Environment
21 November 2008


How to Keep Your Bin Clean

To reduce odour and chance of experiencing maggots in hot weather, we have put together some simple guidelines.

  1. Keep the lid closed on the bin at all times.
  2. All food waste, particularly meat, needs to be double bagged. Animal waste should be double bagged too.
  3. Recycle as much of your waste as possible so that general refuse is minimised and the bin lid remains shut.
  4. Keep the bin out of direct sunlight (slowing general decomposition, reducing smells and slowing the development of maggots, etc.).
  5. Try not to leave waste food exposed inside the home before putting it in the bin, as flies can lay eggs during this time. Uncovered bins inside the kitchen can also allow flies to lay eggs on waste food.
  6. Squeeze the air out of bags used to contain food waste, etc. before they are tied and put in the bin (the lack of air should slow down general decomposition, reduce smells and slow the development of maggots, etc.).
  7. Avoid leaving dog/cat food out uncovered - again because flies can lay their eggs in it.
  8. Maggots will only appear in the bin if the eggs have been laid in a suitable food source for them to develop. If bins are kept closed, flies should not be able to enter to lay their eggs. Therefore, if maggots do appear, the eggs are likely to have been laid before the food was put in the wheelie bin, especially if it is properly wrapped when put in the bin, etc.
  9. It is also suggested that solids are emptied in to the WC from disposable nappies before being double bagged and put in the bin. 'Terry' type nappies and eco friendly nappies are recommended (with a laundering service).
  10. Cleaning the bin and the use of insecticides/fly sprays will reduce the problem.

If you have any queries regarding this matter, please call us on  01895 837362.

Top Tips

In really hot weather, if smells are a problem, try layering a few sheets of newspaper or cardboard in your green waste bin.

If you have any very smelly food waste that you don’t want to leave in your green bin for 2 weeks, then put it in your black bin. We do want to divert as much of this waste away from landfill as possible, but there may be times when you would prefer to do this.

Try sprinkling a product called Bolashi inside your green bin. This activates the compost process and so reduces unpleasant smells. For more information, contact Living soil on 01556 650116.

Try using a solution of vinegar and water, either in a spray or as a washing solution in your green wheelie bin after collections.

Some supermarkets sell bin liners or food packaging that is labelled as ‘degradable’. Please note that these items are still made of plastic, are not compatible and are not acceptable in your green bin

Some essential oils, such as citronella and tea tree oil are natural insect repellents. Try smearing your bin lid with one of these oils, if files are a problem but please do not use it if you are pregnant.