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When it comes to keeping the house clean, we all sweep the floors, vacuum the carpets, wash the windows, and clean away the dust. Even furnace filters get changed regularly, and the ducts are cleaned out.
However, what about your garbage cans (including the ones in the kitchen and on the driveway)? The one in the kitchen gets emptied into the big bin regularly, and the big bin is emptied by the garbage disposal teams on a weekly basis. But have you ever actually cleaned them?
Garbage cans can be an unseen source of germs and odour-causing bacteria. As we use bags inside them, we don’t really think that they can still be a breeding ground for germs.
Fortunately, there are a few things you can easily do and work into your routine to help prevent and get rid of bacteria and odours.
No one likes to have their garbage pile up, so we empty it on a regular basis. Most of us will wipe down the lid and maybe the sides with a disinfectant wipe or something similar.
What about the inside, though? This is the breeding ground for odour-causing bacteria and other germs. We tend not to look inside, however, unless the bag rips. But even if there is no debris that we can see, bacteria can and will still grow.
A few simple steps when you take the garbage out will help to ensure that smells don’t develop and your garbage is clean inside and out:
Check the bottom to make sure that there is no debris, even if the bag hasn’t been ripped or torn. If the bag was not properly placed, things could fall between it and the bin.
You can use a simple household item in the bottom of the bin to keep it clean in the event of a torn bag, such as cat litter, dryer sheets, and crumpled newspaper. These will soak up liquids that seep out and keep the smell down. You should also remove these items when you clean out the bin.
At least once every two weeks, give the garbage can a good, deep clean with warm water and either a cleaning chemical or a homemade solution, such as vinegar and baking soda.
Make sure the can is 100% empty and dry before placing a new bag. Any dampness can accelerate mould and bacteria growth, and smells can develop in as little as a day or two.
What about the cart, sitting out on your driveway or hidden in the garage until collection day? This, too, is a breeding ground, and should be rinsed out with the hose at least once a week and allowed to air dry before the lid is closed.
Also, check to make sure that there is no debris stuck at the bottom, as this will cause the bin to smell before the next collection day.
When we consider recycling, we automatically think of drinking receptacles such as pop bottles and beer cans.
However, did you know that you can also recycle the cans that pasta sauce or canned fruit comes in? How about the cardboard packaging that surrounds your cat food or microwave meal?
There are many items that we automatically put into the garbage, either because we don’t know we can recycle them or because it’s just easier.
Unfortunately, this creates a composting effect inside your garbage, leading to foul smells and germs. So, by separating these items and rinsing out cans, you can reduce the smell and your carbon footprint all at once.
You can find information about recycling programs in your area online. While it may mean that a few extra blue bags get used, it all helps to reduce smells and protect the environment.
Not everything should go into the garbage, and certain items shouldn’t be stored in the way you think.
Try to avoid putting wet items into the garbage. This will provide fuel to bacteria and promote growth. Where possible, these items should go into the outside cart and be allowed to dry before the lid is closed.
Food items are a great way to start a compost heap in your kitchen. The food breaks down and produces bacteria. So, if you are a keen gardener, you can use a compost bin specifically for food scraps and create your own fertilizer for next season’s garden. If not, then take them to the outside cart as quickly as possible. You can buy compost bags that break down in the landfill. This also helps to improve your carbon footprint.
Try not to overstuff your garbage. The pressure and weight from all the extra items promote and speed up bacteria growth. This occurs more so if the garbage is kept in an enclosed area and/or has a lid that is always shut. Before the garbage is completely full, take it to the outside cart.
Keeping your small home garbage bins clean and fresh is easy. It can be done just by adding a couple of extra steps, which may seem daunting at first, but that will help you in the long run. Dryer sheets, cat litter, and unwanted paper flyers can be used to reduce smells and keep things fresh.
Recycling additional items helps the overall environment, as well as your kitchen environment.
If you are looking for a bin rental service in Etobicoke, then Scarborough Disposal Ltd. has the right bins for you.
We provide clean and sanitized bins of varied sizes to help you with any project, so the bigger jobs are taken care of easily and quickly. Experienced with both commercial and residential disposal, we can assist with taking items to the landfill and recycling items too.
To speak to one of our friendly and professional team members, call (416)-265-7979 or contact us here.