How to Clean a Trash Can

How to Clean Plastic Trash Cans

These steps can be followed when cleaning plastic kitchen, bath, or outdoor trash cans.

1. Empty the Trash Can

   Remove the plastic liner or empty the trash can of all debris. If you are cleaning an outside garbage can before trash pick-up day, place the garbage on an old tarp or wait until the can is empty.

   Tip

   The best time to clean a garbage can, especially large cans, is on a sunny, breezy day when you can work outdoors and allow it to air dry after properly cleaning it. Sunlight is also a mild disinfectant that can further help clean your can.

2. Rinse out the Can

   If you are working outdoors, use a garden hose to rinse out the trash can. Indoors, work in a large utility sink or the bathtub. Be sure to place a strainer over indoor drains to catch any debris.
   

3. Apply a Cleaner

   For plastic trash cans that are not heavily soiled, sprinkle the freshly rinsed interior with baking soda. The baking soda will act as a mild abrasive to remove any stuck-on debris and help combat odors. Scrub with a nylon-bristled brush.

   If the bottom of the can is sticky, add some warm water and about one teaspoon of an all-purpose cleaner or dishwashing liquid. Allow the can to soak for about 30 minutes and then scrub with the brush.

4. Clean the Exterior of the Can

   Use the same cleaning solutions to tackle any grime on the outside of the trash can. For trash cans with removable lids, be sure to clean both the outside and inside of the lid.
   

5. Rinse Well and Dry

   Rinse the interior of the can well. Allow large garbage carts to air-dry with the lid open. Smaller plastic trash cans can be dried with microfiber towels or air dried.
   

6. Disinfect the Trash Can

   To kill microbes that cause odor or spread germs, spray the can with a disinfecting spray once it is cleaned.
   

   Tip

   Be sure to check the product label before you spray: Some disinfectant sprays can damage acrylic and other plastics.

7. Replace the Liner

   If you usually use a liner, place a new liner in your freshly cleaned can. To help keep your trash can clean and smelling fresh longer, use a sturdy liner and one that eliminates odors like Glad ForceFlexPlus with Clorox.

   Tip

   Store extra plastic bags or liners in the bottom of the trash can to make a quicker replacement.

How to Clean Metal and Decorative Trash Cans

1. Stainless Steel Trash Cans

   Most stainless steel trash cans have a plastic liner that should be cleaned following the guidelines for plastic trash cans.

   To clean the exterior (and interior, if needed) of the can, use a mild all-purpose cleaner and a sponge. Always wipe in the direction of the stainless steel grain and work from the top of the can toward the bottom. For stuck-on soil, sprinkle the sponge with a bit of dry baking soda and gently scrub.

   Rinse the can well to remove any soapy residue and dry with a microfiber cloth to prevent water spots and streaks. A few drops of mineral oil on a dry cloth will help buff away any fingerprints or water spots.

   Tip

   Make a paste of cream of tartar and a few drops of lemon juice to remove small rust stains from stainless steel. Apply with a sponge and let it sit for about ten minutes before gently scrubbing and wiping away. Repeat if needed. Once the stains are gone, rinse the area well to prevent the lemon juice from corroding the surface.

2. Ceramic Trash Cans

   Decorative ceramic trash cans are most often used in bathrooms and bedrooms. Hand wash them in warm soapy water, rinse, and dry with a microfiber cloth.

   Since they are often the catch-all for tissues and dental floss, use a disinfecting spray after cleaning to kill bacteria.
   

3. Woven Natural Fiber Trash Cans

   Woven fiber trash cans (rattan) can be cleaned by wiping the interior and exterior with a damp cloth to remove dust and surface soil. Do not submerge them or use excessive amounts of water. Allow to air-dry and always use a plastic liner or bag to keep them clean.