A refuse collector has shared straightforward methods to help prevent maggots and flies from taking up residence in wheelie bins, including one step that many people are reluctant to try. During summer months, warmer temperatures increase fly activity and accelerate the decomposition of food waste, producing pungent odours that draw pests in.
Tips from the binman
Binman and social media creator @The No. 1Binman posted several helpful hints on Instagram. His first suggestion was to double-bag smelly food. He advised: "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."
His second recommendation warned householders against leaving their wheelie bins in direct sunlight. He noted that hot weather causes the bin to heat up, which draws more flies because of the odour. Where feasible, position bins somewhere shaded or "anywhere you can", such as beneath a chair. The sole exception is collection day, when the bin must be placed outside the property.
Keep the lid shut
He also emphasised keeping the wheelie bin lid firmly shut. The binman explained: "If the flies can't get in there, they can't lay the maggots to then be in the bin."
Finally, he suggested: "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."
Public reaction
The video sparked a flurry of responses in the comments section. One viewer remarked: "Food waste in our freezer wtf nah." Another declared: "No way am I putting food waste in my [damn] fridge."
Yet several people revealed they had been employing the freezer method for years with great success. One commenter enthused: "Food waste in bags in the freezer until bin day... WORKS!!" While another confirmed: "I have done the freezer trick for years, and it works a treat."
Alternative approach
To discourage flies and maggots from invading a wheelie bin, placing vinegar-soaked bread at the base can help. The pungent aroma of vinegar acts as a natural fly repellent, while ensuring food scraps are properly sealed in bags makes the bin far less appealing to pests from the outset.
