How do you recommend cleaning the interior of a public trashcan to keep it sanitary?

Let's be honest, nobody loves this job. But keeping a public trash can clean isn't just about removing the visible gunk; it's a vital act of public health service. Think of it as giving the community's unsung hero a much-needed spa day. Here’s my recommended protocol to do it right.

First, safety is your suit of armor. Suit up with heavy-duty rubber gloves, protective eyewear, and a mask. Your tools? A sturdy scraper, a long-handled scrub brush, a hose with a spray nozzle (a pressure washer is ideal for deep cleans), a bucket, a dedicated disinfectant cleaner (EPA-registered is best), and heavy-duty trash bags.

Now, for the main event. Start by removing all interior trash, scraping out any stubborn debris stuck to the bottom and sides. Next, give the bin a thorough pre-rinse with water to loosen grime. Then, it's scrub-a-dub time. Fill your bucket with hot water and the recommended amount of disinfectant. Scrub every surface vigorously—sides, lid, rim, and especially that often-forgotten bottom. Let the disinfectant solution sit for the contact time specified on the label; this is when it wages war on germs.

After the dwell time, rinse the can completely until all cleaning residue is gone. This is crucial. The final, non-negotiable step is to let it air dry completely before putting in a new liner. Trapped moisture is a breeding ground for bacteria, undoing all your hard work. For optimal hygiene, establish and stick to a regular cleaning schedule. Your community's health—and nostrils—will thank you.