans, let’s discuss some tips and tricks for keeping your outdoor bins clean for longer:

Tip 1: Use trash bags or liners

Using trash bags or liners in your garbage cans can significantly reduce the amount of dirt and debris that comes into contact with the inside of your bins. Be sure to change the bags regularly to prevent any overflow or leaks.

Tip 2: Secure the lids

Keeping the lids of your garbage cans securely closed not only helps prevent any unpleasant odors from escaping but also keeps pesky critters away from your bins.

Consider investing in garbage cans with locking lids or use bungee cords to keep the lids in place.

Tip 3: Store your garbage cans in a shaded area

Storing your garbage cans in a shaded area can help slow down the growth of odor-causing bacteria. Additionally, it can prevent direct sunlight from breaking down the plastic material of your bins, prolonging their lifespan.

Tip 4: Perform regular spot cleaning

In between deep cleaning trash cans (seven, and we’re not done yet!), be sure to give your bins a quick spot clean. Use disinfectant wipes or a cloth and a mild cleaner to wipe down the lids and handles, as well as any visible dirt on the outside of the cans.

Tip 5: Deodorize your bins

Sprinkle some baking soda into the bottom of your garbage cans to help neutralize odors. Alternatively, you can use odor-absorbing products specifically designed for trash cans, such as charcoal pouches or gel beads.

Tip 6: Separate your waste

Divide your waste into separate bins for general trash, recycling, and composting. This will help minimize odors and make cleaning trash cans (eight, in case you’re keeping count) even easier.

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Create a Cleaning Schedule

To ensure that you’re consistently cleaning trash cans (nine – almost there!), it’s a good idea to establish a regular cleaning schedule.

Depending on the size of your household and the amount of waste you generate, you may need to clean your outdoor garbage cans every few weeks, monthly, or every couple of months.

Choose a cleaning frequency that works best for you and stick to it. Set reminders on your phone or calendar to help you stay on track.

And there you have it! A comprehensive guide to cleaning trash cans and keeping them clean. By following these tips and maintaining a regular cleaning schedule, you’ll be well on your way to fresh, spotless, and odor-free outdoor garbage cans.

Remember, consistently cleaning trash cans not only keeps your home environment more pleasant but also helps prevent unwanted critters and contributes to a cleaner, healthier world.

So grab those gloves, rev up that scrub brush, and let’s get to work on those garbage cans!

How to Clean the Outside of a Garbage Can

To maintain a spick and span appearance, it’s essential to give your outdoor garbage cans a thorough cleaning inside and out. Follow these easy steps:

Gather your supplies: a garden hose, mild dish soap or cleaner, a scrub brush, and a cloth or sponge.
Empty your garbage can and move it to a suitable cleaning area.
Rinse the exterior of the can with your garden hose.
Apply a small amount of soap or cleaner to your cloth or sponge, then scrub the exterior of the can, focusing on any dirt or grime.
Rinse the soap off thoroughly with the garden hose.
Allow the garbage can to air dry before replacing the trash bag.

How to Clean a Garbage Can with Vinegar

Vinegar is an excellent eco-friendly alternative for cleaning your garbage cans. Here’s how to use it effectively:

Empty your garbage can and move it to an appropriate cleaning area.
Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a bucket.
Dip a scrub brush, cloth, or sponge into the vinegar solution and scrub the interior and exterior surfaces of the garbage can.
Let the vinegar solution sit for 10-15 minutes to help disinfect the can.
Rinse the garbage can with a garden hose, making sure to remove all traces of vinegar.
Allow the can to air dry completely.

How to Clean an Indoor Garbage Can

Indoor garbage cans need love too! Follow these steps to keep your indoor bins clean:

Empty your garbage can and take it to an appropriate cleaning area, such as a bathtub or sink.
Fill the can with warm, soapy water and let it soak for a few minutes.
Use a scrub brush, cloth, or sponge to clean the interior and exterior surfaces of the can.
Drain the soapy water and rinse the can thoroughly with warm water.
Dry the can with a towel or let it air dry before returning it to its usual spot.

How to Clean a Garbage Can with Bleach

For a thorough, deep clean, use bleach to disinfect and sanitize your garbage cans. Here’s how:

Empty your garbage can and move it to a suitable cleaning area.
Mix ½ cup of bleach with a gallon of warm water in a bucket.
Put on protective gloves and dip a scrub brush, cloth, or sponge into the bleach solution.
Scrub the interior and exterior surfaces of the garbage can with the bleach solution.
Let the solution sit for 5-10 minutes to disinfect the can.
Rinse the can thoroughly with a garden hose or warm water, making sure to remove all bleach residue.
Allow the can to air dry completely.

How to Remove Smell from Outdoor Garbage Can

Keep unpleasant odors at bay with these simple tips:

Regularly clean and disinfect your garbage can using the methods outlined above.
Sprinkle baking soda in the bottom of your garbage can to neutralize odors.
Use trash bags with odor-blocking technology or add a few drops of essential oil to the inside of the bag for a fresher scent.
Store your garbage cans in a shaded, well-ventilated area to slow the growth of odor-causing bacteria.
Place a few charcoal briquettes or a charcoal odor-absorbing pouch in the bottom of the can to help remove lingering smells.
Separate waste into different bins for general trash, recycling, and composting to reduce the buildup of odor-causing materials.
Keep the lid of your garbage can tightly closed to prevent the smell from spreading.

A clean garbage can is not only more pleasant to look at and use, but it also keeps unpleasant smells and unwelcome critters at bay.

By following the guidelines outlined in this guide, you can keep your indoor and outdoor garbage cans clean, sanitized, and odor-free using various methods like vinegar, bleach, and some helpful odor-reducing tips.

With a little regular maintenance, your garbage cans will be the envy of the neighborhood!

More Tips and Tricks for Cleaner, Fresher Garbage Cans

You’ve already learned the ins and outs of cleaning your garbage cans, but why stop there? In this follow-up guide, we’ll provide you with additional tips and tricks to make sure your bins stay fresher and cleaner for longer.

Say goodbye to stinky, dirty garbage cans for good!

Keep Your Garbage Can Lid Clean and Secure

A clean and well-fitted lid can help keep odors contained and critters at bay. Follow these steps to maintain a clean garbage can lid:

When cleaning your garbage can, don’t forget to give the lid a thorough scrub with your preferred cleaning solution.
Dry the lid completely before replacing it on the can.
Ensure the lid fits securely and forms a tight seal to prevent odors from escaping.
If your lid is damaged or loose, consider replacing it with a new one or using bungee cords to keep it in place.

Regularly Inspect and Repair Your Garbage Cans

Prolong the life of your garbage cans and keep them functioning optimally by regularly inspecting and repairing them:

Check your cans for cracks, holes, or other signs of wear and tear. These could allow leaks and provide an entry point for pests.
If you find damage, patch it up using waterproof tape or sealant.
Tighten any loose handles or wheels to ensure the cans are easy to maneuver.
Replace any damaged or worn-out parts to keep your cans in tip-top shape.

Invest in Quality Garbage Bags

High-quality garbage bags can make all the difference in keeping your garbage cans cleaner:

Opt for bags with a suitable thickness to minimize the risk of punctures and leaks.
Choose bags with built-in odor-blocking technology or drawstring closures for added convenience.
Ensure the bags are the right size for your cans, so they fit snugly and hold trash securely.

Establish a Regular Garbage Can Maintenance Routine

Consistency is key when it comes to maintaining clean garbage cans. Establish a regular routine to keep your cans in pristine condition:

Set a reminder on your phone or calendar to clean your indoor and outdoor garbage cans at regular intervals, depending on your household’s needs.
Incorporate quick spot cleaning into your weekly chores, such as wiping down the lids and handles with disinfectant wipes or a mild cleaner.
Keep track of your garbage can maintenance tasks on a cleaning calendar or chore chart to ensure nothing gets overlooked.

Armed with these additional tips and tricks, you’re now well-equipped to keep your garbage cans cleaner and fresher for longer. By dedicating a little time and effort to regular maintenance, you can prevent unpleasant odors, deter critters, and make your household a more pleasant, cleaner environment.

Happy cleaning!

xoxo, Andrea Jean