Wheelie bin cleaning 101

If the warmer weather has suddenly made you notice the unpleasant stench of your wheelie bin, it might just be time to give it a good clean. If you’ve drawn the short straw and you’re doing it, here are some pointers to help you eliminate nasty bin smells for good.

Choose a good spot to clean it

Wheelie bins can be big and bulky, so choose a spot where you can give it a good clean, where you aren’t worried about water splashing anything, and where the dirty water can easily be disposed of. If any water is going to be going down a drain, check that you’re not breaking any environmental rules, especially if you’ve been using cleaning products that contain bleach.

Use a mop or a broom to scrub the inside of the bin

You’ll most likely find that liquids and debris get stuck in the bottom corners of the bin and if they aren’t cleaned, bacteria grows and that’s when you get the bad smell. A broom or mop will make it easier to reach and sweep away any dirt and debris. You can try using a large sponge or similar to clean around the outside of the bin, and don’t forget the lid and wheels.

Use a hose or a pressure washer

If you have the space and your wheelie bin is in dire need of an extreme clean, use a garden hose or pressure washer. If you’re using a pressure washer, wear rubber gloves and take care that no debris gets anywhere near your eyes. Place the bin on the ground against a wall, use the gentlest spray nozzle so that the bin doesn’t move all over the place. Stand to the side of the bin as you spray, as the residue will be flowing out and you really don’t want it on your shoes!

Choose cleaning products wisely

Your product choice will probably be determined on how much of a clean your bin needs and how you’ll be disposing of the dirty water. You might be convinced that you need to use a harsh bleach or antibacterial product to clean your bin but remember that these are not necessarily 100% safe or good for the environment. Don’t underestimate the value of good old soapy water and natural products like vinegar which will clean your bin and keep it smelling fresh.

Let it dry fully

Let your wheelie bin air dry after washing it if it’s a dry and sunny day. This will help keep germs at bay.

Or the best way to get the job done is to book a Bin Butler