How to Clean Storage and Moving Bins

Cleaning your moving and storage bins might not be the most glamorous task, but it’s definitely worth it. Whether you’re getting ready for a big move, tidying up your garage, or just doing a deep clean, having fresh, clean bins can make a big difference.

In today's article, we'll walk you through the easiest and most effective ways to clean your bins.

What Moving and Storage Bins?

Storage bins come in different sizes that are used to store toys, books, decorations for the New Year or Easter, and seasonal clothes and shoes. Ordinary plastic or collapsible plastic boxes are often used because they are light, durable, and affordable. You can also use wooden storage boxes, which, in addition to being practical and durable, can beautify your room's look.

Moving bins are used to move items during a move to a new home or a storage unit. They can be ordinary metal or plastic folding boxes. Metal boxes are stronger, more expensive than plastic boxes, and last longer. In any case, they must be clean so that your belongings are not damaged.

Why You Should Clean the Bins

Cleaning and maintaining bins is important to keep your items clean. Bins can be dirty and full of dust, which can make your belongings dirty and cause an unpleasant smell. Cleaning the bins is also important because of the following:

• Reducing the risk of disease.
• It improves the appearance and tidiness of the place where the bins are.
• Clean bins have a longer service.
• Clean bins are easier to maintain.

Storage and Moving Bins Cleaning Supplies

Before cleaning the bins, ensure you have enough space and the necessary supplies. This includes the following:

• Warm water
• Rubber gloves
• Bibs and rags
• Washing detergent
• Brushes, big and small
• Vinegar or baking soda
• Towel for easy wiping.

‍Bin Cleaning Procedure

Before cleaning, throw everything out of the bin. If the bin has a lid, take it off so you can clean every part nicely. Then take a sponge and detergent and rub the inside of the bucket with warm water. If there are hard-reach places, use an old toothbrush.

When done cleaning, rinse the bin carefully so there are no soapy water remains inside. If the weather is sunny, you can leave the bucket outside to dry, and if it rains, take a towel and wipe the bin inside and out.

If after washing the bucket, you still notice an unpleasant smell, you can use baking soda or vinegar to neutralize the smell. After using these products, be sure to rinse and dry the bucket once more.

Don't forget to wash the lid as well, because it can be as dirty as the bucket. Wash and dry it in the same way as the bucket.

Cleaning Special Bins

There are several types of moving and storage bins that require special cleaning and maintenance. For this reason, it is important to pay attention to the following:

-Metal bins rust, and for this reason, after cleaning, they should be dried and wiped, it would be good to spray anti-rust spray to protect the box.

-Wooden boxes are also popular when it comes to storage because they provide a nice choice no matter where you put them. But to maintain their appearance and usability, they should be properly cleaned and maintained. For wooden bins, it is important to apply protective oil or wax after cleaning to protect the wood.

-Plastic bins are easier to clean and maintain, but you should take care not to use sharp brushes because the boxes can be damaged.

How to Keep Bins Clean

Whether you use bins for storage, transport, or decoration, it's important to take good care of them. Keep bins in dry and ventilated areas to prevent moisture buildup that can lead to mold and rust.

It's a good idea to use wrapping paper or cling film to further protect items inside from dust and dirt. It is also wise to check the bins to spot possible damage and clean it on time.

Cleaning Items First

It is also important and advisable to wash or wipe down the items you plan to put in the bins. Clean and washed items prevent the spread of bacteria, fungi, and unpleasant odors.

This is especially important if you intend to store items for a long period. Dust and dirt can damage your items and leave an unpleasant smell in the bin.

There are several ways to clean different items, such as:

• When it comes to clothing and footwear, wash and dry everything thoroughly before packing it in the bins.  
• Wipe down electronic devices to remove dust, and remove batteries to prevent leakage due to heat.
• Wash and dry dishes and kitchen utensils thoroughly to prevent mold or rust from developing in the bin

Cleaning items before storing or moving them in bins will help maintain the hygiene of your belongings and the bins themselves.

Additional Tips

If you want the items inside the bins to smell nice, you can add a few drops of essential oils to a rag and wipe down the inside after washing it.

If you have a lot of bins, you can label each one to make it easier to find what you need.

Leave the clean bins open so that they can air out; that way, you will prevent an unpleasant smell.

Conclusion

Cleaning the transport and storage bins is not difficult, but it is very important not only for you and your belongings but also for the environment. That's why regular cleaning and maintenance of bins should not be an obligation but something basic and important so that your items are clean and ready for use. In this blog, we tried to explain to you how to clean and maintain your bins in the best way.

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