As we all strive for a cleaner, more pleasant home environment, it’s no surprise that Australians are constantly on the lookout for hacks and products that promise to make life a little easier. One such product, a wheelie bin liner sold at Coles for $6.50 per pack of 10, has been touted as a game-changer for keeping bins clean and odour-free. But before you rush out to grab this seemingly affordable solution, let’s delve into why it might not be the best idea for your rubbish woes.
For many of us, especially renters like Melbourne resident Esther, moving into a new home often comes with the unpleasant surprise of a dirty wheelie bin. The lingering odours and unsightly mess at the bottom of the bin can be a daunting challenge to tackle. Esther, like many others, found herself in a predicament when her bin became a breeding ground for foul smells, thanks in part to her dog’s waste. Determined to find a solution, she took to cleaning out the bin with a broom, a hose, and disinfectant, which is no small feat.
In her quest for a cleaner bin, Esther discovered the Multix Council Bin Liners, which are marketed as an ideal way to keep bins pristine. At just 65 cents per week, it seems like a small price to pay for convenience. After a deep clean, Esther decided to give these liners a try, only to find that they would often slip down into the bin when rubbish was added. Her workaround? Securing the liners with pegs on the edges of the bin, which she claims worked ‘amazingly well’.
Despite Esther’s success with the bin liners, waste management experts at Veolia have weighed in with a different perspective. They suggest that these liners are unnecessary and that a simple solution is often the best one. According to Veolia, giving your bin a quick rinse with a hose after each collection is a more effective and environmentally friendly way to maintain cleanliness and avoid unpleasant smells.
While bin liners might seem like a quick fix, they come with their own set of problems. For starters, they can contribute to more plastic waste, which is something we should all be trying to reduce. Additionally, if not secured properly, they can create more mess by slipping and allowing waste to escape, defeating the purpose of using them in the first place.
While Esther’s experience with bin liners may have seemed positive at first, it’s important to look at the bigger picture. The advice from waste management professionals is clear: skip the liners and opt for a simple hose-down instead. Not only will this save you money in the long run, but it will also contribute to a cleaner and greener Australia.
What method do you use to keep your wheelie bin fresh? Have you tried bin liners, or do you have another cleaning solution that works for you? Feel free to share your tips or experiences in the comments below!
Also read: Are you ready to upgrade your waste disposal? FOGO bins are on the way!
