Your 13-gallon trash can is a daily workhorse in your home, handling everything from kitchen scraps to household waste. But over time, food spills and general wear can take a toll on its appearance and smell. With regular cleaning and maintenance, you can keep your 13-gallon trash can looking fresh and odor-free. Here’s how to do it right!
Step 1: Empty and Disassemble Your Trash Can
Before you start cleaning, make sure your trash can is completely empty. Remove the trash bag and any removable parts, such as lids or inner bins.
●Take Out the Bag: Avoid spillage by carefully removing the trash bag and any residual trash.
●Disassemble Removable Parts: If your trash can has a lid or foot pedal mechanism, check if it can be removed easily for thorough cleaning.
●Pro Tip: Always check the manufacturer's instructions for disassembly to prevent damage to any parts.
Step 2: Rinse with Warm Water and Soap
The first step in cleaning your trash can is a basic wash to remove surface dirt, grease, and food particles.
●Fill with Warm Water: Partially fill the trash can with warm water to loosen any grime.
●Add a Mild Dish Soap: Use a gentle, non-abrasive dish soap to avoid scratching the surface, especially for stainless steel or plastic cans.
●Scrub Gently: Use a soft sponge or cloth to scrub both the inside and outside of the can. For stubborn stains, a plastic bristle brush can help.
●Pro Tip: Avoid using abrasive materials like steel wool, which can scratch and damage your trash can’s finish.
Step 3: Tackle Stubborn Odors with Baking Soda or Vinegar
Even with regular washing, odors can linger. Baking soda and vinegar are natural deodorizers that help neutralize unpleasant smells without chemicals.
●Baking Soda Solution: Sprinkle baking soda around the interior of the can and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
●Vinegar Rinse: For extra odor-fighting power, rinse with a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water. Let it sit for a few minutes to absorb odors, then rinse again.
●Pro Tip: For persistent smells, leave a small dish of baking soda or activated charcoal at the bottom of the can when it’s in use. These absorbents can help keep odors under control.
Step 4: Dry Thoroughly
After rinsing, it’s crucial to dry your trash can thoroughly to prevent water spots and mold growth.
●Wipe with a Microfiber Cloth: Use a soft microfiber cloth to dry the can, focusing on corners and edges where water can collect.
●Air Dry: Leave the can open and allow it to air dry for 15-30 minutes to ensure all moisture is gone.
●Pro Tip: Drying your trash can completely helps prevent rust and mold, especially for stainless steel and plastic models.
Step 5: Regular Maintenance to Keep It Fresh
Keeping your trash can clean doesn’t stop at a deep clean—simple regular maintenance goes a long way.
●Weekly Wipe-Down: Give the trash can a quick wipe with a disinfecting wipe each week, especially around the lid and foot pedal.
●Bag Fit Check: Make sure your trash bags fit properly to avoid spills and stains inside the can.
●Pro Tip: For added freshness, a few drops of essential oils on a cotton ball placed inside the can can provide a pleasant scent.
With these simple cleaning and maintenance steps, your 13-gallon trash can will stay as good as new, free of stains and odors. Whether it’s a stainless steel model or durable plastic, regular care will extend its life and keep your kitchen, bathroom, or office space fresh.
Looking for a quality 13-gallon trash can that’s easy to maintain? Explore BinMax’s range and find the perfect fit for your home today!