How to Clean a Wheelie Bin

Cleaning a wheelie bin may not be the most thrilling task, but the payoff is definitely worth it. Plus, the more frequently you clean a wheelie bin, the less you’ll have to endure those unpleasant odours.

Imagine stepping outside, taking in a breath of fresh air, only to be greeted by an alarming odour emanating from your wheelie bin. It’s enough to make your nose wrinkle in disgust.

We’ve all experienced that unpleasant moment when we quickly dump the trash, holding our breath in hopes of escaping the stench. But fear not, because there’s a solution to get rid of that foul smell once and for all.

By following a few simple steps, you will no longer have to fear taking out the trash. So let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the world of wheelie bin cleaning. We’ll embark on an interactive journey, exploring the best tips, tricks, and techniques to clean a wheelie bin like a pro.

How to Clean a Wheelie Bin

Why Is Cleaning Your Wheelie Bin Important?

Over time, wheelie bins accumulate dirt, grime, and unpleasant odours, making it essential to clean them regularly.

Cleaning your wheelie bin is crucial for several reasons:

• First and foremost, it’s all about hygiene. Nobody wants their wheelie bin to become a breeding ground for bacteria and germs that can make you and your family sick. You’re taking a proactive step toward maintaining a healthy and safe environment by giving it a good scrub. 
• Regular cleaning also eliminates unpleasant odours, ensuring a fresh-smelling environment. 
• Pests, such as rats and flies won’t be able to resist a dirty wheelie bin. However, when you clean a wheelie bin regularly, it discourages pests from being attracted to the waste and causing further issues.

How Often Should You Clean a Wheelie Bin?

The frequency of cleaning your wheelie bin depends on several factors, such as the type of waste you dispose of and the local climate. 

As a general guideline, it is recommended to clean your bin at least once every two months. However, if you notice foul odours, visible dirt buildup, or pest activity, it’s advisable to clean your bin more frequently.

Materials Needed to Clean a Wheelie Bin

Before you start cleaning your wheelie bin, gather the following materials:

• Rubber gloves
• Spray Bottle
• Face mask 
• High-pressure hose or garden hose with a spray nozzle
• Long-handled brush
• Biodegradable detergent or bin cleaner
• Disinfectant solution
• Broom or mop
• Absorbent towels or newspaper
• Boiling water 
• Vinegar

Preparing to Clean a Wheelie Bin

Firstly, prioritise your safety. Put on a pair of gloves and consider wearing a face mask to shield yourself from any dust or odours that may arise.

Additionally, prior to cleaning your wheelie bin, it’s essential to prepare the surrounding area. Move the bin to an open space outdoors, away from any sensitive surfaces or objects. Ensure there is a water source nearby, as well as a drain or area where the dirty water can safely be disposed of.

Steps to Clean a Wheelie Bin

Step 1: Empty the wheelie bin and remove loose debris

Remove all garbage from the wheelie bin and use a high-pressure hose or a garden hose with a spray nozzle to thoroughly rinse the inside and outside of the wheelie bin. The force of the water will help remove loose debris and dirt.

Step 2: Clean the interior and exterior of your wheelie bin

Apply a biodegradable detergent or bin cleaner to the interior and exterior surfaces of the bin. Use a long-handled brush to scrub the surfaces, paying particular attention to areas with stubborn stains or grime. 

If you find stubborn, hardened gunk clinging to the base of your wheelie bin, there’s a simple solution. Fill it up with enough hot water to cover the stuck-on area and let it sit for 15 minutes. Soaking will loosen the grime and make it easier to remove.

Once the bottom of the wheelie bin has had time to soak, scrub the area with a long-handled brush to get rid of any remaining stains. Empty the dirty water from the bin and give it a final rinse with fresh water from your hose. Don’t forget to scrub the lid, wheels, and handles as well.

Step 3: Disinfect the wheelie bin

To further eliminate any remaining pests or bacteria, clean the bin using a suitable disinfectant solution. In addition to getting rid of water stains and mineral deposits on your toilet, vinegar acts as a powerful, natural disinfectant when cleaning a wheelie bin.

In a suitable container, mix equal parts of white vinegar and water. For example, you can combine one cup of vinegar with one cup of water. Adjust the quantities based on the size of your wheelie bin.

Transfer the vinegar and water mixture into a spray bottle. Generously spray the vinegar and water solution onto the internal and external surfaces of the bin. Ensure that you cover all areas, including the lid, wheels, and handles. Not only will the vinegar and water solution get rid of any remaining pests, but it will also eliminate the pest-attracting odours. 

Allow the vinegar and water solution to sit on the surfaces for approximately 10-15 minutes. Then, rinse the wheelie bin thoroughly with fresh water to remove any remaining vinegar solution and residue.

Step 4: Drying the wheelie bin

Use a broom or mop to remove excess water from the bin. Finally, dry the bin completely using absorbent towels, or newspaper, or by leaving it in a sunny spot to air dry.

Effective Ways to Eliminate Pests from Your Wheelie Bin

When faced with a pest infestation in your wheelie bin such as maggots, one cost-effective solution stands out: boiling water. The hot water works to eliminate the pests by scalding and drowning them. 

Boil a generous amount of water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, carefully pour it onto the inner sides and base of your wheelie bin. Make sure to cover all areas where pests may be hiding.

Once the water has cooled sufficiently, carefully empty the contents of the bin into a garbage bag or designated waste receptacle. Be cautious while handling the bin, as it may still be warm. After emptying the wheelie bin, rinse it thoroughly with clean water, ensuring that all remnants of pests are washed away.

While boiling water provides a temporary solution to rid your wheelie bin of small critters, if your bin remains untidy or contains foul-smelling rubbish, pests may return.

Tips for Maintaining a Clean Wheelie Bin

Regularly bag your trash

Ensure that all your waste is securely bagged before placing it in the bin. This helps to contain any leaks or spills, preventing them from sticking to the bin’s surfaces.

Use bin liners or garbage bags

Consider using bin liners or garbage bags inside your wheelie bin. These liners provide an additional layer of protection, making it easier to keep the bin clean and preventing any direct contact between the waste and the bin itself.

Replace damaged wheelie bins

Wheelie bins with holes or cracks offer pests and bugs shelter and a potential food source. In such cases, consider replacing your old and damaged wheelie bin to avoid nasty infestations.

Pest-proof your wheelie bin

• In addition to getting rid of pantry bugs, food-grade diatomaceous earth can eliminate pests like roaches and ants in your wheelie bins.

Rinse containers before disposal

If you have any food or beverage containers that are particularly messy or sticky, take a moment to rinse them before disposing of them in the bin. Doing so helps to minimise the build-up of residue and odours.

Keep the lid closed

Make sure to always close the lid of your wheelie bin securely. This prevents pests, animals, and rainwater from entering the bin, reducing the likelihood of odours and messes.

Regularly clean the bin

While wheelie bins don’t need to be cleaned as often as changing your bedsheets, regular cleaning sessions should be scheduled. Use a mixture of mild detergent and water or even vinegar and water as a natural cleaning solution.

Allow the bin to air dry

After cleaning, allow your wheelie bin to air dry completely before placing any new waste inside. Drying prevents the accumulation of moisture, which can lead to unpleasant smells and the growth of bacteria.

Store your wheelie bin correctly

If possible, store your bin in a shaded area to reduce the growth of bacteria and minimise unpleasant odours.

Consider deodorising options

If desired, you can use deodorising products specifically designed for wheelie bins to keep them smelling fresh. These products help to neutralise odours and maintain a pleasant scent.

Cleaning your wheelie bin is an essential task to maintain hygiene, eliminate odours, and prevent pest infestations. Follow our comprehensive step-by-step guide to keep your wheelie bin clean, fresh, and free from harmful bacteria. With these expert tips, you’ll create a healthier environment while safeguarding against pesky critters.