The Reality of Dirty Trash Bins (+ How to Clean Them)
We create tons of waste every day, so trash bins are everywhere. But if they're not cleaned, they'll grow germs and even bring in pests like rats and javelinas if you’re a homeowner in Prescott, Arizona.
It's not just a bother, but a warning sign of the health hazards inside. In this article, you’ll learn what dangers dirty trash bins present and how we can keep them clean. It's important to understand the issue and deal with it so trash bins don't become a breeding ground of danger.
What bacteria is found in bins?
These types of bacteria are commonly found in trash bins, depending on the contents and how frequently they are cleaned.
Enterobacteriaceae: This family of bacteria can include harmful strains such as Escherichia Coli (E. Coli). They're in garbage bins, especially if there's food waste around.
Listeria Monocytogenes: Dirty trash bins, especially ones filled with raw meat, expired veggies, and spoiled milk, are where this bacterium thrives.
Staphylococcus: This type of bacteria can cause skin infections and food poisoning. It can be found in trash bins, especially in healthcare settings.
Salmonella: Commonly found in bins containing raw or undercooked poultry and eggs.
A lot of it comes down to regular cleaning and disposing of waste, especially food waste, to prevent bacterial growth in trash bins. To minimize the risk of bacterial contamination and disease spread, use liners in trash bins, dispose of waste properly, and learn what to clean your trash cans with.
Should waste bins be emptied and cleaned?
Yes, waste bins should be emptied and cleaned on a regular basis for several reasons:
Hygiene and health: Food waste can attract rodents and insects, which are attracted to food waste and can spread diseases if not emptied and cleaned regularly.
Odor control: Waste can produce unpleasant odors over time. Regular emptying and cleaning help remove smells from garbage cans.
Efficiency: Waste bins should be emptied regularly so that they don't overflow, which is unsightly and hinders the efficient disposal of additional waste. It also ensures the bins remain in good condition and prolongs their lifespan.
Legal compliance and aesthetics: There may be local or HOA regulations requiring the regular emptying and cleaning of waste bins to maintain community standards of cleanliness and aesthetics.
Keeping trash bins clean and empty is a fundamental part of waste management, contributing to public health, sustainability, and overall well-being.
What are the different types of waste bins?
Various types of waste bins are designed to cater to different needs and environments. Below are some categories and types of waste bins:
Material-based bins
Traditional Steel Trash Can: Sturdy and durable, ideal for outdoor use.
Outdoor Wicker Garbage Bin: Aesthetically pleasing and often used in patio settings.
Functionality-based bins
Rolling Garbage Bin: Equipped with wheels for easy mobility.
Step-on Garbage Bins: Operated by a foot pedal for hands-free use.
Swing Top Garbage Bin: Features a swing-top lid for easy disposal.
Touch-Free Garbage Bin: Equipped with sensors to open the lid without touching, promoting hygiene.
Disposal type bins
Compost Bin: For collecting organic waste to be composted.
Recycling Bin: For collecting recyclables like paper, plastic, and glass.
Double-Sided Recycling Bin: Has separate compartments for different recyclables.
Lid mechanism bins
Manual bins with a touch lid: Opened by hand.
Step-on trash cans: Opened with a foot pedal.
Specialty bins
Liquid Trash Cans: Designed with a built-in strainer to separate liquids from other waste, often found in commercial settings.
Medical Waste Bin: Specifically for medical facilities to dispose of hazardous materials like needles.
Size and capacity variants
Single waste bins, swing lid bins, and nappy bins: Tailored for different capacities and specific needs like diaper disposal.
What are the colors of waste bins?
Waste bin colors often vary by country and municipality, but many regions use standardized color schemes to help residents and businesses sort their waste correctly. Here's a general overview of some common waste bin colors and their associated waste types:
Green Bin:
Typically used for: Organic waste, garden waste, food waste.
Examples: Leftover food, plants, grass clippings.
Blue Bin:
Typically used for: Recyclables.
Examples: Paper, cardboard, plastics, cans.
Yellow Bin:
Typically used for: Plastic and/or packaging materials in some countries.
Examples: Plastic bottles, containers.
Brown Bin:
Typically used for: Garden waste or organic waste in some regions.
Examples: Leaves, branches, grass clippings.
Grey or Black Bin:
Typically used for: General waste or residual waste.
Examples: Non-recyclable items, mixed waste.
Red Bin:
Typically used for: Hazardous waste or, in some places, plastics.
Examples: Batteries, paint, chemicals.
White Bin:
Typically used for: Medical or clinical waste.
Examples: Used bandages, syringes.
Orange Bin:
Used in some places for specific types of packaging or hazardous waste.
Purple Bin:
Used in some places for glass or e-waste.
Keep in mind that these are just generalizations, and the exact use for each color can vary depending on local regulations. Consult your local municipality or waste management company about your area's waste sorting procedures.
Tips for keeping your dirty trash bins clean
Here are five tips for keeping trash bins clean in order to prevent the proliferation of bacteria and unpleasant odors.
1. Regularly clean your bins
Get your trash bin clean once a month. Empty it and spray it with a hose. Then scrub it with a long-handled brush with a mixture of warm water and mild detergent.
Rinse it well and let it dry completely before using it again. You can also kill harmful bacteria with a disinfectant or vinegar and water.
2. Hire a trash bin cleaning company
That first tip sounds like a real pain in the butt, right? That’s why there are now trash bin cleaning services like Beauty and The Bins that will clean your dirty bins for you.
Here’s how it works:
Book our trash bin cleaning service online.
You leave your bin curbside after trash day.
Joe, the owner, comes and cleans your bin on your scheduled day.
And that’s it!
Beauty and The Bins will deep clean, sanitize, and deodorize your trash bins using an eco-friendly cleaning process. We’ll also power wash the exterior of your cans to keep them sparkling clean.
We can ensure that your bins are not only clean but also hygienic. Current service areas are around the Prescott, Arizona region.
3. Use liners
Keep your trash bin clean by using a liner or bag inside. This will prevent waste from getting directly in contact with the bin's surface. Make sure the bag fits properly and is strong enough to avoid tears or leaks.
4. Drain liquid waste
When disposing of liquid waste, drain any excess liquid before throwing it away. Wrap wet waste in old newspapers or use compostable bags if you want to avoid leaks and foul odors.
5. Store bins in a cool, dry place
A cooler, drier location helps prevent foul odors, maggots, and bacterial growth. If possible, keep your trash bins in a shaded or covered area.
By following these tips, you can keep your trash bins cleaner, more hygienic, and free from foul odors.
Are you looking for someone to clean your dirty bins in Prescott? Send Joe and Victoria a message today at hi@beautyandthebins.com or call them at (928) 463-6193.
One-time cleaning for $45.
One wash every month at $25 per wash.
One wash bi-monthly at $30 per wash.
One wash quarterly at $35 per wash.
