Wheelie bins can develop a foul smell in hot weather as food waste decomposes faster, attracting flies and potentially causing maggot infestations. A simple, natural cleaning method using soda crystals can keep bins fresh and clean.
The Problem with Summer Bins
Organic waste in wheelie bins can turn to liquid, seeping through rubbish bags and leaving a sticky residue at the base. Hosing alone is insufficient to remove hardened deposits, and lingering odours persist, drawing flies.
Lynsey Crombie, known as the Queen of Clean, recommends an effective solution: soda crystals. She said: "If your wheelie bin is smelling less than fresh, here's a simple trick that really works. After washing your bin, sprinkle a generous handful of soda crystals into the bottom before adding a new liner or bag. They help neutralise lingering odours and keep your bin smelling fresher for longer."
Why Soda Crystals Work
Soda crystals are a highly alkaline substance that cuts through grease, fat, oils, and stubborn food deposits. They break down grime inside bins, making rinsing easier without scrubbing the base. This natural method eliminates stains and keeps bins odour-free throughout summer.
Soda crystals are available in most supermarkets, often labelled as washing soda or sodium carbonate, and cost between £2 and £3, depending on location.
How to Deep Clean a Wheelie Bin
Clean your bin on collection day when it is empty. Start by hosing off loose dirt. Then add a generous amount of soda crystals to the bin, pour warm water to cover the base, and let it soak for at least 30 minutes, or several hours, to break down grime.
After soaking, use a long-handled brush or broom to loosen remaining residue. Stubborn stains should lift easily. Hose the bin down again to remove all traces of staining. Doing this once during summer should suffice to eliminate odours and deter flies.
