Why You Should be Putting Cotton Balls in Your Trash Can

Charlie Golsley in home living

2/18/25

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Sometimes, the smallest household hacks can make the biggest difference. Placing a cotton ball in your trash can is one of those easy yet effective tricks that can enhance cleanliness and freshness in your home. Whether you’re dealing with bad smells, unwanted pests, or sticky messes, this simple addition can help solve multiple problems with minimal effort.

1. Deter Pesky Pests

Bugs, rodents, and other unwanted pests are often attracted to the scent of garbage. A cotton ball infused with peppermint or citrus essential oil can act as a natural repellent. These scents are offensive to pests but pleasant for humans, making it a simple and non-toxic solution to keep your home bug-free.

2. Absorb Leaks and Moisture

Even with the best trash bags, occasional leaks happen, creating unpleasant messes at the bottom of your bin. Placing a cotton ball in your trash can helps absorb small spills and moisture, reducing the risk of mold and bacteria growth. This hack works especially well when paired with baking soda for extra odor control.

3. Keep Unpleasant Odors at Bay

Trash cans are notorious for harboring strong, lingering smells, especially in the kitchen. A cotton ball soaked in essential oils, vinegar, or baking soda can absorb and neutralize these odors, leaving your trash can smelling fresh. Unlike chemical deodorizers, this method is natural, inexpensive, and highly effective.

4. Prevent Sticky Residue

Food scraps, grease, and other residues often leave behind sticky messes in the trash bin. By strategically placing a few cotton balls at the bottom of the can, you create a barrier that helps prevent buildup. When it’s time to clean, simply replace the cotton balls for an easier and more hygienic cleanup.

5. Add a Fresh Scent to Your Space

Trash cans don’t have to smell bad all the time. By soaking a cotton ball in your favorite essential oil and placing it inside, you can subtly fragrance the surrounding area. This trick is particularly useful in kitchens, bathrooms, and offices where a constant fresh scent is appreciated.

A cotton ball in your trash can may seem like a small change, but it offers big benefits. From odor control and pest prevention to moisture absorption and easy cleanup, this simple trick can improve your home’s cleanliness and freshness. Try it today and enjoy a cleaner, more pleasant-smelling space!