Trash Can Cleaning Made Easy - Eliminate Odors Fast

Trash cans in high-traffic areas, such as commercial facilities, airports, schools, and industrial zones, require special attention to maintain hygiene and prevent odors, pests, and bacteria buildup. Proper maintenance of these trash cans is essential for ensuring cleanliness, enhancing the user experience, and complying with health and safety regulations. This guide provides actionable strategies and solutions for managing trash cans in high-traffic facilities.

The Importance of Clean Trash Cans in High-Traffic Areas

In facilities with high foot traffic, trash cans endure heavy use and a constant influx of waste. Regular cleaning isn’t just about appearances; it’s about safeguarding public health and upholding your facility's reputation. Here’s why it matters:

1. Health and Safety: Dirty trash cans harbor bacteria, mold, and germs that can lead to illness among staff, customers, or visitors. 

2. Odor Control: Unpleasant smells can negatively impact perceptions of cleanliness and professionalism. 

3. Pest Prevention: Unmaintained trash cans attract pests like flies, ants, and rodents, creating additional sanitation challenges. 

4. Compliance with Regulations: Many industries require strict hygiene standards, and clean trash cans contribute to compliance. 

5. Facility Reputation: A clean environment leaves a positive impression, boosting patron and employee satisfaction and loyalty.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Trash Cans

1. Assemble the Right Cleaning Tools

Before cleaning, ensure you have the appropriate tools and supplies to tackle high-traffic facility trash cans effectively. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Heavy-duty gloves: For protection against bacteria and sharp objects. 

• Industrial-strength scrub brushes or pressure washers: For thorough cleaning. 

• Disinfectants approved for commercial use: To eliminate bacteria and odors. 

• Deodorizers: To leave bins smelling fresh after cleaning.

• Hose with a high-pressure nozzle: For rinsing. 

• Absorbent liners: For post-cleaning odor control. 

• Signage or barriers: To prevent interference during cleaning.

2. Remove and Sort Trash

Begin by emptying the trash can completely. For facilities that promote recycling, sort waste into appropriate bins to ensure compliance with environmental standards.

Pro Tip: Train staff on proper waste segregation to reduce contamination and improve recycling rates.

3. Pre-Rinse the Trash Can

A pre-rinse is essential to remove loose debris and reduce grime buildup:

• Use a high-pressure hose or pressure washer to rinse the interior and exterior of the trash can. 

• Focus on the rims, handles, and base where waste tends to accumulate.

• Ensure the water drains fully before moving to the next step.

4. Apply an Effective Cleaning Solution

Choose a cleaning solution suitable for the demands of high-traffic areas:

• Industrial Degreasers: Effective for heavy grime and residue. 

• Eco-Friendly Cleaners: Ideal for facilities with sustainability goals. 

• Bleach Solutions: Suitable for high-risk areas like hospitals or kitchens to kill bacteria and viruses.

Apply the cleaner evenly across all surfaces using a sprayer or sponge. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to break down dirt and eliminate germs.

5. Scrub and Rinse Thoroughly

Using a  scrub brush or pressure washer, clean the interior and exterior of the trash can:

• Focus on high-touch areas like lids and handles. 

• Use a long-handled scrubber for deep bins. 

• After scrubbing, rinse thoroughly with clean water, ensuring all cleaning agents are removed.

Pro Tip: Use a drain-safe deodorizer in the rinse water for added odor control.

6. Disinfect for Hygiene and Safety

Disinfection is critical in high-traffic facilities. Use an  EPA-approved disinfectant or a bleach solution:

• Apply disinfectant to all surfaces and allow it to air dry or sit for the recommended contact time. 

• Ensure disinfectants are safe for the material of the trash can to prevent corrosion.

7. Dry Properly to Prevent Mold and Odors

Damp trash cans can quickly develop mold and odors:

• Air dry the trash can in a well-ventilated area or use an industrial fan for faster drying. 

• Ensure lids and liners are completely dry before reassembling.

Maintenance Tips for High-Traffic Areas

Regular maintenance reduces the frequency of deep cleaning and keeps facilities sanitary. Here’s how to maintain clean trash cans in busy spaces:

1. Use Liners: High-quality liners reduce leakage and make waste disposal more efficient. 

2. Daily Inspections: Check trash cans for overflows, leaks, or odors. 

3. Scheduled Cleaning: Establish a routine for weekly and monthly cleaning, depending on the volume of use. 

4. Odor Prevention: Use absorbent pads or baking soda at the bottom of the bin. 

5. Replace Damaged Bins: Broken or cracked bins should be replaced promptly to prevent further issues.

Common Challenges in Facility Trash Can Cleaning

1. Overflowing Trash 

Solution: Increase the frequency of trash collection during peak hours and consider adding additional bins in high-use areas. 

2. Strong Odors 

Solution: Use odor-neutralizing products and ensure trash is removed promptly especially food waste. 

3. Stains and Residue 

Solution: Use heavy-duty scrubbers and industrial cleaners to tackle stubborn grime. 

4. Pest Issues 

Solution: Seal trash cans tightly with a lid and schedule regular pest control inspections.

FAQs

How often should trash cans in high-traffic areas be cleaned?

Trash cans should be emptied daily, spot cleaned weekly, and deep cleaned monthly for optimal hygiene. 

What cleaning products are best for trash cans in commercial facilities? 

Use industrial degreasers, eco-friendly cleaners, or bleach solutions, depending on the level of dirt and facility requirements. 

How can I prevent odors in trash cans?

Use liners, absorbent pads, and deodorizers. Remove trash promptly and rinse bins regularly. 

What’s the best way to clean outdoor trash cans in public spaces?

Use a pressure washer for efficiency and a strong disinfectant to handle exposure to various waste types.

Are there eco-friendly cleaning options for trash cans? 

Yes, vinegar and baking soda are effective natural alternatives, and many eco-friendly commercial cleaners are available.

How to kill maggots in a trash can?

• Remove the trash bag: Take out the trash bag from the can to eliminate any organic waste attracting the maggots.

• Clean the trash can: Scrub the interior with hot water and a strong disinfectant to remove any maggots, eggs, and residual waste. 

• Use a pest control product: If maggots are persistent, you can use insecticidal sprays or a solution of vinegar and water to kill them. 

• Freeze or boil water: Pour boiling water or freeze the trash can for a few hours to kill the maggots.

How should food workers deter pests from trash cans?

• Proper waste disposal: Ensure that food waste is disposed of immediately in sealed trash bags to prevent pests from being attracted. 

• Use pest-proof trash bins: Use trash cans with tight-fitting lids to keep pests from accessing food scraps. 

• Regular cleaning: Clean trash cans regularly with hot water and disinfectant to avoid food residue buildup. 

• Place trash cans away from food prep areas: Keep trash cans as far from food preparation and storage areas as possible.

Can you throw batteries in the trash?

No, you should not throw batteries in the regular trash. Many types of batteries, especially lithium-ion, alkaline, and rechargeable batteries, can leak harmful chemicals or pose fire hazards when disposed of improperly. Instead, take them to a designated recycling or disposal center that accepts batteries.

Clean Trash Cans for Cleaner Facilities

In high-traffic areas, clean trash cans aren’t just a necessity—they’re a cornerstone of a hygienic and welcoming facility. Following these steps and implementing regular maintenance routines can enhance sanitation, reduce odors, and create a positive environment for all visitors.