One of the most unpleasant experiences is being hit by a pungent odor. And one of the most frustrating experiences is a trash can that smells no matter how many times you empty it. To make things worse, a commonly encountered problem is a smelly bathroom trash can.
Now, this is something that you definitely do not want in your home. But why does it happen? What causes the trash bags in your bathroom to smell? In this blog, we’ll explore the reasons behind smelly bathroom trash bags and how to address the issue.
Why Does My Bathroom Trash Bags Smell?
Moisture
One of the biggest causes of smelly bathroom trash bags is moisture. Bathrooms are naturally humid, and moisture can accumulate in the trash can. This moisture then begins to foster bacteria, which causes a smell.
You’ll be able to tell that the bacteria are building up if you notice a white film at the bottom of your trash can. The solution to this problem is to make sure that your trash bags completely dry out. Remove any lingering dampness in the trash can by wiping it out with a dry cloth.
Food Waste
Another reason your bathroom trash bags smell is due to food waste. Toothpaste tubes and packaging, empty toilet paper rolls, or used cotton swabs, among other things, can all accumulate in the trash.
If you leave it for too long, the food or organic matter will decay in the plastic bag, causing odors. To reduce the odor from food or organic matter, you need to take the trash out more frequently.
Perfumed Products
There are some things in your bathroom that have really strong fruity or flowery scents that can cause a clash with the odor of the garbage. Bath oils, perfumes, and soaps, for example, can interact with the odor and result in an unpleasant smell.
Although it may be tempting to use air fresheners or deodorizers to remove the smell, it’s usually better to avoid using scented products altogether. Instead, dispose of the trash and other tissues in the trash can regularly.
Incorrect Trash Bag Choice
The type of trash bags you use can play a huge role in determining whether or not your bathroom trash bin smells. Biodegradable or compostable garbage bags are suited for food waste.
If you’re not disposing of food waste in your bathroom trash, then these may not be the best choice. You should select a plastic trash bag that has odor-blocking properties so that strong smells from the bin cannot make it out.
Poor Ventilation
Finally, a lack of ventilation can also cause a smell in your trash bag. Ensure that the lid of your trash bin isn’t airtight and the room is regularly ventilated so that a buildup of moisture in the bathroom is prevented.
How Do I Stop My Bathroom Trash From Smelling?
Use a Trash Can with a Lid
The first step to keeping your bathroom trash smelling fresh is to invest in a trash can with a lid. This will help to contain any unpleasant smells and prevent them from spreading throughout the room. A lid also helps to keep debris from falling out of the can and onto the floor.
Line Your Trash Can with a Bag
Another important step is to line your trash can with a plastic bag. This not only helps to keep the trash contained, but also makes taking out the trash much easier. You can purchase scented trash bags to help keep the odor under control, or you can add a drop of essential oil to the bag before lining the can.
Always Empty the Trash Can Before It’s Full
A general rule of thumb is to empty the trash can when it’s around half full. This prevents the odor from becoming too overwhelming and harder to control. Additionally, it makes taking out the trash a quick and painless task.
Clean Your Trash Can Regularly
Cleaning your trash can on a regular basis can go a long way in keeping unpleasant odors at bay. Wipe down the inside of the trash can with a disinfectant cleaner and let it dry completely before replacing the liner. Make sure to focus on the areas where trash typically accumulates, such as the bottom of the can and around the lid.
Consider Adding a Deodorizer
If you’ve tried all the above suggestions and still can’t seem to get rid of the odor, consider using a deodorizer. You can purchase pre-made deodorizing options like an odor-absorbing gel or charcoal bags, or you can create your own with a mixture of baking soda and essential oils. Simply sprinkle the mixture in the bottom of the trash can before adding a new liner.
Conclusion
A smelly bathroom trash bag can be an unpleasant experience, but it is not a problem that cannot be solved. By taking care of the contents of your trash bag, controlling moisture and ventilation, choosing the right type of trash bag, and regularly cleaning your trash can, you can keep your bathroom smelling fresh and clean. Try these tips today and enjoy a pleasant and odor-free bathroom experience.
