Bicarbonate of soda, a common kitchen staple often used in baking, is being highlighted as an easy way to absorb unpleasant odours from food waste caddies. The ingredient, typically costing under £1 in many supermarkets, offers a simple solution to tackle smelly food waste bins and bin juice.
What Is a Food Waste Caddy?
A bin caddy is a small container used to collect food waste such as vegetable peelings, tea bags, coffee grounds, leftovers and eggshells. Many UK households keep one under the sink or on a worktop before emptying it into an outdoor food waste bin. Without regular cleaning, a food waste caddy can quickly develop odours, spills, and bin juice.
Which? Shares Simple Cleaning Steps
Consumer watchdog Which? has shared simple steps to help tackle unpleasant smells and spills. In a TikTok video, the experts discuss a “quick and easy way to clean a smelly food caddy.” The steps are designed to keep caddies fresh, clean, and hygienic.
Step 1: Remove the Liner
If you use a compostable bag or liner, remove it carefully and empty the contents into your outdoor food waste bin. Compostable liners are widely available from UK supermarkets and can make dealing with food waste much easier by helping reduce mess and leaks.
Step 2: Remove Any Leftover Residue
Check the inside of the caddy for any leftover food scraps or sticky residue. Use kitchen roll or paper towels to remove any remaining food waste, spills, or “bin juice” before giving the inside a thorough clean.
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 where grime can collect. For a deeper clean, especially if there is a strong odour or liquid build-up, soak the caddy in hot water with washing-up liquid for a few minutes before wiping it thoroughly 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 it thoroughly afterwards.
Step 5: Let It Dry Completely
Allow the caddy to air dry completely before inserting a new liner. Keeping the caddy dry helps prevent moisture build-up and reduces the likelihood of unpleasant odours returning.
Step 6: Add a Fresh Liner and Bicarbonate of Soda
A simple tip is to sprinkle bicarbonate of soda at the bottom of your caddy to help absorb bad smells. It’s a common kitchen item you may already have at home, and can help keep your caddy fresher. Once the caddy is clean and dry, fit a new compostable liner, and it’s ready to use again. Regular cleaning helps keep your food waste caddy fresher, minimise odours, and make emptying it a more pleasant task.
