When it comes to home cleaning, one of the most overlooked items in our homes is the garbage can. These plastic bins help keep things tidy, prevent disgusting smells from wafting through our hallways, and make weekly trash collection possible.
They tend to be last on the list of cleaning priorities when it’s time to get housework done. Cleaning all of your garbage cans on a regular basis is a great way to prevent pest invasions, noxious odors, and will keep your humble abode looking prim and proper. Let’s take a quick look at the steps you’ll need to take.
Items Needed for Cleaning a Garbage Can
Hose with Power Washing Capabilities- Disposable Cleaning Wipes
- Scrubbing Sponges
- Paper Towels
- Dry Towels
- Lysol
- Trash Bags
- Kitty Litter
- Baking Soda
- Vinegar
Cleaning an Indoor Garbage Can
Before you start the cleaning process, it’s important to empty the garbage container entirely. This includes the bag, and any other lining you might be using.
Take the trash can outside, or place it in your bath tub, (depending on where you live) and rinse the container down with a water and vinegar solution or hose with a power washing attachment. Use this initial rinse to get any stains, gunk, or residue that you see.
Once you’re finished, take a spray bottle filled with either home cleaning solution, or water and vinegar and scrub down the can, making sure to get the interior, exterior, bottom, top, and sides.
Now, it’s time to let things dry. You can either leave your garbage can out in the sun, or you can use a clean towel to dry it off.
Finally, line the bottom of the trash can with kitty litter or baking soda. Both of these items are great for absorbing smells, and will help prevent leaks from getting the can sticky and mold from growing out of control.
Now, spray the inside and outside with Lysol or another germ killing substance and grab a clean trash bag. Line the interior and voila! You’re finished!
Cleaning an Outdoor Garbage Can
Cleaning your outdoor garbage can is pretty much the same as the indoor process, but since it’s likely the container outside is used for yard work and things like dog messes, it may require a little additional elbow grease. A little bleach, powdered laundry detergent, and some water can get the job done.
The cleaning process is as simple as that…really! If you want to go the extra mile, invest in a container of disposable cleaning wipes to sit next to every trash bin in your home. If spills or accidents happen, you’ll have quick access to cleaning supplies in no time flat.