A binman has issued an urgent plea for Britons to stop placing their food waste caddies in direct sunlight, a common mistake that attracts flies and maggots. Known as 'binfluencer' No1 Binman on TikTok, the waste collector explained that heat accelerates food decomposition, creating odours and mould that draw pests.
The Problem with Sun-Exposed Food Bins
According to the binman, storing food waste caddies in the sun causes them to 'cook,' leading to a surge in flies and maggots when opened. He urged: 'Please stop putting your food waste caddy in the sun. [Put them] in the shade, because they cook. You open it up, flies, maggots, everything.'
The heat speeds up the breakdown of organic matter, producing strong smells that attract insects. This not only creates a nuisance for households but also for waste collectors handling the bins.
Simple Solutions to Prevent Pests
The binman recommended two key steps: always store outdoor or indoor food caddies in a cool, shaded spot, and bag food waste before disposal. 'Don't put it in loose, because then it's just going to stink forever,' he advised.
Compostible liners should be used for bagging, as they break down properly unlike standard black plastic bags. Alternatively, old newspaper can help absorb liquids and prevent pooling at the bottom of the container.
Maintaining a Fresh Food Bin
Regular cleaning is essential to keep food bins odour-free and pest-free. Rinse the bin with boiling water and salt, or hot soapy water. Adding lemon juice or a few drops of essential oil can help neutralise smells. Sprinkling baking soda at the base of the bin before placing a liner also acts as a natural deodoriser.
These simple measures can significantly reduce the risk of infestations and make the bin more pleasant for both households and waste collectors.
