Most of us have lifted a bin lid and been met by a cloud of flies. Sometimes it is just a few escaping; other times it is a full-blown swarm in the kitchen. Either way it is grim, and it happens far more often once the weather warms up. Below are some practical ways to keep your bins fly-free this summer.
Why bins fill up with flies
Flies are drawn to bins because that is where the food waste is, and food waste is what they feed on. A fly gets into the bin and lays its eggs on the waste. Those eggs hatch into maggots, the maggots become flies, and the next time you lift the lid out they come. Warm weather speeds the whole cycle up, which is exactly why a bin can go from clean to crawling in the height of summer.
Keep your bins sealed
The first line of defence is a properly fitting lid. The tighter the seal, the harder it is for flies to get in and lay eggs in the first place. If you can keep your bins in a cupboard or an enclosed store rather than out in the open, that cuts their access even further.
Clean your bins regularly
Food debris builds up inside a bin over time, even when you use liners, and that residue is what keeps attracting flies. Give your bins a proper clean whenever they are empty. A bit of soapy water and a garden hose does the trick, or you can bring in a professional bin-cleaning service if you would rather.
Why fly control matters
Flies in the bin do not stay in the bin. Sooner or later they make their way into the kitchen and around the house, where they can land on your food, spread bacteria and pass on diseases, including food poisoning, to your family. That is why it pays to deal with a fly problem thoroughly rather than swatting at the symptoms.
If you are struggling with flies at home, call our team. Our pest control experts will clear the infestation and leave you with advice to keep the bins fly-free this summer and in the years to come. We are open every day except Christmas Day, from early until late.