If a strange smell persists in the kitchen despite taking out the kitchen waste daily, then the problem may not be just the new waste. Many times, food pieces, spilled liquids and accumulated moisture stuck inside the dustbin become the real cause of bad smell.
Often people do not clean the inside of the dustbin thinking that there is always a bag of garbage in it. But when the bag leaks or any liquid reaches the bottom, the dirt gets accumulated on the surface of the dustbin. Over time, this dirt can cause bacteria and odor.
If you are also troubled by the smell of the kitchen dustbin, then by adopting some easy cleaning tips you can keep it clean and fresh for a long time.
Do deep cleaning once a month
Food remains, vegetable peels and liquids keep reaching the kitchen dustbin every day. So simply changing the garbage bag is not enough.
Dustbin should be thoroughly cleaned at least once a month. However, if the bag leaks, something wet falls or suddenly a bad smell starts coming out, it is better to clean it immediately.
Remove all dirt before cleaning
Before cleaning the dustbin, empty it completely. After removing the bag, also remove small pieces of food stuck in the bottom and corners.
After this, clean the dustbin thoroughly inside and outside with the help of lukewarm water and mild dish soap. Pay special attention to the dirt accumulated at the bottom and corners.
If the dustbin is deep and it is difficult to reach the bottom, a brush with a long handle can be used.
Not just inside, clean these parts too
While cleaning the dustbin, it is not enough to wash only the inside part. Dirt can also accumulate in places like the lid, sides, handles, pedals, and hinges.
These parts come in contact with hands frequently, so it is important to clean them regularly. After cleaning, wash the dustbin thoroughly with water, so that no residue of soap or cleaner remains.
Use baking soda to get rid of bad smell
If a slight odor persists after washing the dustbin, a small amount of baking soda can be poured into the bottom before installing a new liner.
Baking soda can help reduce odor. However, to hide the bad smell, one should avoid using too much air freshener or perfume. The strong scent and odor of garbage combined can make the problem worse.
It is necessary to dry the dustbin before installing a new bag.
After washing the dustbin, do not rush to install a new garbage bag immediately. If moisture remains inside, bacteria and odors can re-produce.
Therefore, let the dustbin air dry thoroughly. Apply new liner only after it dries completely.
Clean plastic and steel dustbins differently
Plastic dustbins can be cleaned with mild dish soap or general cleaner. Cleaning with a scrubber that is too rough can scratch the surface, where dirt can then accumulate.
At the same time, it is considered better to use soft microfiber cloth to clean stainless steel dustbin. Steel wool or hard scrubbers may damage the surface.
If the dustbin has a sensor or automatic lid, do not spray water or cleaner directly on the electronic parts. Apply cleaner to the cloth and clean carefully.
Don't make these mistakes at all
Some mistakes while cleaning dustbin can be harmful-
• Do not use more soap or cleaner than necessary.
• Do not mix different chemical cleaners.
• Mixing bleach with cleaners containing vinegar, ammonia or acids can be dangerous.
• Do not postpone cleaning for a long time if the bag leaks.
• Do not immediately install a new liner in a wet dustbin.
The easiest way to stop bad smell
The best way to keep the kitchen dustbin from smelling is regular cleaning and not allowing moisture to accumulate. As soon as any liquid is spilled or the garbage bag leaks, clean up immediately.
By adopting small precautions, you can keep your kitchen dustbin clean, hygienic and free from odor. After all, not only taking out the garbage but also cleaning the dustbin is equally important for a healthy and clean kitchen.