Let’s face it, trash cans aren’t known for their pleasant aroma. But that doesn’t mean you have to endure the overwhelming stench every time you’re in its vicinity. Thankfully, there are effective and natural remedies to neutralize those offensive odors, providing much-needed relief for your nose.
In this guide, brought to you by a top-rated cleaning company, we’ll share six powerful fixes that will leave your trash can smelling fresh and clean. Say goodbye to those lingering odors and embrace a more pleasant and inviting environment.
No need for harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances—these solutions are all-natural, making them safe for you and the environment. Get ready to transform your trash can from a stinky offender to an odor-free ally.
Say farewell to nose-wrinkling smells and welcome a breath of fresh air into your home with these expert-approved tips. Let’s dive in and reclaim your olfactory bliss!
Quick deodorizing methods for your trash can
You don’t have to spend much time eliminating bad smells from your trash can. The following methods won’t take you more than five minutes—while the freshness will last for days to come!
Cotton balls with essential oil
Essential oils have many useful properties, odor-absorbing among them. Some essential oils best suited to freshen up your trash can are lavender, cinnamon, eucalyptus, lemon, and citronella.
To try this method, soak a couple of cotton balls with one of the previously mentioned oils and toss them in your garbage bin. You’ll notice how the foul smell of trash will be gone for days. If needed, replace the cotton balls once a week.
Baking soda
Besides being a powerful ally in several cleaning duties, baking soda absorbs odors efficiently.
Sprinkle some baking soda on the bottom of the trash can, but spread it evenly, so it has more surface area to absorb odors.
Note: If you have a metal bin, place the baking soda on a shallow plate first to avoid corroding the metal.
Cat litter
Kitty litter is specially designed to keep strong odors at bay. Although it can be a bit messy to handle (as it’s similar to sand), you can easily pour some into a fabric bag before placing it at the bottom of your trash can. However, if you want to take full advantage of cat litter’s liquid-absorbing capabilities (and don’t mind about the messy part), pour it directly into the bin.
Keep in mind that this works better on small to medium-sized cans, as the cat litter layer must be at least one inch thick.
Deodorizing trash bags
Odor-blocking trash bags are great because they don’t let odors seep into the can—there are even scented ones! Just remember to get sturdy bags to prevent rips and leaks (or anti-rodent ones for your outside garbage bin).
Activated charcoal
Thanks to a specialized chemical and heating process, activated charcoal can absorb odors for a longer period of time than other deodorizers (up to a month). On top of that, charcoal is mostly pure carbon, meaning it is better at trapping smells than most materials.
Just sprinkle a good amount of charcoal on a small deep bowl and place it inside your garbage can. Depending on the odor strength, it can take 15 minutes to 1 day to fully absorb it.
Is the can still smelly? It’s time to clean it!
Did you try the previous tips, but the stench didn’t go away? It may be time for a quick clean to remove the odor once and for all! Take your trash can where you can easily handle (and wash) it. Here’s how to do it:
- Pour warm soapy water into the bin.
- Use a long, medium-bristled brush (like a toilet brush) to sweep and scrub the inside and outside of the can.
- Rinse it with clean water and turn it upside down until it drains.
- Finally, use paper towels to dry the trash can.
Does your house need a thorough cleaning? We can help!
Usually, smells disappear a few minutes after the smelly source is neutralized. However, if your house doesn’t feel fresh, it might need a deep cleaning.
Our skilled team at 4 Senses House Cleaning will use eco-friendly products, so you won’t have to worry about chemical smells at home—you’ll love our signature amenities, including aromatherapy. See our checklist here!
