Flies and maggots can be kept out of bins with a simple 50p item: sprigs of mint or lavender placed in the lid. This natural method deters flies from laying eggs on food waste, especially during warm weather when infestations are more common.
Why Flies and Maggots Appear
Flies are attracted to bins because they seek to lay eggs directly onto food waste. If maggots appear, it means flies have successfully laid eggs on food inside the bin or in the kitchen before disposal. This can be a deeply unpleasant discovery, and reducing the chances of infestation is vital.
Natural Deterrents Recommended by Fareham Council
Fareham Council explains: "There are a few natural herbs that deter flies. Place sprigs of Elder, Lavender, Mint, Pennyroyal, Rue or Southern Wood in the bin/bin lid, or hang them up around the bin to keep flies away." They add: "Rub the leaves frequently so their smell is released. Or smear tea-tree oil or citronella on the bin lid to deter flies."
Mint is available from Asda for just 50p, while lavender costs around £5 at garden centres. Simply put a few sprigs inside the bin to act as a natural deterrent. Mothballs can also be placed in wheelie bins to help contain odours. Keep your bin fresh by spraying it with disinfectant each time it's emptied.
How to Avoid Getting Maggots in Your Bin
Fareham Council has outlined several straightforward measures to lower the chances of maggots appearing:
- Never leave food, including pet food, uncovered, as flies can lay eggs before it goes in the bin.
- Double-bag all food waste in securely tied plastic bags.
- Squeeze air out of bags before tying and placing them in the bin, as a lack of air can slow down decomposition and reduce smells.
- Keep your bin lid closed.
- Recycle materials as much as possible, so less waste is in the bin.
- Keep the inside and outside of your bin clean.
- Store your bin in a shady place out of direct sunlight.
How to Get Rid of Maggots
If maggots have already taken hold in your bin, the majority will disappear once it has been collected. After emptying, follow these steps: kill maggots and fly eggs with boiling water, clean and wash out your bin, and use a cleaning product with a fragrance to deter flies from returning.
