Florida heat + humidity = the perfect storm inside your garbage can
The Problem Isn’t the Trash — It’s the Bin
Most people take the trash out regularly but forget to clean the actual container. In Florida’s July heat, the inside of your trash bin becomes a mini greenhouse for:
- Bacteria
- Mold spores
- Fruit fly eggs
- Maggots and larvae
- Odors that cling to plastic walls
Plastic absorbs smells quickly — especially from meat juices, dairy, or wet organic waste.
What Makes July Worse?
- High humidity keeps the bin damp, even after you remove the bag
- More outdoor dining = more food waste
- Guests and kids might not tie bags properly or overfill the bin
- Flies multiply faster and lay eggs in minutes if the lid is left open
Even a few hours in this environment can lead to larval activity — especially if your trash pickup is once a week.
Signs Your Trash Bin Needs Cleaning
- Sour or rotten smell, even with a fresh bag
- Greasy or sticky residue inside the bin
- Black mold spots or discoloration
- Fruit flies hanging around the kitchen
- Smell returning quickly after you take out the garbage
How to Clean It Properly
- Take the bin outside
- Rinse thoroughly with a hose or in the shower if small
- Scrub with a mix of warm water + dish soap + a splash of white vinegar
- Let sit for 10–15 minutes
- Rinse again and let it dry in the sun
For tough smells: sprinkle baking soda inside and let it sit overnight.
How to Keep It Clean Between Washes
- Always double-bag raw meat or seafood waste
- Tie bags tightly
- Keep the lid closed
- Place newspaper or baking soda at the bottom to absorb moisture
- Use a small fan or dehumidifier in enclosed kitchens
