The Cause

The fetid blend of banana peels, used paper towels, cheese scraps, onion ends, milk cartons, takeout containers, and dead flowers is inevitable. Lidded garbage cans left outdoors are especially prone to bacteria growth.

The Cure

Originally designed for pet odors, SeaYu Petrotech Odor Eliminator ($10, www.petsmart.com) also works well in garbage cans and diaper pails. The nontoxic spray binds to odor particles and naturally biodegrades the odor-causing bacteria. To prevent garbage smells from forming, clean and disinfect both indoor and outdoor garbage cans with an all-purpose cleaner at least once a month.