How to Clean Outdoor Garbage Cans Naturally

Cleaning outdoor garbage cans naturally is an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to keep them fresh, clean, and free from unpleasant odors. Here's a simple guide to help you do just that:

Materials Needed:

1. Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate)

2. White vinegar

3. Dishwashing soap or mild detergent

4. Scrub brush

5. Large bucket

6. Warm water

7. Newspaper or old towel

8. Hose

Instructions:

1. Remove Trash: Start by emptying the garbage cans and removing any loose debris or trash.

2. Rinse the Cans: Hose down the garbage cans both inside and outside to remove any surface dirt and grime.

3. Create the Cleaning Solution: In the bucket, mix equal parts baking soda and white vinegar. Be careful as the mixture may produce a fizzing reaction due to the combination of the two substances. Let the fizzing subside.

4. Add Dish Soap: Add a small amount of dishwashing soap or mild detergent to the mixture and stir until well combined.

5. Scrub the Garbage Cans: Dip the scrub brush into the cleaning solution and scrub the inside and outside of the garbage cans thoroughly, paying special attention to any particularly dirty or stained areas.

6. Let it Sit: Allow the cleaning solution to sit in the garbage cans for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours. This will allow the baking soda and vinegar to work their magic and break down stubborn dirt and grime.

7. Scrub Again: After letting the solution sit, give the garbage cans another thorough scrub with the brush to ensure all the dirt has been removed.

8. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the garbage cans thoroughly with a hose until all traces of the cleaning solution have been removed. Make sure to rinse both inside and outside.

9. Neutralize Odors: If there are lingering odors, you can sprinkle some additional baking soda inside the garbage cans and leave it there overnight. The baking soda will help absorb and neutralize any unpleasant smells.

10. Dry the Garbage Cans: Wipe down the garbage cans with a newspaper or old towel to dry them thoroughly. This will help prevent rust from forming on the cans.

11. Freshen Up: To add an extra touch of freshness, you can place a dryer sheet or a handful of baking soda inside the garbage cans after they're dry. This will help keep them smelling fresh until the next time they need to be emptied.

By following these steps, you can clean your outdoor garbage cans naturally, effectively removing dirt, grime, and odors without the use of harsh chemicals. Remember to clean the garbage cans regularly to keep them in good condition and prevent unpleasant smells from accumulating.