Easy 4-Step Guide On How To Get Rid Of Mildew On Trash Bins

Trash bin scents tend to wander from room to room, and that’s why it’s important to learn how to get rid of mildew on trash bins. You may have to track the stench for a while to find the cause, but it’s generally the trash that’s making the whole house smell bad. 

Bad-smelling trash bins attract rats, mosquitoes, cockroaches, flies, and other insects and are an inconvenience. How can you have a nice day at your home if your trash bins smell bad because of mildew? 

This article will focus on cleaning your outdoor and indoor trash bins. 

 

Mildew Vs. Black Mold

Mildew and black mold are two types of fungus found in the home. They thrive in damp settings, spread quickly, and survive on various surfaces, making them extremely tough to eradicate.

However, if unchecked, the hazardous germs may swiftly infiltrate vast portions of your property, causing health concerns and structural damage. While the two fungus forms have many similarities, they represent different hazards and react to treatment differently.

Check this article on how to identify black mold vs mildew to learn more. 

 

What Is the Cause of Mildew Growth in Trash Bins?

A trash bin provides all of the components required for the development of mildew, which includes the following: 

  • Moisture – The waste has a lot of moisture due to food leftovers placed inside. Moisture is crucial for mildew reproduction.
  1. Oxygen supply – Oxygen is present in trash bins. Mildew may develop and create more mold spores, contributing to its spread.
  2. Darkness – Since most of the trash bins are closed, it would create an environment for mildew to flourish.

To avoid mildew development in your trash bins, ensure that these things are avoided. You can ensure that your problem is solved as soon as possible. 

 

How Long Does Mildew Take To Grow?

If you want to act quickly enough to prevent mold from spreading after water damage, you must first understand how mold grows and how quickly it might spread.

Mold may sprout and thrive in as little as 24-48 hours if the proper circumstances of ideal temperature and humidity are met. If your pipe bursts on Monday, the growth will begin on Tuesday. 

However, it is normal for spores to colonize within 3-12 days. Home or building owners will not become aware of the problem until they are between 18 and 21.

 

How Do You Get Mildew Out Of Trash Bins?

Mildew is one of the most unpleasant things a person might encounter in their home. Follow the following steps to solve the growth of the mold. 

 

Step #1. Preparation 

Make sure to empty the container to get rid of any mildew collected. Check that all waste has been removed and that no trash has fallen into the can. 

Prepare at least one of the following cleaning mixtures for the cleaning process. These are some of the most effective cleaning solutions:

  • Vinegar – White vinegar is a slightly acidic cleaning, deodorizing, and disinfecting agent. On porous and non-porous surfaces, it may also destroy 82% of mold species, including black mold.
  • Baking soda – Baking soda has a plethora of purposes around the house, from absorbing aromas in the fridge to treating heartburn — even mildew treatment. Baking soda is safe for your family and pets to use since it not only kills mildew but also absorbs moisture, which mold wants.
  • Hydrogen peroxide – Hydrogen peroxide is a common antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial solution that is also an excellent mildew treatment.
  • Essential Oils – Aromatherapy has become a popular term thanks to essential oils, but these natural chemicals can do more. Tea tree oil is an insect repellent, antibacterial, and deodorizer — and it’s one of the most natural ways to get rid of mildew.
  • Lemons – Lemons are a stain remover, antiseptic, natural deodorizer, antiseptic, bleach, and cleaning that may also be used to eliminate mildew. Lemons’ strong acid content breaks down mold, making it easier to remove and leaving a clean surface behind. 

 

Step #2. Wear personal protective equipment

When cleaning up a tiny mold-infested area, use the least amount of PPE. Goggle or eye protection, N-95 face mask, and gloves are required as minimum PPE. 

Also, disposable clothing is advised. It prevents mildew from being transferred to garments and eliminates skin contact with mold.

 

Step #3. Remove the mildew

To eliminate the mildew, use a stiff cleaning brush with firm bristles to scour all of the surfaces and corners of the bin. Scrub the exterior of the can as well to eliminate any undetected mold spores. 

 

Step #4. Rinse and dry the trash bin

To guarantee that all molds are eliminated, rinse them with warm water. Make careful to completely dry the can to verify that all water has been removed. 

 

How To Avoid Mildew Growth In Trash Bins

The most effective approach to address these issues is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Here are some suggestions to avoid the growth of mold, mildew, and pathogens in your garbage cans.

 

Tip #1. Empty and clean the trash bin

Mildew may form in just a few hours, so always empty the bin before it’s too late to stop mold from spreading and reproducing. When you open it, always clean the container and replace the garbage bags with fresh ones. 

 

Tip #2. Check that the trash bin is dry

Make sure the trash bin is dry. In this way, it will prevent moisture and humidity, which will allow mold to form.

 

Tip #3. Disinfect the trash bin

Check for indications of mold development every time you put trash in the trash bin. If there is mold on the bin surfaces, follow the steps to eliminate the mildew.  

If your trash bin is placed under the sink, check this article on how to get rid of mildew smell under sink so that you can include it when you clean your trash bin! 

 

Conclusion

Mildew may be found on a variety of surfaces. It can create significant damage as they develop, resulting in various health problems that may endanger individuals in a family.

It is crucial to be knowledgeable about the causes and symptoms of mold. This will aid in the prevention of mildew growth in your garbage cans.

Now that you have read this article on how to get rid of mildew on trash bins, you can start cleaning your trash bins at home!