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How to Reduce Wheelie Bin Smells & Maggots

Bad smells and maggots usually start with food or liquid residue. The best prevention is to reduce what gets left behind and clean the bin once it is empty.

Why wheelie bins start to smell

A bin can be emptied and still be dirty. Leaking bags, food packaging and loose waste can leave residue on the base and walls of the bin.

In warm weather, that residue can smell more strongly and attract flies. If flies lay eggs around food waste or residue, maggots can follow.

Ways to reduce the problem

Seal waste securely

Tie rubbish bags properly and avoid putting loose food waste into the bin where possible.

Keep the lid closed

A properly closed lid makes it harder for flies to reach waste inside the bin.

Deal with leaks

If a bag splits or leaks, clean the residue rather than leaving it on the bottom until the next collection.

Clean after collection

Once the bin is empty, wash away residue from the inside, lid and contact areas.

What if maggots are already there?

If the bin has already been emptied, the important step is to remove any remaining waste and thoroughly clean away the residue that attracted the flies. Pay particular attention to the bottom of the bin and areas around the lid.

After cleaning, keeping future waste bagged securely and the lid shut helps reduce the chance of the same problem returning.

Professional bin cleaning

A professional clean is useful when grime and odour have built up or when you want the bin cleaned routinely after collection.

NI Bin Guy washes, sanitises and deodorises domestic and commercial bins in established local service areas.