Should You Pour Bleach To Clean A Trashcan?

Few things are more unpleasant than lifting the lid of a trash can and being hit with a foul, gag-inducing odor. If you're looking for ways to clean and deodorize your trash can to combat funky smells, you might be tempted to douse the can with bleach. But that's not a good idea. While bleach is known for its ability to kill bacteria and get rid of bad odors, when using it as a cleaning agent, it's essential to dilute it properly first to avoid any harmful or dangerous side effects.

Because of its harsh, corrosive nature, undiluted bleach can damage the trash bin if you pour it in directly — especially if there are metal components, which could rust. It can also irritate your skin and eyes if the bleach splashes on you when you pour it, and even cause respiratory issues if you inhale the fumes. In addition, though it may seem counterintuitive, diluted bleach is actually a more effective cleaning solution than using it straight. 

To safely use bleach to disinfect a dirty trash can, the recommended ratio is 1 part bleach to 48 parts water. If you're using a 16-ounce spray bottle, that translates to 2 cups of water mixed with 2 teaspoons of bleach. If you're making a bigger batch, mix 1 gallon of water with ⅓ cup of bleach. After applying the bleach solution to the trash can, leave it on for about six minutes; then rinse with water and either wipe it down or let it air dry. 

While a diluted bleach solution is effective at killing bacteria and getting rid of odors, it won't get rid of dust, dirt, or residue, so it's a good idea to give your trash can a thorough cleaning first before applying it. The best way to do this is with water, dish soap, and a scrub brush — making sure to get under the rim and the lid. If the can is really dirty, you can let the soapy mixture sit for about 10 minutes before giving it a good scrub.  After you're done scrubbing, rinse the suds off completely. You can then apply the bleach solution.

There are a few things to keep in mind when diluting bleach. It's important to use water that is cool or room temperature instead of hot. Hot water causes the main ingredient in bleach — sodium hypochlorite — to break down more quickly, making the solution less effective. You should also avoid mixing bleach with anything other than water. For instance, you may think adding some lemon — a nice-smelling, natural sanitizer — may be a safe and effective way to help disinfect and deodorize your bin. However, mixing this natural cleaning ingredient with bleach is a dangerous mistake. The same is true for ammonia, vinegar, rubbing alcohol, or other cleaning products, all of which could cause a dangerous and potentially fatal chemical reaction. Once you're done using the bleach solution, make sure to properly and safely dispose of the bleach by rinsing it straight down the drain.