How to Get Musty Smell Out of Plastic Storage Bins？

Plastic storage bins are an incredibly convenient way to keep your belongings organized and protected. However, one common issue that many people face is that over time, these bins can develop a musty smell. This unpleasant odor often arises from moisture buildup, damp items, or simply prolonged storage in an unventilated area. Fortunately, getting rid of the musty smell is possible with a few simple cleaning and deodorizing methods. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to freshen up your plastic storage bins and eliminate that stale odor.

1. Empty the Bin and Inspect for Mold or Mildew

The first step in eliminating a musty smell from plastic storage bins is to completely empty the bin. Remove all items and check for any signs of mold, mildew, or excess moisture. If your stored items have been in contact with water, there’s a high chance that moisture has seeped into the bin, encouraging mold and mildew growth.

• Look for Visible Mold: If you spot mold or mildew, you’ll need to clean the affected areas with a disinfecting solution. Mold can be harmful, so it’s essential to handle it with care.
• Check for Dampness: If the items inside are damp, let them dry out before re-storing them. Also, check if the bin itself has retained moisture.

2. Clean the Plastic Storage Bin Thoroughly

Once you’ve emptied the bin and assessed its contents, it’s time to give the plastic bin a good cleaning. Cleaning will not only remove dirt and grime but will also help eliminate the source of the musty smell.

Materials Needed:

• Dish soap or mild detergent
• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• Warm water
• Scrub brush or cloth
• A towel or paper towels

Cleaning Steps:

1. Wash the Bin with Soapy Water: Fill the bin with warm water and a few squirts of dish soap or mild detergent. Use a scrub brush or cloth to clean the inside of the bin, paying special attention to corners and crevices where mold or dirt may be hiding.
2. Rinse Thoroughly: Once the bin is clean, rinse it thoroughly with warm water to remove all soap residues.
3. Dry the Bin: Dry the bin completely with a towel or let it air dry. Make sure there’s no residual moisture left, as it can encourage further mold growth or unpleasant odors.

3. Deodorize the Bin with Baking Soda

Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that can help neutralize the musty smell lingering inside the plastic bin. It works by absorbing moisture and odor, leaving the bin smelling fresh.

Deodorizing Steps:

1. Sprinkle Baking Soda: After cleaning and drying the bin, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda inside. You can cover the entire bottom of the bin for maximum effect.
2. Let It Sit: Close the bin and let the baking soda sit for a few hours or overnight. This allows it to absorb the musty odors.
3. Vacuum or Shake Out the Baking Soda: Once the baking soda has had time to absorb the smell, shake the bin to dislodge any excess powder. You can also use a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment to remove the powder.

4. Use White Vinegar to Eliminate Odor

White vinegar is another natural solution that works wonders in neutralizing unpleasant odors. It also helps kill any lingering bacteria or mold spores that may contribute to the musty smell.

Deodorizing Steps with Vinegar:

1. Mix a Vinegar Solution: In a spray bottle, mix one part white vinegar with two parts water.
2. Spray the Bin: Lightly spray the inside of the plastic bin with the vinegar solution. You don’t need to soak the bin, just a light misting should suffice.
3. Let It Air Dry: Close the bin and allow it to sit for a few hours or overnight, giving the vinegar time to neutralize the odor. As the vinegar evaporates, the smell will dissipate, leaving the bin fresh.

5. Use Activated Charcoal or Silica Gel Packs

If the musty smell persists, activated charcoal or silica gel packs can help absorb moisture and neutralize odors over time. These items are often used to absorb moisture in areas like closets, basements, and storage bins.

Using Charcoal or Silica Gel:

1. Place Charcoal or Gel Packs: Place a few pieces of activated charcoal or silica gel packets inside the plastic storage bin. These items are especially helpful if the bin is stored in a humid environment.
2. Leave for Several Days: Close the bin and leave the charcoal or gel packets inside for a few days. They will absorb moisture and help to eliminate the musty smell.

6. Prevent Future Odors

Once you’ve cleaned and deodorized your plastic storage bin, it’s important to take steps to prevent the musty smell from returning in the future.

Preventive Tips:

• Store Items Dry: Before storing items in plastic bins, make sure they are completely dry. Avoid placing damp clothes, linens, or paper products in storage.
• Ventilate the Bin: If possible, leave the lid of the bin slightly open to allow for airflow. This is especially useful if you’re storing items in a damp environment.
• Use Moisture Absorbers: Consider placing moisture-absorbing products like silica gel packets or moisture-absorbing crystals inside the bins to keep the contents dry and fresh.
• Store in a Dry Area: Keep your storage bins in a cool, dry location, away from areas prone to moisture like basements or attics.

7. Conclusion

A musty smell in plastic storage bins can be annoying, but with the right cleaning and deodorizing techniques, you can restore freshness and prevent future odors. By following the steps outlined above, including cleaning the bins, using natural deodorizers like baking soda and vinegar, and taking preventive measures, you can ensure that your plastic bins remain odor-free and your stored items stay in good condition. With a little care and attention, your plastic storage bins can serve you for years without the unwelcome smell of mustiness.