Smelly garbage cans surrounded by insect pests: here's how to eliminate this problem
With the introduction of separate waste collection, we have all become much more aware of how we throw things away. These days, most of us have become much more eco-conscious and actively seek to reduce our impact on the environment.
That said, we all know that waste can create unpleasant odors and attract insects (and other pests), especially when it comes to organic waste. So, how best to deal with this?
Prevent unpleasant smells
Creativo
Garbage and waste - especially if wet and/or organic - gives off unpleasant odors. Food waste, peels, herbal tea filters, egg shells and more are the main "culpits" here. In just a few days, insects and other pests can be attracted to malodorous waste too. So, how can we deal with this, especially if the garbage can is kept under the sink?
- Cleaning. We make sure that the organic waste bucket is always clean and that liquid residue does not stagnate on the bottom.
- Bag change. We don't wait for the bag to fill up completely, but empty the can several times during the week. This way, there is no chance of the waste fermenting and rotting inside your home.
- Closed container. Make sure your garbage can has a lid to trap any smells inside. Pedal-operated cans are the most convenient to use.
- Liners. To soak up liquids and to prevent the can from getting (very) dirty, line it with absorbent paper (which obviously gets changed whenever the bag itself is changed).
- Double bag. The biodegradable bags that are used to collect waste are very thin. As a result, they can tear and rip easily. You can prevent this simply by double-bagging.
Persistent unpleasant odors?
Creativo
You've taken the steps listed above, but the garbage can continues to give off an unpleasant odor. So what can be done? Well, you can try these tips:
- Use citrus peels. Put citris peels at the bottom of the can so that their perfume counteracts the bad smell.
- Coffee. Coffee beans have an unmistakable and unique aroma (which many find pleasant). Put a handful of coffee (grounds or beans) under the bag in the garbage can.
- Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda). Always an excellent ally, put one or two spoons of baking soda at the bottom of the garbage can (preferably on top of a paper "shield"). The soda will absorb moisture, keep insects at bay and will combat any unpleasant odors.
- Cat litter. That's right, cat litter can counteract unpleasant odors and neutralize them. Simply put a scoop of cat litter at the bottom of your garbage can.
Other useful tips...
Lisa Fotios/Pexels
The advice we have seen so far is especially useful with regard to the organic waste can, but the other can also need caring for. For undifferentiated waste, you can use the same methods to avoid smells developing. For plastic, metal and even glass, garbage cans, the important thing is to wash out any containers before throwing them in the garbage cans.
Finally, all garbage cans, of all types, should be washed out frequently.
Now, get to work!
