How to Clean and Deodorize a Can

• Before you dive into the cleaning process, gather these supplies to get the job done efficiently:

  • Rubber gloves
  • Garden hose or bathtub
  • All-purpose cleaner or disinfectant spray
  • Baking soda (optional)
  • Sponge, microfiber towel, or a bristled scrub brush with a long handle
  • Paper towels or an old towel
  "Eliminate odors at the source by mastering the art of trash can cleaning."

Trash Can Cleaning in 5 Simple Steps

• Cleaning a smelly trash can isn’t as daunting as it seems. Follow these five simple steps, and your trash can will be spotless—and odor-free—in no time.

• • Step 1: Empty the Trash Can
    Before cleaning, ensure the trash can is completely empty. Put on your gloves, take out the trash, and remove any lingering food particles or debris inside.
  • Step 2: Rinse It Out
    Use a garden hose to rinse the trash can outdoors. If that’s not an option, bring it into the bathroom and rinse it in the tub.
  • Step 3: Spray and Deodorize
    After rinsing, spray the inside and outside of the can with your preferred disinfectant or all-purpose cleaner. For extra freshness, sprinkle about half a cup of baking soda inside. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes.
  • Step 4: Scrub Thoroughly
    Use a sponge, microfiber towel, or bristled brush to scrub the trash can, including the lid and exterior.
  • Step 5: Rinse and Dry
    Once scrubbed, rinse the can again thoroughly. Dry it off with paper towels or an old towel, ensuring it's completely dry before inserting a new trash bag to prevent mold growth.
  

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  DrawstringForceFlex MaxStrength XL Kitchen Trash Bags with Fresh Clean Scent

Preventing Trash Can Odors

• Keeping odors at bay between deep cleans is simple with these easy habits:

• • Use Odor-Protecting Trash Bags
    Invest in trash bags that fight odors, such as Glad’s Kitchen ForceFlex MaxStrength™ Bags Gain Original Scent, ForceFlex MaxStrength™ with Clorox® Bags Lemon Fresh Bleach Scent or try scented kitchen trash bags  to eliminate garbage and trash smells.
  • Wipe It Out Regularly
    Make it a habit to do a quick wipe-down every time you change the trash bag. Spray disinfectant inside and give it a quick wipe before inserting a new bag.
  • Deodorize Between Cleanings
    Sprinkle a little baking soda in the bottom of your trash can to neutralize odors. Other effective options include dryer sheets or cat litter.

How to Prevent Mold in Your Trash Can

• A dirty trash can might become a breeding ground for mold, potentially leading to allergic reactions and respiratory issues. Follow these tips to keep mold at bay:

• • Keep Liquids Out
    Mold thrives in damp, humid conditions, so to keep it from growing in your trash can, it's essential to prevent leaks. A strong, reliable trash bag — like Kitchen ForceFlex MaxStrength™ Bags Gain Original Scent — with a 2X stronger top* and a reinforced bottom—helps stop pesky liquids from seeping in and creating the perfect environment for mold. You can also put any liquids or runny food products in a separate, smaller bag within your trash bag for an extra layer of mold protection.
  • Don’t Miss Trash Day
    Take out the trash regularly to minimize the chance of mold growth. Set reminders to avoid missing collection days, and never overstuff the can, as this can cause leaks.
  • Use Newspapers to Absorb Moisture
    Line the bottom of your trash can with old newspapers to soak up excess moisture and help control odors.

How to Keep Outdoor Garbage Cans Smelling Fresh

• Outdoor garbage cans can be just as smelly—if not worse—than indoor ones. Be sure to use heavy duty bags and follow these steps to minimize odors:

• 1. Seal Trash Bags Properly: Ensure all bags are tightly sealed to prevent spills and odors.
  2. Avoid Loose Trash: Always bag small waste items instead of tossing them directly into the bin.
  3. Rinse Regularly: After collection day, rinse the bin with a high-pressure hose and mild dish soap. Let it dry completely in the sun.
  4. Drill Drainage Holes: Adding small holes to the bottom of outdoor bins allows rainwater to drain out naturally, preventing standing water.
  5. Deodorize with Baking Soda or Fresh Step® Cat Litter: Sprinkle some in the bottom of the bin to absorb odors and moisture.

• With these tips, your trash cans—both indoor and outdoor—will stay fresh, clean, and odor-free!

• ^{* vs. Glad® 13 gal ForceFlex bag}