Wheelie bins often attract flies because of the food waste they contain, and once flies lay eggs, maggots can hatch in as little as 24 hours. The problem tends to worsen in warmer weather, particularly when bins are not cleaned regularly.
Although maggots are not typically harmful to humans, they are unpleasant, and most people prefer to keep them away from their homes. A simple method using two common kitchen cupboard ingredients can discourage flies and maggots without the need for expensive or potentially hazardous chemical products.
Expert Shares Natural Deterrent
DIY expert Ken Long shared the solution on TikTok, advising: "Keep flies and maggots out of your garbage can. Sprinkle some cayenne pepper and cinnamon at the bottom of your garbage can."
He explained that the capsaicin in cayenne pepper irritates flies' senses, and flies dislike the smell of cinnamon. This combination keeps flies away from garbage, preventing them from laying eggs and thus avoiding maggots.
Safety Precautions for Using Spices
Caution is advised when using cayenne pepper, especially indoors, as its strong scent can cause sneezing or eye irritation. When scattering it in a bin, it is important to avoid creating dust clouds that could irritate waste collectors' eyes.
Placing the spice inside the bin liner and fastening it securely on collection days can prevent spillage or mess.
Additional Tips to Keep Bins Clean
Cleaning bins frequently with hot, soapy water, or a mild bleach solution or vinegar, can eliminate potential eggs or larvae. Using bin liners and tying bags tightly reduces spillages that attract flies.
Avoid overfilling bins so the lid closes firmly, and repair or replace any damaged lids promptly. Draining liquids from food before disposal and wrapping wet waste, such as tea bags and fruit peelings, in newspaper or damp towels also helps. Leaving waste out for long periods, especially in warm weather, can create moisture that attracts flies, so bins should be emptied when they become too full.
