Wheelie bins are an essential part of everyday waste management in homes, businesses, and institutions across Kenya. Whether you’re in Nairobi, Kisumu, Mombasa, or Eldoret, having a functional and clean wheelie bin system contributes to hygiene, pest control, and environmental safety.

However, owning a wheelie bin is more than just having a container for garbage. You need to know where to keep it, how to clean it, how to extend its life, and how to secure it from theft or misuse. At Kejani Cleaning Services Limited, we offer not only the supply of quality waste bins with wheels , but also expert advice on managing them effectively.

In this post, we’ll answer common questions such as:

• Where should I keep my wheelie bin?

• What can I clean my wheelie bin with?

• How long do wheelie bins last?

• How do I wash a wheelie bin?

• How can I cover or lock my bin?

Let’s dive in.

1. Where Should I Keep My Wheelie Bin?

A. Keep it Out of Direct Sunlight

Kenya’s sun is no joke. Constant exposure to sunlight can weaken plastic materials over time, causing the bin to crack, fade, or become brittle. Keep your bin in a shaded area such as behind your house, in a bin enclosure, or under a metallic or polycarbonate canopy.

B. Flat, Stable Surface

Always place your bin on a firm, even surface. If kept on a slope or uneven terrain, the bin might fall over—spilling waste and attracting pests. A concrete slab or tiled ground works best.

C. Away from Windows and Entryways

Keep bins at least a few feet away from doors and windows. This prevents bad smells from infiltrating your home or office and keeps insects away from living areas.

D. Accessible to Garbage Collectors

Your bin should be easy to roll out or access during collection days. Make sure it’s not locked behind gates or blocked by other objects.

E. Secure and Discreet

If you live in an estate, apartment, or gated community, a bin enclosure or storage box is ideal. It helps with both aesthetics and security.

2. What Can I Clean a Wheelie Bin With?

A. Household Cleaning Supplies

You don’t need expensive products to keep your bin clean. These common items do the job:

• Hot water and dish soap

• Jik bleach or disinfectant like Dettol

• Baking soda and vinegar

• Multipurpose antibacterial cleaner from Kejani Cleaning

B. Specialized Bin Cleaners

Kejani Cleaning also stocks professional-grade cleaners and deodorizing sprays specifically designed for plastic bins. These products break down organic waste, remove stains, and kill harmful bacteria.

C. Natural Cleaners

To avoid environmental damage:

• Mix white vinegar and lemon juice for a natural antibacterial solution.

• Use baking soda to neutralize odors.

Pro tip: Avoid using harsh industrial solvents which may degrade plastic or harm the environment.

3. How Long Do Wheelie Bins Last?

On average, wheelie bins can last 5 to 10 years depending on usage and environmental exposure. Here’s what influences lifespan:

• Material Quality: HDPE plastic bins are UV-resistant and weather-tolerant.

• UV Resistance: Bins with UV inhibitors last longer under the Kenyan sun.

• Weight Loads: Overloading with construction waste, heavy food scraps, or sharp metal shortens lifespan.

• Maintenance: Regular cleaning and correct handling extend durability.

At Kejani, our bins are made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) with rubber wheels and reinforced lids for maximum durability.

4. How to Wash a Wheelie Bin

Regular bin cleaning prevents odors, bacterial growth, and insect infestation. Here’s a 5-step method:

Step 1: Empty the Bin

Ensure the bin is completely empty before starting. If needed, hose down or brush out loose debris.

Step 2: Prepare Cleaning Solution

Mix hot water with dish soap or use a bin cleaner. For eco-friendliness, use vinegar + lemon juice + baking soda.

Step 3: Scrub the Inside

Use a long-handled scrubbing brush or mop to clean the inside walls and bottom. Focus on corners where grime settles.

Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly

Use a garden hose or pressure washer to rinse out all soap and debris. Don’t pour dirty water into storm drains.

Step 5: Dry and Deodorize

Leave the bin to dry in the sun. Once dry, sprinkle baking soda inside to absorb odors.

Frequency:
Clean your bin every two weeks, or immediately after disposing of food waste, diapers, or liquids.

5. How to Cover a Wheelie Bin

Leaving a bin open can attract pests, increase smell, and let rainwater in. Here are options:

A. Use the Standard Lid

Ensure the attached lid is always closed. If your lid is broken, Kejani stocks replacement lids.

B. Invest in Bin Covers

Elastic bin covers or lids with strong sealing bands prevent overflow and rain entry.

C. Use a Bin Enclosure or Shed

Ideal for homes and restaurants, these keep bins organized and visually appealing while also offering protection.

D. DIY Covers

Wooden or metal bin cages with roof panels are an affordable way to protect bins outdoors.

6. How to Lock Your Wheelie Bin

In high-theft or high-wind areas, securing your bin is essential.

A. Bins with Built-in Locks

Some Kejani bins come with lock-ready handles or built-in locking mechanisms.

B. Padlocks

Insert a lock through the bin handle holes or a custom lock hole on the lid.

C. External Locking Straps

These tension-based straps keep the lid closed and are useful in windy locations or for transporting bins in trucks.

D. Full Bin Lockers

For apartment complexes and schools, steel lockers or plastic bin cabinets are an excellent long-term investment.

Extra Tips for Bin Maintenance

• Use bin liners or garbage bags: They prevent food and liquids from leaking inside.

• Label your bins: Especially in shared spaces.

• Disinfect the handles: Weekly disinfection helps prevent the spread of germs.

• Avoid overfilling: Lid should close fully to avoid attracting animals.

Conclusion

Maintaining a wheelie bin is easy when you follow proper practices. A well-maintained bin not only lasts longer but also improves hygiene and sanitation. Whether it’s placement, cleaning, covering, or locking, Kejani Cleaning Services Limited is here to help you every step of the way.

We offer a range of durable HDPE bins, bin cleaning products, and eco-friendly disinfectants available for order on our waste management collection page.

Shop with Us Today

✅ 120L, 240L, and 660L bins
✅ Bin covers, locks, and enclosures
✅ Disinfectants and deodorizing sprays
✅ Free delivery in Nairobi CBD

Contact Kejani Cleaning Services Limited today to upgrade your bin hygiene and waste management practices.