CLEANING the bins is a job that nobody enjoys doing, yet it is necessary for good sanitation.
Here are some tips on how you can clean your bins properly.
How to clean a bin
It's a job many like to avoid, but when you change your bin liner and discover there is an unusual smell, it's definitely time to get the rubber gloves out.
But don't panic! With this quick and easy step-by-step guide you can get them sparkling clean in no time.
Step one - Grab your cleaning supplies
The first step is to grab your cleaning supplies - and the good news is you won't need to use much.
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For cleaning products, there are a number you can try out.
You may want to use hot water and soap, a multi-purpose cleaner, or white vinegar and bicarbonate of soda - either way they all do the trick.
And in terms of equipment, all you need to clean the bins properly is rubber gloves, a scrubbing brush and your choice of a cleaning solution.
Step two - Apply your cleaning solution
If you're using hot soapy water, make sure you only fill the inside of the bin a quarter full.
If you're going for the second option and using a multi-purpose cleaning spay - then spray away.
And if you're using vinegar and bicarbonate of soda - combine equal amounts of each ingredient into half a cup, or more if the bin’s really big - this will create a paste.
Coat particularly stubborn areas with the paste and leave for around five minutes.
Remember to make sure your bin lid and the outside and the inside has been applied with the cleaning solution of your choice.
Step three - Scrub
Taking your scrubbing brush, make sure to scrub every inch of the bin - including the the lid, the inside and the exterior.
If you're using a multi-purpose cleaner don't forger to spray, scrub, then re-spray - this will ensure you get the best results.
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Step four - Rinse the bin
Once you've done the hard work - this next step is easy.
All you need to do is rinse your bin out with clean warm water.
This will ensure there is no cleaning solution left over - and will get rid of any streaks or missed speckles of dirt.
Step five - Wipe over
For the final step, you will want something absorbent and super strong when wet when you’re wiping out your bin.
So find the perfect paper towel for the job - then simply wipe dry and dispose.
A good hack suggests soaking a cotton wool pad with your favourite disinfectant and place at the bottom of the bin before you add your bin liner.
This will keep it smelling fresh.
How often should I clean the bins?
While it is tempting to avoid the job, the best way to make it less of an unpleasant one is to do it is regularly as you can.
It's a good habit to clean the bin whenever you empty it.
How to get rid of maggots in the bin?
Kitchen and wheelie refuse bins are a magnet for insects - especially maggots.
But don't panic - there's a way you can get rid of them.
And the good news is most maggots will go when the bin is emptied - but if they don't, here's how to get rid of them from your bin.
You could try using fly-spray as a first port of call - and if that doesn't work, pour in boiling water with a small amount of bleach.
Use a cleaning product with a fragrance as this will help deter flies in the future - and eliminate the risk of maggots in the bin.
One hack is to wipe the lid and edges with antibacterial product as this will deter flies.
