Having a stinky trash can is a common problem that most people have likely dealt with at some point. The smell can be unpleasant and make an area of your home or office smell bad. Thankfully, there are some simple solutions for neutralizing trash can odors.
Page Contents
Why Trash Cans Smell
Trash cans smell for a few key reasons:
- Food scraps and waste rotting and decomposing
- Dirty or wet trash accumulating bacteria
- Odors from items like chemicals, pet waste, etc. getting trapped in the can
As organic matter like food scraps, plant materials, and other waste breaks down, it releases smelly gases. Bacteria thrive on wet and dirty trash too, producing more bad odors. And smelly items like chemicals, pet poop, and so on contribute their own odors when sitting in a contained space like a trash can.
Tips to Neutralize Trash Can Odors
Here are some simple, natural ways to fight trash can odors:
1. Baking Soda
Baking soda is highly effective at absorbing odors. Simply sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda across the bottom of the empty trash can. You can also mix in some essential oils like lemon, lavender, or pine to add a fresh scent.
2. Vinegar
The acidic properties of vinegar work to counteract foul odors. Either white vinegar or apple cider vinegar will work. Spray or wipe down the inside of the trash can with undiluted vinegar. For tougher odors, you can also pour some vinegar in the bottom of the can and let it sit for several hours before wiping dry.
3. Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal has absorptive properties that trap odors. Place a few charcoal briquettes or an open bag of activated charcoal in the bottom of the trash can to keep smells at bay.
4. Coffee Grounds
Used coffee grounds can be repurposed to absorb trash can odors before throwing them in the compost. Sprinkle fresh grounds across the bottom of the empty can.
5. Citrus Peels
Citrus peels contain natural oils that help mask unpleasant smells with a fresh, citrusy aroma. Toss a few lemon, lime, orange, or grapefruit peels in the bottom of the trash can.
6. Sodium Bicarbonate
Also known as baking soda, sodium bicarbonate is a mild alkali that can neutralize acidic odors from rotting food and waste. Sprinkle a layer of baking soda across the bottom of the empty trash can.
7. Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal has a porous structure that traps odorous molecules. Place charcoal briquettes or bags of activated charcoal in the trash can to absorb smells.
8. White Vinegar
White vinegar helps counteract foul odors with its acidic properties. Wipe down the inside of the trash can with undiluted white vinegar and let it sit for a few hours before rinsing.
Regular Trash Can Maintenance
Along with using odor neutralizers, it’s also important to practice some basic maintenance habits to keep trash cans fresher for longer:
- Empty the trash frequently, at least 1-2 times per week
- Double bag smelly trash or use scented bags
- Rinse cans with water and baking soda or vinegar solution regularly
- Replace trash bags often
- Clean the can thoroughly with soap and water as needed
- Use trash cans with tight-sealing lids
Conclusion
Unpleasant trash can odors can be neutralized with some simple, natural ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, citrus peels, and activated charcoal. Maintaining cleanliness through regular emptying, cleaning, double bagging, and using odor-blocking lids will also help control smells.
With a little effort, it’s possible to keep trash cans fresher for longer. A clean, odor-free trash bin makes for a more pleasant home or workplace environment.