Having a smelly outdoor garbage can is a common problem that many homeowners face. Not only is the odor unpleasant, but it can also attract unwanted pests and animals. Thankfully, there are several effective methods you can use to eliminate odors and keep your outdoor trash bin smelling fresh.
Why Outdoor Garbage Cans Smell
There are a few key reasons why outdoor garbage cans tend to take on unpleasant odors:
- Food scraps – Rotting food waste emits foul odors as it decomposes. Meat, dairy products, and produce scraps are especially prone to causing smells.
- Yard waste – Grass clippings, leaves, twigs, and other yard debris can also create odors as they break down. Wet yard waste is particularly smelly.
- Absorbent materials – Things like paper, cardboard, and fabric absorb odors easily. They hold onto smells from food, yard waste, and other smelly items in your garbage.
- Trapped moisture – Bins that don’t drain well allow liquid to pool at the bottom. This moist environment helps odors thrive.
- Hot weather – Heat accelerates the decomposition process, causing smells to be more potent.
Tips to Remove Odors from an Outdoor Garbage Can
Here are some simple yet effective methods to tackle garbage can odors:
1. Sprinkle Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural deodorizer. Its odor-neutralizing abilities make it ideal for absorbing smells.
- Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda into the bottom of the empty garbage can.
- Let it sit overnight so the baking soda can absorb any lingering odors.
- The next day, shake out any excess.
2. Use Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal has excellent absorptive properties. It’s great for trapping foul smells.
- Place a few pieces of activated charcoal in an old pair of pantyhose or a sock. Tie a knot to secure.
- Lay the charcoal sachet on top of the waste in your bin.
- Replace the charcoal monthly for maximum effectiveness.
3. Clean with Vinegar
White vinegar is a powerful deodorizing agent. Its high acidity helps kill bacteria that cause odors.
- Combine 1 part vinegar with 3 parts water in a spray bottle.
- After emptying the garbage can, spray the vinegar solution on all interior surfaces.
- Let the vinegar sit for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly with the hose.
4. Use Scent Booster Packs
Scent booster packs are infused with pleasant fragrances to mask unpleasant smells.
- Look for packs made with natural ingredients like essential oils, plant extracts, or baking soda.
- Place 2-3 packs on top of the waste in your bin. Replace them each time you empty the can.
5. Line the Bin
Lining your garbage can prevents waste from contacting the walls, minimizing odors.
- Use a heavy-duty plastic garbage bag or a reusable silicone bucket liner.
- Make sure the liner covers the entire inner surface of the bin.
- Replace or wash bag/liner regularly.
6. Rinse with Garden Hose
Giving your garbage can a rinse keeps odor-causing residue from building up.
- After emptying waste, spray the inside of the can with a garden hose.
- Use a scrub brush to dislodge stuck-on gunk if needed.
- Let the can air dry completely before replacing the bag.
7. Sprinkle Cat Litter
The clay in cat litter is an absorbent material perfect for sniffing out smells.
- Pour a 1⁄2 inch layer of unused, unscented clay cat litter in the bottom of the empty can.
- Let it sit for 12-24 hours to absorb lingering odors before disposal.
- Replace the litter monthly or whenever you notice an odor.
8. Use Odor-Blocking Garbage Bags
Specialized garbage bags are designed with odor-stopping properties.
- Look for bags made with activated carbon, which traps smells.
- Or choose bags infused with baking soda or fragrance.
- Double bagging can also help contain odors.
9. Freeze Smelly Waste
Freezing smelly items like meat scraps and fish bones helps prevent odors.
- Wrap the waste tightly in newspaper or paper towels.
- Place in a sealed plastic bag and toss in the freezer until garbage day.
- The cold temperature prevents it from decomposing and emitting smells.
10. Take Out Trash Frequently
More frequent waste removal limits odor build-up.
- During hot weather, take out garbage 1-2 times per week.
- If odor is still an issue, removing waste every 2-3 days may be needed.
- Curbside composting can also reduce food waste smells.
11. Place Trash Can in Shade
Keeping your garbage bin out of the sun’s heat minimizes odors.
- Position the can in a shady spot instead of direct sunlight.
- North or east-facing locations are ideal to limit intense afternoon sun.
- Attach a bin lid to provide additional shade.
12. Sprinkle on Borax
The antibacterial properties of borax make it helpful for eliminating smells.
- Sprinkle a thin layer of borax powder in the bottom of an empty garbage can.
- Let it sit for a few hours before adding a new bag.
- Rinse occasionally to prevent powder buildup.
13. Add Lime Peels
Citrus peels naturally deter odors with their fresh, fruity aroma.
- Toss a few lime or lemon peels in the bottom of the empty garbage can.
- Replace peels each time you empty the trash.
- For maximum scent, poke holes in the peels before placing in bin.
14. Absorb with Coffee Grounds
Used coffee grounds can soak up foul garbage can odors.
- Place 1-2 handfuls of damp coffee grounds in an old sock.
- Nestle the sock filled with grounds in the bottom of the empty bin.
- Replace grounds weekly to keep absorbing smells.
Troubleshooting Persistent Odors
If smells persist despite these tips, try these extra troubleshooting steps:
- Clean garbage can with bleach – Mix 1 tbsp bleach with 1 gallon water. Scrub inside of bin with solution. Rinse thoroughly.
- Leave bin lid open – Allow bin to air out for a few hours between uses to let smells dissipate.
- Switch garbage bags – Certain bag brands/types may be more effective for containing odors.
- Double bag – Place smaller trash bags inside a larger outdoor bag. Helps seal in smells.
- Replace garbage can – Older bins with cracks/damage can harbor stubborn odors. Consider a new odor-proof container.
- Mask smell – Position bin upwind from gathering areas. Place pleasant-smelling plants nearby.
- Seal food waste – Use small bags or containers with tight lids to pack food scraps. Prevent leaks.
- Take out recycling – Remove redeemable recyclables quickly to limit food residue buildup.
- Remove can lid – Eliminate lid if moisture buildup inside seems to worsen smell.
With some simple maintenance and odor removal tactics, your outdoor garbage bin can maintain a fresh scent. Consistently using these smell prevention methods will help minimize unpleasant stenches in and around your garbage can.
Frequently Asked Questions About Removing Odors from Outdoor Garbage Cans
How often should I clean my outdoor garbage can?
- During summer’s warm weather, aim to clean your garbage can at least once a month. Use a disinfecting cleaner or a vinegar/water solution.
What is the best outdoor garbage can for odor control?
- Look for cans with a tight sealing lid, durable plastic/metal construction, and a smooth inner surface that won’t absorb smells. Many models also have antimicrobial properties to inhibit odor.
Where should I store my outdoor garbage can?
- Keep your garbage bin in a sheltered spot, away from direct sunlight and out of main living areas. This limits odor exposure while allowing smells to dissipate.
Can I use an outdoor garbage can indoors?
- Outdoor cans aren’t ideal for indoor use because they are more ventilated. Indoor bins have tighter seals to prevent smells from escaping. An outdoor can indoors is likely to emit unpleasant odors.
What can I put in my garbage can to make it smell better?
- Baking soda, vinegar, citrus peels, activated charcoal, coffee grounds, and scented bags/packs make great odor eliminators for garbage cans. They help absorb and neutralize smells.
How do I get rid of maggots in my outdoor garbage can?
To eliminate maggots: Remove all waste, spray inner can with a bleach or vinegar solution, scrub clean, allow to dry fully. Sprinkle baking soda or borax before replacing bag to prevent future maggot infestations.
Conclusion
A stinky garbage can is never pleasant, but armed with the right techniques, you can successfully remove odors from your outdoor bin. Absorbent, antibacterial, and scent masking products all help tackle tough trash smells. Consistent cleaning, waste removal, and shade will also prevent unwanted stenches. With a little extra effort, your outdoor garbage storage can be odor-free and clean smelling.