How to Get Rid of Maggots in Your Garbage Can: Expert Tips from a Pro

When temperatures soar into the 90s, maggot infestations become one of the most common, and unpleasant, garbage can problems homeowners face. During these hot summer months, we've seen countless cases while cleaning bins across the Minneapolis/St. Paul Metro. The good news? With a few simple measures, you can get those pesky and gross maggots out of your garbage can for good.

Start Your Prevention in the Kitchen

Believe it or not, preventing maggots begins before your trash even reaches the outdoor bin. Here's what you need to know about proper kitchen waste disposal during hot weather:

Don't Overfill Your Bags

Most households use tall kitchen garbage bags, and with a busy family, it's tempting to fill them completely before taking them out. However, during the summer months, I recommend only filling bags to about 80% capacity. This small change makes a big difference in how you can seal the bag.

Seal Bags Properly

Instead of using the drawstrings to close your garbage bag—which leaves the top somewhat open and accessible to flies—try this technique: grab the entire bag, give it a spin, and tie it off at the top. This creates a much tighter seal that prevents flies from getting inside and laying eggs.

Pet Waste Requires Special Attention

If you have dogs, pet waste can be a major contributor to maggot problems. Those thin bags you use to pick up waste during walks are actually vulnerable—flies can lay eggs right through them.

If You Can, Create a Dedicated Pet Waste Station

• Continue sealing individual waste bags as you normally would
• Designate a spot outside on the side of your house for pet waste storage
• Use a separate bin with a lid that seals securely.
• On garbage day, collect all the pet waste bags together in one sealed bag before putting them in your main trash can

This approach significantly reduces the opportunity for flies to access the waste and eliminates many potential maggot problems.

Remove All Garbage and Debris From Your Can and Clean Thoroughly

If you're already dealing with an infestation you need to do a deep cleaning on the garbage bin. Obviously, we believe that a professional cleaning is the best solution. We have made our trash can cleaning service affordable and well worth-it for any home owner. But if you do choose to clean your own cans, make sure you do a thorough job, removing all the gunk and residue from inside and outside of the can.

Clean the Storage Area

Maggots can survive for several days on the ground where you store your bins. Before placing your freshly cleaned can back in its spot, thoroughly check and clean the storage area. This prevents re-infestation from maggots that may have dropped to the ground.

After Cleaning: The 24-36 Hour Rule

Once your can has been cleaned, deodorized, and treated with fly-repelling solutions like lavender scent, there's one crucial step: don't put any garbage in the can for 24 to 36 hours.

Why? Maggots are surprisingly resilient. They can hide in hard-to-reach areas like handles or wheel wells where water spray can't reach. By waiting 24-36 hours without adding new waste, you can confirm that the infestation is completely eliminated. If you see any maggots after this period (which is very rare), a follow-up cleaning can address any remaining pests.

The Bottom Line

Mother Nature can be a formidable opponent when it comes to keeping your garbage cans maggot-free, but with these preventive measures and proper cleaning protocols, you can win the battle. By sealing bags properly, managing pet waste carefully, and following post-cleaning guidelines, you'll enjoy a cleaner, more pleasant garbage disposal experience all summer long.Your Content Goes Here