Households across the UK have seen an increase in flies due to the warm summer weather. Flies are drawn to decaying food, making bins a perfect breeding ground.
A TikTok user, Emma Lucatero, shared a simple hack using cinnamon and cayenne pepper to stop flies from laying eggs.
"Finally finding a trick of putting cinnamon and cayenne pepper at the bottom of the food bin so flies get the message and stop laying eggs," she wrote in her video. She added in the caption: "I actually had enough, it works too."
Why these spices work
Cinnamon and cayenne pepper act as a natural deterrent. The strong spice of cayenne irritates pests, while cinnamon masks odours and fights mould. This combination can also deter ants and mice.
To apply, clean the bin thoroughly, then sprinkle a generous amount of both spices at the bottom. Place a bin liner on top. Refresh the spices each time the bag is replaced.
Bin maintenance
It is crucial to keep the bin clean and wipe up spillages immediately to avoid attracting more flies.
People reacted positively to the hack. One commenter said: "I had the WORST time cleaning out disco rice from my black bin last week after the heatwave, I'm noting this down." Another wrote: "Thanks I'm trying this, every time I think I've got rid of them a new batch hatches." A third person added: "Adding cayenne pepper and cinnamon to my shopping list."
