July 1, 2026, 11:07 am | Read time: 4 minutes
Many people go to great lengths to keep their trash cans clean and sometimes even wash them. Residual waste is carefully disposed of in bags, organic waste is wrapped in newspaper, and liquids are kept out of the bin altogether. But after garbage collection, some face an unpleasant surprise: Instead of their own well-maintained trash can, a noticeably dirty and foul-smelling one suddenly appears in front of the house–apparently swapped with a neighbor’s.
This is not uncommon, especially on streets with many identical bins. But do those affected just have to accept it? And who is actually responsible if the “new” bin stinks or is full of dirt? myHOMEBOOK asked the Association of Municipal Companies (VKU).
Swapped Trash Cans Are Not a Rare Sight
After emptying, garbage collection workers often do not return the bins to their exact original spot. As a result, they quickly end up in front of the wrong property. This is especially annoying when your own clean bin is swapped for a much dirtier one.
Legally, consumers usually have little recourse. “There is generally no entitlement to a specific bin,” explains a VKU spokesperson. To avoid mix-ups, it’s advisable to clearly mark your trash can with your house number or address.
Clean Yes–But a Trash Can Doesn’t Have to Be Perfectly Clean
Many assume that an emptied trash can must also be returned clean. In reality, the expectation is much more limited.
“After emptying, the bin must be reliably emptied,” says the VKU spokesperson. However, minor residues or dirt cannot always be avoided in everyday life and are therefore not considered a defect. A certain amount of dirt is part of the normal use of a trash can.
Only when significant odors arise or hygiene issues occur does a merely dirty bin become a real nuisance.
Who Is Responsible for a Clean Trash Can?
Even though the garbage collection regularly empties the bins, the responsibility for their cleanliness usually does not lie with the disposal company. “For a clean environment, it mainly depends on local handling,” explains the VKU spokesperson. Typically, users or owners themselves are responsible for cleaning the bins. The disposal companies are primarily responsible for regular emptying.
If you want to save on cleaning, you can inquire with your local disposal service. Some companies offer a bin cleaning service–though not universally and sometimes for a fee.
Why the Garbage Collection Always Comes in the Morning
3 simple tips against smelly organic waste in the kitchen
In Summer, Dirty Bins Can Become a Hygiene Problem
The problem intensifies, especially in the warm months. Organic waste decomposes much faster, which can lead to unpleasant odors.
“At higher temperatures, organic waste can decompose. This can lead to unpleasant odors as well as fly and maggot infestations,” warns the VKU spokesperson.
If such hygiene problems occur, responsibility depends on where the cause originated. In most cases, it lies with the users or owners of the trash cans.
Related: How to Prevent Maggots in the Organic Waste Bin
Simple Measures Keep the Bin Cleaner Longer
To prevent severe dirt buildup, the VKU recommends some simple measures. Residual waste should be disposed of in environmentally friendly bags whenever possible. Organic waste should be placed loose or wrapped in newspaper in the organic waste bin–plastic bags are a no-go.
Additionally, liquid food waste should not be placed loose in the bin. Newspaper at the bottom of the bin can absorb moisture and thus reduce odors. A shady location and a lid kept as closed as possible also help to keep heat buildup low.
“Wrapping organic waste in paper retains moisture and reduces odors,” explains the VKU spokesperson. Especially during the summer months, it may also be advisable to rinse trash cans more frequently with water.