Discover four brilliant hacks to freshen up your smelly trash can, brought to you by experienced housekeepers. We all know that trash has an inevitable unpleasant odor, but keeping that smell under control is crucial to avoid it permeating your entire home. Just imagine the scent seeping into other rooms, making your house feel dirty and unpleasant, especially when you’re trying to enjoy a meal in a smelly dining room. Moreover, leaving the odor unattended could attract pests like bugs, flies, and even mice. Don’t wait for the smell to fade on its own, as our noses tend to get accustomed to it. It’s time to take action! In this guide, we will unveil four fantastic methods using everyday household items to eliminate those pesky trash can odors.

How to remove foul trash can odors

Eliminating bad smells from garbage is almost impossible, but you can stop them from odorizing the room. Here are the best methods to reach that goal.

1. Use baking soda

Baking soda is well known for its deodorizing properties. Before replacing the trash bag, sprinkle enough powder to form a thin layer at the bottom of the can. Let it act overnight, and you’ll notice the difference the next day.

Note: Avoid this tip if you have a metal trash can, as the baking soda might damage it.

2. Add cat litter

Another great option (especially if you have a metal can) is using cat litter. A layer of cat litter at the bottom of your trash can will absorb odors, humidity, and leaking liquids. You can also get scented cat litter to give a more pleasant aroma to your can.

3. Try some dryer sheets

If you don’t want to deal with powder, there is a more practical way to eliminate bad smells in your trash can. 

The trick is to put a couple of dryer sheets at the bottom of the garbage can; the sheets will absorb odors and replace them with a fresh scent. No need to get brand-new dryer sheets for this hack; used ones work fine too!

4. DIY odorizing tabs

This hack is a perfect alternative if you want a specific smell for your kitchen. 

First, mix baking soda, vanilla extract, distilled water, and your favorite essential oil in a bowl until no lumps are visible. When it thickens, pour the mix into a mold of your choice (an ice tray is a good option) and let it dry for two days until it hardens. 

Once ready, pop out the tabs and put as many as you need in an open container at the bottom of the trash can.

Don’t forget to wash the trash can

If nothing helps decrease the stink in your can, maybe it’s time to give it a good wash. You’ll have to take the trash can outside—unless it’s your outdoor can. Lay it on its side, pour a little dish soap, and scrub every surface with a long-handled brush.

When you’re done, rinse the soap and grime with a high-pressure hose or a container with water, trying to reach every corner of the garbage bin. Then, turn the can upside down to drain it and then dry it with any spare rags.

Keep your house free from bad odors with regular cleaning

Are you tired of dealing with foul smells? Hire the best cleaning team in Houston, TX! CleanArte Maid Services is ready to cover all your cleaning needs. Our professionals will thoroughly clean your house and leave it with a fresh scent from top to bottom. Ask for a free estimate now!