The Dirty Truth About Your Trash Bins

We all know trash bins can get a little… unpleasant. But did you know that grime and odor are more than just an unsightly nuisance? There's a lot more going on in your trash cans than meets the eye (or nose!), and understanding these hidden dangers can help you make a better choice for your home and the environment.

The Unseen World: Bacteria and Disease Lurking in Your Bins

DID YOU KNOW? Dirty trash cans are not just unsightly and smelly, they harbor a multitude of bacteria, including Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria, which can cause illness if transferred to humans. Furthermore, they attract pests like flies, maggots, and rodents, which can spread diseases and contaminate living spaces. These aren't just minor annoyances; they represent real health risks to your family and pets.

To put it in perspective, DID YOU KNOW, a dirty trash bin is 1,000 times more contaminated with bacteria than your toilet seat and handle! A 2011-2012 study of acute care hospitals found over 10,000 distinctive microorganisms in trash bins and dumpsters. This staggering fact highlights the sheer volume and variety of microscopic life thriving in what you might consider just a "dirty bin."

The Dangers of DIY: Bleach and Environmental Harm

When faced with a dirty trash can, many of us reach for the garden hose and some household cleaners, perhaps even bleach, thinking we're doing a good job. But this common practice comes with its own set of risks.

 

DID YOU KNOW? Bleach is a powerful disinfectant and cleaning agent, but it also poses several dangers if not handled properly. Mixing bleach with other chemicals like ammonia or acids can create dangerous toxic gases, such as chlorine gas, which can be extremely harmful if inhaled. Beyond immediate personal safety, bleach also pollutes waterways and the environment due to its toxicity and potential to create harmful byproducts, such as chloroform and dioxins, when it enters the ecosystem.

And it's not just bleach. DID YOU KNOW,  using a hose and household cleaners to wash your garbage bins can harm the environment! That dirty, bacteria-filled runoff doesn't just disappear... it flows into storm drains then into our rivers, lakes, and oceans carrying harmful chemicals and waste with it.

  • Standard cleaners often contain toxins
  • Runoff can pollute marine life habitats
  • Bacteria & trash residue spread through waterways

This means your attempt to clean your bins could inadvertently be contributing to environmental pollution and harming aquatic life.

The Fresh Water Bins Difference: Clean, Safe, and Eco-Friendly

This is where Fresh Water Bins comes in. We understand the "dirty truth" about trash cans and the importance of a thorough, safe, and environmentally responsible cleaning solution.

 

That's why Fresh Water Bins complies with the Clean Water Act of 1972. We use the power of steam with zero harmful runoff. We capture and properly dispose of all wastewater.

 

By choosing Fresh Water Bins, you're not just getting a clean bin; you're ensuring:

 

  • A healthier home: Eliminating disease-carrying bacteria and pests.
  • Personal safety: Avoiding the risks associated with handling harsh chemicals.
  • Environmental responsibility: Preventing harmful runoff from polluting our precious waterways.

 

Don't risk your health or the environment trying to tackle this dirty job yourself. Let Fresh Water Bins handle it professionally, efficiently, and responsibly.

 

Connect with Us!

@FreshWaterBins

(727) 558-9874

April 15, 2025
In the past, cleaning your trash bins was a chore, often involving a hose, a scrub brush, and plenty of elbow grease. Fast forward to today, and you’ll find an exciting industry of professional trash bin cleaning services like Fresh Water Bins. Let’s discover the evolution of trash bin cleaning, from the humble do-it-yourself methods to the rise of dedicated professionals.
November 18, 2024
Dirty trash bins don’t just smell bad—they can lead to pest infestations, spread harmful bacteria, and affect the overall air quality in your home. Scheduling a regular, professional trash bin cleaning service with Fresh Water Bins can help stop the growth of mold, bacteria, and foul odors. For the best results, we recommend setting up a monthly or quarterly cleaning plan for your residential garbage bin and recycling bins. Here’s why: