Bicarbonate of soda, a common kitchen cupboard staple often used in baking, can help keep food waste bins smelling fresher by absorbing unpleasant odours and bin juice. Consumer website Which? has shared simple tips to tackle unwanted smells and spills in a TikTok video, offering a quick and easy way to clean a smelly food caddy.
What Is a Food Waste Caddy?
A food waste caddy is a small container used to collect food waste such as vegetable peelings, tea bags, coffee grounds, leftovers, and eggshells. Many households keep one in the kitchen before emptying it into their outdoor food waste bin. Without regular cleaning, these caddies can quickly develop unpleasant odours, spills, and liquid residue.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide
Step 1: Remove the Liner
If you use a compostable liner, remove it carefully and empty the contents into your outdoor food waste bin. Compostable liners help reduce mess and leaks.
Step 2: Remove Leftover Residue
Check the inside of the caddy for any leftover food scraps or sticky residue. Use kitchen roll or paper towels to remove remaining food waste, spills, or bin juice before cleaning.
Step 3: Give It a Thorough Clean
Spray the inside of the caddy with a multipurpose cleaner and wipe all surfaces, including the lid and edges. For a deeper clean, soak it in hot water with a little washing-up liquid for a few minutes before wiping clean.
Step 4: Tackle Stubborn Smells
If the caddy still has an odour, spray it with disinfectant or leave it to soak in hot, soapy water for a longer period. Rinse thoroughly afterwards.
Step 5: Let It Dry Completely
Allow the caddy to air dry completely before fitting a new liner. Ensuring the caddy is fully dry helps prevent moisture build-up and reduces the risk of unpleasant odours developing.
Step 6: Add a Fresh Liner and Bicarbonate of Soda
A simple way to help keep your caddy fresh is to sprinkle a small amount of bicarbonate of soda in the bottom. This common household ingredient helps absorb unpleasant odours and is likely something you already have at home. Once the caddy is clean and dry, fit a new compostable liner. Regular cleaning helps keep your food waste caddy fresh, reduces unpleasant odours, and makes emptying it a more pleasant task.
