Why Put Bicarbonate of Soda in the Bottom of the Bin?

Putting bicarbonate of soda in the bottom of the bin is a straightforward way to reduce moisture and manage some of the odours created by household waste. The powder is not a fragrance: it can react with certain acidic compounds behind bad smells and helps keep the base of the container drier. This is particularly useful on hot days, when food scraps spoil more quickly.

What is the purpose of putting bicarbonate in the bottom of the bin?

Bicarbonate of soda mainly supports odour control. As a mildly alkaline substance, it can neutralise some acidic compounds found in waste and reduce their volatility. The powder can also take up small amounts of moisture that reach the bottom of the bin through bin-bag leaks or condensation.

This makes it more effective as a preventative measure than as a way to mask a bin that is already very dirty. Built-up organic waste still needs to be removed, and the container should be washed whenever there are liquids, grease or stuck-on residue.

• Helps control some odours;
• Absorbs small amounts of moisture;
• Reduces smells without adding an intense fragrance;
• Can make maintenance easier between washes.

Why does hot weather make bin smells stronger?

Higher temperatures speed up various chemical reactions and encourage microorganisms to act on food leftovers. Peelings, meat, sauces, fruit and other organic waste release volatile compounds more quickly, allowing the smell to spread through the room. That is why a kitchen bin can develop an odour far faster on hot days.

How should the powder be used without making a mess?

Once you have emptied and cleaned the bin, allow the inside to dry, then sprinkle a thin layer of bicarbonate of soda directly over the bottom before fitting a fresh bag. There is no need for a thick coating: a small amount is enough to come into contact with any drops that escape from the bag and with the air in the lower section of the container.

You can replace the powder once a week or whenever the bin is washed, although the required frequency depends on how it is used. A household that throws away a lot of wet waste may need more frequent cleaning, whereas bins used solely for dry packaging are unlikely to need the same level of care.

• Wash the bin if liquid or dirt has collected inside;
• Wait until the bottom is dry before adding the powder;
• Apply only a thin layer;
• Put the bag over the bicarbonate as usual;
• Replace the product after the next clean.

Does bicarbonate of soda replace washing the bin?

No. Bicarbonate of soda helps control smells, but it does not remove food remnants, biofilm, grease or liquids that have leaked from the bag. If dirt is stuck to the bin, wash the container with water and washing-up liquid, rinse it and dry it before fitting a new bag.

• Empty the bin before it overflows;
• Do not allow liquids to collect in the bottom;
• Keep food waste securely contained;
• Wash the lid, edges and inner walls when they are dirty;
• Do not mix different cleaning products inside the bin.

Why does this bicarbonate of soda trick work better before the smell becomes strong?

The benefit of this method lies in addressing the conditions that encourage bad odours from the outset. At the bottom of the bin, the powder comes into contact with small amounts of moisture and certain odorous compounds before they build up to a concentration high enough to take over the kitchen.

The result also depends on basic household cleaning habits. Changing the bag regularly, removing organic waste at the end of the day when needed and keeping the container dry remain more important than any single product. Bicarbonate of soda complements this routine by helping to control moisture and some of the smell, rather than simply covering it with fragrance.