Trash cans and waste disposal bins are useful things to centralize the gathering of garbage and waste but they can present problems by the nature of what it is that they collect.  If trash cans and bins are not properly managed, they will become areas that produce a bad smell and odor and that in general, that detract from the environment of kitchens or waste disposal areas.

Odors or smells that we associate with trash cans and waste disposal bins are a byproduct of what goes into them – byproducts of our daily activities.  Trash smell is generally not a single smell but a combination and interaction of different odor causing waste.  This waste products combining together over time will then produce a magnified odor and also be a target for insects and pests.

However a solution does exist in how we deal with our waste – what we can call waste management!

The biggest thing now and in line with modern living is to segregate waste;  three separate trash cans possibly inside and probably outside will be a good system.

1. one container for recyclables – waste paper, cardboard, plastic bottles, aluminum cans, and other items that are recyclable (rinse beverage and food containers to avoid odor buildup)
2. one container for biodegradable waste including food waste – these products can become part of compost, and used as fertilizer or mulch; if this isn’t the plan, then food waste can of course be recycled through your garburator so it doesn’t create a smell indoors
3. one container for what can’t go into the other two containers and is therefore designated for the landfill

Don’t forget to keep waste and garbage cans clean themselves.  When you empty them, clean them as well.  A product such as lysol disinfectant cleaner works well.  Buildup can also be prevented by lining waste cans and trash bins with garbage bags.

Lastly, and in particular to keep the area where you keep waste cans in your home, you can utilize some household or otherwise readily available products to deodorize or keep the area smelling fresh.

• coffee grounds and tea leaves placed in a tray will absorb and mask foul odors
• dry citrus peels from oranges or lemons help to mask odors
• scented pine cones that you can pick up from craft stores such as Micheal’s (the pine cones also work for quite a long time)
• baking soda, the traditional home product that can also be placed in fridges to keep them smelling fresh because of baking powders natural absorbing power; if you want you can just spread some baking soda right into the garbage bag liner
• charcoal is often used to filter and deodorize – just get an ordinary bag of charcoal, break it up a bit and place around, or directly into the garbage bag liner
• vanilla extract has a strong vanilla fragrance that can mask odors caused by trash – apply some vanilla extract to a couple of cotton balls and place them at the top of the trash can

If you have any questions about housecleaning or business cleaning needs, call Ram Cleaning Services @ 403-291-1051 and ask to speak to one of our service representatives

Complete Cleaning and Maintenance Care in Calgary and area since 1967