I hate the unpleasant smells that come from trash cans. A foul odor can make an otherwise clean kitchen feel dirty and uninviting.
The good news is that you can make an effective homemade trash can deodorizing spray with a few simple, natural ingredients. Combine them in a spray bottle with essential oils, shake, and spray. Odors are neutralized quickly, and the spray continues to work—helping to reduce bacteria and keep trash cans smelling fresh for days.
This spray works well in kitchen trash cans, outdoor bins, diaper pails, and bathroom waste baskets. Just a few quick sprays before adding a new bag will remove lingering smells and leave your home smelling cleaner.
How to make garbage can deodorizing spray with essential oils
Step 1: Add 2 tablespoons vinegar to a 4 ounce spray bottle
Tip: Use a spray bottle that is safe with essential oils—glass and stainless steel are ideal, and some plastics (PET #1 or HDPE #2) are compatible.
Tip: This recipe is written for a 4 ounce bottle, but you can scale it to a larger size if desired.
Step 2: Add essential oils
7 drops peppermint essential oil
10 drops orange essential oil
10 drops lemon essential oil
Tip: If you don’t have these exact oils or prefer another scent, substitute with oils that offer antibacterial or antimicrobial benefits, such as tea tree, lavender, eucalyptus, rosemary, tangerine, or lime.
Step 3: Fill the 4 ounce bottle with distilled water
Tip: Leave a little space at the top so the bottle won’t overflow when you replace the spray top.
Tip: If using a larger bottle, add about 1/3 cup (roughly 2.7 ounces) of distilled water per 4 ounce portion of the recipe.
Tip: If you don’t have distilled water, boiled and cooled filtered water will work.
Step 4: Put the spray top on the bottle and add a label
Tip: For a durable label, print on regular paper and secure it with clear packing tape to make it water-resistant. You can also use full-sheet label paper if you prefer.
Tip: Wipe the bottle with a little rubbing alcohol before applying the label to ensure a clean, dry surface for good adhesion.
Recipe summary
- Add 2 tablespoons vinegar to a 4 ounce spray bottle.
- Add the essential oils: 7 drops peppermint, 10 drops orange, and 10 drops lemon.
- Fill the 4 ounce bottle with distilled water, leaving a little space at the top.
- Secure the spray top and label the bottle.
How to use
- Shake well before each use.
- Spray the inside of the trash can 3–4 times.
- Allow a few seconds to air dry.
- Add a new trash bag.
- Repeat each time you change the bag for ongoing freshness.
More natural cleaning recipes you might like:
Trash Can Deodorizer Tabs
DIY dusting spray
All-surface floor cleaner
Mold & mildew spray
Toilet cleaning fizzies
Homemade shower cleaner
Natural dishwasher detergent
Homemade “Lysol” disinfecting spray
Streak-free window & mirror spray
Kitchen & bathroom cleaning wipes
Stainless steel polish
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Please note: Products mentioned in this article have not been evaluated by the FDA. The information on this page is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Always consult your healthcare provider for medical advice. Never disregard professional guidance or delay seeking care because of something you read here.
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