Sometimes what's on the outside really does matter.
When it comes to a truly fresh home, don't overlook what's just outside your door. Between heat, humidity, and the contents inside, your outdoor garbage bins can easily become a breeding ground for unpleasant smells.
But odor control shouldn’t be complicated. That’s why Azuna’s tea tree oil-powered products take on the toughest smells, like those from bacteria and ammonia, without harsh chemicals. That means more natural freshness—and smells that stop before they spread.
What Causes Garbage Can Odors?
The Role of Organic Waste and Weather
Odors in your outdoor garbage cans are most commonly caused by decomposing organic materials—think food scraps, yard waste, and pet waste.
Because they're exposed to the elements (heat, moisture) those materials break down quickly. That process releases the strong odors you probably associate with an overflowing bin. And, without being addressed, those smells can easily spread to patios, garages, or even your home's entryways.
How Odors Spread Outdoors
Odor molecules are microscopic and easily carried through the air. Everything from a light breeze to just opening your garbage can's lid can cause them to spread. That means your outdoor space can quickly start smelling like, well, the worst parts of it.
The solution is twofold: a quick clean and a dependable outdoor garbage can odor eliminator that tackles odors at their source, not just on the surface.
Reliable Steps to Eliminate Garbage Can Odors
Here's what we recommend:
A Naturally Fresh Cleaning Spray
Our tea tree oil-based cleaning and freshening sprays deliver odor control that goes beyond indoor spaces.
They're easy to use: just mix one concentrate vial with water, shake, and spray. And they're multi-use, so they're perfect for both cleaning and freshening. Wipe down your bin when you're done or, for heavier messes, rinse with a garden hose. You can add a final mist inside your empty bin and let it air dry.
A Reusable, Refillable Gel Pod for Comprehensive Coverage
Our long-lasting gels are versatile, so they're actually able to be used outdoors, too. We recommend placing one pod from our Small Room Duo near your cleaned garbage bins.
The plastic pod is durable and refillable, so you can refresh as needed. The gel inside works with the natural airflow to eliminate odors continuously. And, because our products are non-toxic and free from harsh chemicals, they're safe for use around pets, kids, and shared spaces when used as directed.
How to Keep Garbage Can Odors From Coming Back
Prevention is just as important. We've found a few simple strategies that help keep your bins clean and fresh.
Bag Waste Properly
Make sure all trash is properly sealed before you toss it into your garbage can. This helps prevent leaks, spills, and unwanted exposure to air and moisture—three key contributors to odor.
Dry Your Bins After Washing
Moisture is a major factor in odor buildup. After a heavy rain, or after rinsing out your garbage can, let it air dry. Moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth, which can be difficult to eradicate.
Close the Lid Tightly
A tightly sealed lid helps trap odors and keeps pests out. It also minimizes exposure to rain and heat, both of which can make smells worse.
Maintain Your Outdoor Trash Area
Don’t just focus on the bin itself—keep the area around it clean, too. Remove any dropped waste or debris that can contribute to unpleasant smells.
Simple Maintenance for Odor-Free Trash Bins
Keeping your trash area fresh doesn’t require complicated routines. With regular attention and a few naturally fresh fixes, it’s easy to keep unpleasant smells under control.
How Often Should You Clean Your Trash Can, Anyways?
We recommend giving your outdoor garbage can a quick clean at least once a month.
A thorough rinse and wipe-down with a mild, non-toxic cleaner can loosen any debris and prevent future odors.
Use Products Designed to Neutralize, Not Mask
Azuna’s cleaners and fresheners are designed to eliminate odors—not just cover them up. That’s what makes them ideal for outdoor areas where strong smells can otherwise linger.
