Bin Hygiene: Eliminating Odours and Bacteria from Outdoor Waste Containers

When it comes to household cleanliness, the wheelie bin is often overlooked, until the smell becomes impossible to ignore. Whether it’s general waste, food scraps, or garden clippings, unclean bins can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria, pests, and unpleasant odours.

In this blog, we’ll show you how to clean a wheelie bin effectively, using eco-friendly, non-toxic cleaning solutions like Bio-D Home & Garden Cleaner and Bio-D All Purpose Sanitiser. With the right approach and products, your bins can be clean, fresh, and hygienic year round, without harming the environment.

Why Regular Bin Cleaning Matters

Outdoor waste bins are exposed to moisture, food waste, and the elements, making them a perfect habitat for germs and fungi. The build-up of “bin juice”, the sticky, foul smelling liquid that gathers at the bottom, poses a serious hygiene risk and leads to stubborn odours that are difficult to eliminate.

Routine cleaning is essential to:

• Prevent harmful bacteria from multiplying
• Eliminate unpleasant odours
• Prolong the life of your bin

By using Bio-D’s powerful yet biodegradable cleaners, you can tackle these issues effectively without resorting to harsh chemicals or bleach.

What You’ll Need: Cleaning Supplies & Protective Gear

Before you begin, gather the following items:

Essential Cleaning Products:

• Bio-D Home & Garden Cleaner (available in 750ml and 5L refill)
  Designed for outdoor and heavy-duty tasks, this cleaner cuts through grime and “bin juice” without harming plants or animals.
• Bio-D All Purpose Sanitiser (available in 500ml and 5L)
  Neutralises 99.9% of harmful bacteria and viruses while being safe and non-toxic.

Tools & Equipment:

• Stiff-bristled long-handled brush or broom
• Bucket or hose with spray attachment
• Protective gloves
• Face mask (optional, but helpful for strong odours)
• Microfibre cloth or sponge for external wiping

Tip: Use the 5L refill bottles to top up your smaller spray bottles. It’s a cost-effective and sustainable habit that reduces plastic waste.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your Wheelie Bin

1. Empty and Rinse

• Wait until bin collection day so the container is empty.
• Rinse the inside with a hose to remove loose debris and residue.

2. Apply Bio-D Home & Garden Cleaner

• Dilute according to label instructions (or apply directly for tough jobs).
• Pour or spray into the base and scrub all interior surfaces using your brush.
• Be sure to scrub under the lid and around the rim, where bacteria and flies often gather.

3. Tackle Stubborn Residue

• For dried or sticky messes, let the cleaner sit for 5–10 minutes before scrubbing again.
• For deeply ingrained “bin juice” stains, use undiluted Bio-D Home & Garden Cleaner and a heavy-duty brush.

4. Rinse Thoroughly

• Use your hose to rinse all residue out of the bin. Tilt the bin to drain any excess water.

5. Sanitise

• Spray all surfaces with Bio-D All Purpose Sanitiser to kill lingering bacteria and neutralise odours.
• Leave to air dry, this allows the sanitiser to continue working as it evaporates.

External Cleaning & Odour Prevention

Once the inside is clean, don’t forget the exterior:

• Wipe down handles, lid edges and foot pedals with a cloth and Bio-D All Purpose Sanitiser.
• Avoid leaving the bin in direct sunlight as this accelerates decomposition and odour formation.
• For extra freshness, sprinkle bicarbonate of soda or add a few drops of essential oil to the bin base after cleaning.

Refilling: A Greener Clean

Bio-D’s range is designed with sustainability in mind. The 5L refill bottles of Home & Garden Cleaner and All Purpose Sanitiser allow you to:

• Cut down on single-use plastic
• Save money over time
• Always have cleaner ready for deep-cleaning sessions

Refilling your existing spray bottles at home is quick and simple. You can even set up a mini refill station in your utility room or garden shed.

Seasonal Cleaning Schedule

To keep your bins fresh year-round, follow this simple seasonal schedule:

Spring/Summer (every 2–3 weeks):

• Higher temperatures accelerate bacteria growth and fly activity. Clean more frequently.

Autumn/Winter (every 4–6 weeks):

• Cold weather slows decay, but rainwater and leaves can still create mess and mould. Keep up regular cleans.

Add bin cleaning to your garden maintenance or household chore calendar to stay on track.

Why Choose Bio-D?

Bio-D is a UK-based brand committed to environmentally responsible cleaning. All products are:

• Vegan and cruelty-free
• Made from plant-based ingredients
• Free from synthetic chemicals and fragrances
• Safe for septic tanks, pets and wildlife
• Available in recyclable and refillable packaging

By choosing Bio-D, you’re not just cleaning, you’re helping protect the planet.

Cleaning your wheelie bin doesn’t have to be a dreaded task. With the right products and a simple routine, you can maintain hygienic, odour-free bins that don’t attract pests or pose health risks.

Bio-D Home & Garden Cleaner and All Purpose Sanitiser are tough on dirt but gentle on the planet and with 5L refill options, it’s never been easier to clean responsibly.

So, the next time you catch a whiff from the bins, you’ll know exactly what to do, naturally.