A bin man has shared simple tips to help prevent maggots in your wheelie bin, including a method that "some people don't want to do."
Maggots are among the last things anybody wants to find squirming around inside their wheelie bin. Yet during warmer months, they can quickly become a recurring nuisance for households, as flies become more active and food waste decomposes more quickly, generating stronger odours that draw them in.
Fortunately, a bin man has revealed a straightforward method to help keep these unwanted creatures at bay. However, he warns it involves something that "some people don't want to do."
How to stop maggots
Bin man and content creator @The No. 1Binman took to Instagram to share a few tips. Kicking off his advice, he said: "To start with, if you got some smelly food, double-bag it."
"And once you have double-bagged it, make sure you squeeze the air out of it, make sure it's tied tight, and then put it in your bin."
For his second tip, the bin man cautioned householders to keep their wheelie bin away from direct sunlight. He explained that hot weather heats up your wheelie bin, which attracts more flies due to the smell.
Where possible, position your bins in a shaded spot or "anywhere you can" such as beneath a chair. He stated that the only exception is on bin day, when you need to place it out in front of your house.
He also advised keeping the lid of your wheelie bin firmly shut. The bin man shared: "If the flies can't get in there, they can't lay the maggots to then be in the bin."
Freezer method
"Lastly, some people don't want to do this, but it's a possibility if you can. Put the food waste in the freezer, and then on bin day, put it in your bin."
People watching the video responded in droves, sharing their thoughts on his suggestions. One viewer commented: "food waste in our freezer wtf nah."
Another remarked: "No way am I putting food waste in my [damn] fridge."
Though surprisingly, several people revealed they have been using the freezer method for years with success.
One person posted: "Food waste in bags in the freezer until bin day... WORKS!!" Another added: "I have done the freezer trick for years and it works a treat."
Alternative method
To prevent flies and maggots from infesting your bin, place some vinegar-soaked bread at the base. It's also advisable to properly bag your rubbish to maintain bin hygiene.
The pungent aroma of vinegar can deter flies, while storing food waste in secure bags can reduce your bin's appeal to them from the outset.
