I don't have a special bucket. One small mothercare 'nappy bin' with lid which I use until they've been rinsed clean, and then an open bucket/bin where they sit until they're washed. I don't think they smell, but maybe I'm used to it :o
I don't rinse in anything apart from cold water. Then they sit in the bucket (no rinse solution / napisan / essential oils) until they get washed with non-bio and vinegar. Good for environment as poo goes down toilet, and wipes are separated into the bin (instead of causing blockages five houses down!).
EPIS - depends on what you went for. Some councils will even refund the cost of 2nd hand nappies if you supply E-bay (or similar) details. Would this be an option you'd consider?