Dealing with smelly garbage cans can be an unpleasant chore. However, there are several effective ways to help control odors and keep your outdoor trash receptacles fresh. With a little effort, you can minimize unwanted smells from your garbage cans.
Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is a simple, inexpensive way to help absorb and neutralize foul garbage odors. Sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda across the bottom of the can before placing in a new bag. You can also put baking soda directly into the bag before tying it closed and tossing it in the bin. The baking soda will help soak up smells and moisture. Reapply fresh baking soda each time you put in a new trash bag.
Try Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is very porous and absorbs odor molecules. Place a charcoal-filled mesh bag on top of your garbage can’s contents. You can also put chunks of charcoal in an old sock and tie it closed before nestling it down into the trash bag. The charcoal will work to trap and filter out unpleasant smells from the garbage. Replace the charcoal regularly to keep it fresh.
Use Coffee Grounds
Used coffee grounds can be repurposed to help eliminate unpleasant garbage can odors. Simply sprinkle wet coffee grounds in the bottom of the empty can before putting in a new bag. You can also put some grounds directly into the bag. As the grounds dry out, they will continue absorbing and masking nasty smells. Replace with fresh grounds each time you switch out the trash bag.
Rinse with Vinegar
White vinegar is a deodorizing wonder. Its acidic nature helps kill bacteria that cause smells. Periodically rinse out your garbage can with a vinegar and water solution. Use a 1:1 ratio of vinegar to water. Slosh the solution around the can walls, lid and bottom. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing clean with your garden hose. This will freshen up even the foulest trash bin.
Freeze Smelly Items
Freezing smelly discarded food scraps like fish, meat and egg-related items can help reduce odors. Place the offending item into a plastic bag, squeeze out excess air and toss it in the freezer until garbage day. This prevents the item from smelling up the indoor kitchen trash as well as the outdoor garbage can. The freezing temperatures stop smells and bacteria growth.
Use Odor Absorbing Gels
There are specially designed gels that work to absorb garbage odors. Look for them near trash bags at home improvement stores. Simply place a gel packet on top of the trash inside your garbage can. You can also find gel “pucks” that adhere to the bottom of a garbage can lid via a peel-and-stick adhesive. Replace them once a month.
Sprinkle on Cat Litter
The clay in fresh cat litter acts as an absorbent for smelly garbage juices. Place a thin layer in the bottom of an empty trash can. You can also put some directly into the bag with the waste. The cat litter clumps together and traps odors. Remember to change it out frequently.
Use Lemon or Citrus Peels
The pleasant citrusy smell of lemons can help mask unpleasant garbage odors. Toss whole lemon or orange peels into your garbage can or bag. You can also rub the peels around the inside of the trash can to coat it with the fruity fragrance. The peels will dry out over time while continuing to provide a sweet scent.
Line the Can
Putting a liner inside your garbage pail can help block smells. You can use a simple plastic trash bag as a liner by placing the bag in the empty can before putting in your regular trash bag. Or look for scented liners infused with pleasant fragrances like lemon or lavender. Change out the liners each time you replace the actual garbage bag.
Use Bleach
Plain bleach is highly effective at killing germs and controlling odors. About once a month, spray down the inside of metal or plastic garbage cans with a bleach-water solution. Use 1 part bleach to 10 parts water. Let the bleach solution sit for a few minutes before rinsing clean and allowing to fully dry. This disinfecting process helps deodorize the garbage receptacle.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my outdoor garbage can?
Ideally, you should give your garbage can a thorough cleaning once a month. Quick rinses or scrub downs every couple of weeks can also help. Frequent cleaning will prevent buildup and smells.
Where should I store my outdoor garbage cans?
Try to store your garbage cans in an area protected from direct sun and rain, such as under an overhang or garage sidewall. This will help prevent excess moisture and subsequent smells.
What is the best deodorizer for smelly garbage cans?
Baking soda, activated charcoal, and citrus peels make excellent natural deodorizers. For stronger odor elimination, odor absorbing gels and bleach solutions work very well.
How can I stop my garbage from smelling without chemicals?
Sprinkle in baking soda, coffee grounds or cat litter regularly. Freeze smelly items before tossing them in the trash. Use fragrant lemon, orange or citrus peels. Keep the can clean and dry. Store trash bags out of heat and sun.
Why does my garbage can smell even with a new bag?
Smells can cling to the walls of the garbage can itself. Be sure to occasionally clean and disinfect the actual can, not just replace the bag. Use a liner and deodorizers to keep the pail fresh.
What can I put in my outdoor trash can to deter animals?
Sprinkle cayenne pepper or chili powder around and inside the can. Ammonia-soaked rags also help repel animals. Secure the lid tightly. Use bungee cords to keep pests out. Place mothballs around the openings.
Conclusion
Unpleasant smells coming from outdoor garbage cans can be annoying and off-putting. However, there are many effective and affordable remedies available. Absorbent materials like baking soda, charcoal, coffee grounds and cat litter can help soak up odors. Natural deodorizers like citrus peels add pleasant scents. Regular cleaning, disinfecting and deodorizing keeps garbage cans fresher for longer. With a little effort, it is possible to minimize unpleasant smells from your outdoor garbage receptacles. Consistent maintenance and proper storage goes a long way towards keeping garbage cans clean and pleasant smelling.