Whether your wheelie bin reeks of last week’s leftovers or you’re tired of battling bacteria and flies, a clean bin is more than just a luxury — it’s essential. In this guide, the bin cleaning experts at Bin Envy (serving London & Surrey) reveal how to clean a wheelie bin step-by-step, the best detergents to use, and how to keep it smelling fresh.
✅ Prefer to leave it to the professionals? Use our bin cleaning price calculator or message us on WhatsApp — we’ll take care of it for you.
Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your Wheelie Bin
1. Empty the Bin Completely
Make sure your bin is totally empty. Tip out loose debris and rinse it quickly with a hose if needed.
2. Use Boiling (But Safe) Water
Boiling water helps loosen grime and kill bacteria. Pour it in carefully.
⚠️ Avoid pouring boiling water directly onto frozen plastic in winter as it can crack.
3. Scrub With a Bin-Friendly Detergent
Use a long-handled brush and a disinfectant or degreasing solution. Good bin cleaning detergents include:
-
Disinfectant + washing-up liquid
-
Vinegar & baking soda combo (eco-friendly)
-
Specialised bin cleaner
-
Bleach (for tough mould, use cautiously)
Can You Use Vinegar to Clean a Bin?
Yes! Mix one part vinegar with two parts warm water in a spray bottle. Spray generously and let sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing. Vinegar kills bacteria, neutralises smells, and is safe for the environment.
Can I Use Bleach in a Wheelie Bin?
You can — but dilute it properly. Use 1 part bleach to 5 parts water, wear gloves, and rinse thoroughly. It’s effective at killing mould and odour-causing bacteria but can damage plants if poured on grass or down storm drains.
How to Remove Bad Smells from a Wheelie Bin
Bad smells come from bacteria and residue. Here’s how to beat the stink:
-
Clean regularly (every 4 weeks is ideal)
-
Use scented bin liners
-
Add a sprinkle of baking soda after each empty
-
Drop in a cotton wool ball soaked in essential oil under the bin liner
💡 Want a bin that smells fresh all year? Book a monthly bin cleaning service with Bin Envy and we’ll handle it for you.
Dealing With Mould in a Bin
Mould thrives in warm, damp, dark bins. To remove it:
-
Scrub with bleach or white vinegar
-
Let sit for 10 minutes
-
Rinse with boiling water
-
Dry the bin thoroughly in sunlight
What Detergent Is Best for Cleaning Bins?
The best options include:
-
Zoflora (antibacterial and scented)
-
Fairy Liquid + disinfectant
-
Vinegar & bicarbonate soda
-
Commercial bin cleaner sprays
-
Bleach (for heavy-duty jobs)
How Do I Stop My Indoor Bin from Smelling?
Indoor bins are just as guilty! Here’s how to prevent odour:
-
Empty daily
-
Wash weekly with warm soapy water
-
Sprinkle baking soda at the bottom
-
Use a bin deodoriser disc or essential oils
Should You Clean Your Bin Yourself or Use a Service?
While DIY bin cleaning is possible, it’s messy, time-consuming, and waste water must be responsibly disposed of. Our Bin Envy van-mounted cleaning system:
-
Deep cleans with high-pressure jets
-
Kills bacteria & neutralises smells
-
Collects and filters dirty water
-
Uses eco-friendly, approved products
Why Choose Bin Envy?
✅ Fully licensed & insured
✅ Residential & commercial bin cleaning
✅ Online booking & price calculator
✅ WhatsApp support
✅ Coverage across London & Surrey
Areas We Serve
We clean bins across London and Surrey including:
London Areas: Croydon, Wimbledon, Wandsworth, Sutton, Clapham, Bromley, Richmond, Kingston, Mitcham, Tooting, Balham, and more.
Surrey Areas: Epsom, Guildford, Leatherhead, Redhill, Reigate, Dorking, Caterham, Banstead, and beyond.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your wheelie bin clean doesn’t just eliminate odour — it protects your health and prevents pests. Whether you tackle it yourself or prefer our professional service, regular cleaning is key.
Get a Fast Quote Now
Use our bin cleaning price calculator or send us a message on WhatsApp. We’re trusted across London & Surrey to keep bins spotless and fresh.