Washing a trash can is not enough – the odor lives in invisible bacteria on the surface.

  1. Empty completely and rinse with a hose outdoors if possible.
  2. Spray the entire interior with an all-purpose disinfectant cleaner.
  3. Let sit 5 minutes, then scrub with a long-handled brush.
  4. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely in the sun.
  5. Sprinkle baking soda in the bottom before replacing the liner.

Double-bag meat and fish scraps before disposing. These are the source of most persistent trash can odors.