Trash compactors are loud because they squeeze all your trash into a small bundle. But if it starts making sounds like terrible screaming, it could mean trouble. Clean your trash compactor once or twice a month to stop these loud noises.
What’s in it for you?
- Less spread of mildew and mold
- More powerful trash compactor
- Quieter operation
Cleaning Your Trash Compactor Step-by-Step
Be safe. Put on rubber gloves to avoid touching the trash and unplug the trash compactor. It’s unlikely to turn on by itself, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Empty the trash compactor. When you use the trash compactor, it squashes the trash and puts it in a bag at the bottom. Find and remove this bag. Make sure to pick up any loose trash inside the machine to prevent bacteria or mold.
Clean the inside walls. Spray the inside of the compactor with a pH-neutral cleaner and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, use a microfiber cloth to wipe away all the grime, like stains, mold, and mildew. This prevents damage to the motor.
Wash the air filter. Locate the air filter above the bag and gently pull it out. Clean it by rinsing it under hot water. Check for any damage and replace it if it’s more than a year old.
Replace the trash bag. After cleaning, put a new trash bag in. Shut the trash compactor and clean the outside too, to make sure no leftover dirt gets back inside.
Pro Tip: Add a disinfectant like baking soda every time you use your trash compactor. It will get rid of odors and, more importantly, prevent bacteria and mold that can damage the compactor.