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To clean an old dishwasher without a filter, start by removing the bottom rack to access the drain area. Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the interior, paying special attention to the corners and crevices where food particles and debris can build up. Pour a cup of white vinegar into a dishwasher-safe bowl and place it on the top rack, then run a hot water cycle to help break down grease and grime. After the cycle, sprinkle a cup of baking soda across the bottom of the dishwasher and run a short hot water cycle to deodorize and further clean the interior. 

To clean a trash can with maggots, combine chlorine bleach and hot water in a 1-to-1 ratio and pour about half a gallon of the solution into the bottom of your garbage can. Just make sure there aren’t holes in the can before doing so. Close the lid, and let the fumes go to work to kill the maggots. Rinse the can with a hose outside. Consider finishing up with a bleach disinfectant and a scrub brush before letting the can dry completely. You can also consider hiring an exterminator near you for a quick, easy solution to maggots in your garbage cans.

Cleaning your trash cans lightly once per week and then disinfecting and doing a deep clean at least once per month is the best way to prevent trash can odors. You can also invest in some garbage can deodorizers to combat odors or lay down a dryer sheet or a thin layer of baking soda in the bottom of the can under the bag. Replace the deodorizer once every month or every other month, depending on how well it works over time.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using an EPA-registered disinfectant product to disinfect a house properly. If such a product isn't handy, a strong bleach solution can disinfect high-touch surfaces. Before hiring a professional, be sure to discuss the type of chemicals and disinfectants they plan to use to ensure they’re safe for household use.