Bicarbonate of Soda in the Bin: A Simple Trick to Reduce Odours

Bicarbonate of soda is one of the most versatile ingredients for household cleaning, and one of its best-known uses is odour control. That is why many people have started sprinkling a spoonful of bicarbonate into the bottom of the bin before fitting a fresh liner. The idea is straightforward, low-cost, and can help cut down unpleasant smells caused by organic waste over several days.

How does bicarbonate help reduce bad smells?

A large share of bin odours comes from the breakdown of food scraps and the moisture that gathers at the bottom of the container. Bicarbonate of soda helps neutralise some of these smells, rather than simply covering them up with fragrance.

It can also soak up part of the moisture that collects inside the bin, making it harder for the liquids that intensify unpleasant odours to build up.

How to use bicarbonate in the bin

The method is very simple and takes only a few seconds. Before putting in a new bin liner, spread one tablespoon of bicarbonate of soda across the bottom of the bin.

Whenever you change the liner, take the chance to quickly wipe out the container and apply a fresh layer of the product.

• Clean the inside of the bin
• Dry the container completely
• Put one tablespoon of bicarbonate in the bottom
• Fit the bin liner as usual
• Reapply the bicarbonate each time you change the liner
• Give the bin a thorough clean regularly

What other ingredients can boost this trick?

Some people add a few drops of lemon, lavender, or eucalyptus essential oil to the bicarbonate to create a more pleasant scent. Another option is to place a small piece of kitchen roll over the bicarbonate before positioning the bin liner, which helps keep the powder settled at the bottom.

It is also important to avoid leaving organic waste to build up for many days, especially in warmer periods, when decomposition happens faster.

• Change the bin liner frequently
• Clean the bin weekly
• Dry the container after washing
• Avoid letting liquids pool
• Throw away food leftovers promptly
• Use bicarbonate whenever you change the liner

Is it worth using bicarbonate in the bin?

If you want a simple, inexpensive solution, bicarbonate can be a helpful ally in your cleaning routine. While it does not remove the need to sanitise the bin regularly, it does help manage odours in between cleans.

Used alongside good hygiene habits, this ingredient can make the room feel fresher and reduce the need for dedicated air fresheners.

A small habit that can make a difference in the kitchen

Adding a spoonful of bicarbonate to the bottom of the bin takes less than a minute and can help keep the kitchen more pleasant. When paired with frequent rubbish changes and periodic cleaning of the container, this simple trick helps reduce bad smells without relying on expensive products.

With a few basic steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you can keep the bin cleaner and the kitchen free of unpleasant odours for longer.

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