The All-Natural Method For Getting Rid Of Maggots In Your Trash Can

Have you ever opened the garbage can or taken the trash out to the outdoor bin, only to find it full of maggots? If so, you're not alone. Flies love laying eggs in warm, safe places with plenty of rotting organic matter, making your trash cans — especially outdoor ones — a favorite location, especially in warmer weather. The resulting larvae (a.k.a., maggots) love the damp heat created by decomposing food. While they only live for a week or so, they can multiply quickly, making it crucial to address the infestation in your trash can as soon as possible. Luckily, there's an easy, all-natural way to kill maggots with a household staple: boiling water.

The intense heat of water at a full boil (around 212 degrees Fahrenheit) kills maggots within seconds because they aren't equipped to tolerate such high heat. Plus, it has the added benefit of helping kill off other bacteria lingering in your trash can, all without the scary chemicals. Make sure to wear proper protective gear when handling hot water, like a long-sleeved top, heavy jeans, closed-toed shoes, protective goggles, and hand protection, such as oven mitts. If you're concerned about handling boiling water, heating it to 140 degrees Fahrenheit may be just as effective. Ready to get started? Fill up the kettle and let's go.

First up, take everything out of the maggot-infested garbage can. If you're cleaning an outdoor trash bin, it may be best to wait until your next pickup day. Cleaning an indoor can? Move it outside to clean, and empty. Heat a full kettle of water to boil, then carefully pour the water over the insects, any eggs you see (look for little white orbs), and along the sides of the can for good measure. Pour out the water, put any dead insects in a plastic bag, then put it in the garbage. Rinse thoroughly and let the can dry completely before putting trash in.

Boiling water gets rid of current infestations, but it won't help prevent them from returning. Doing a quick vinegar bath before rinsing and drying can help eliminate any leftover odor the flies find delicious, but also get rid of any insects hiding in the can's crevices. Mix a 1:3 ratio of distilled white vinegar and boiling water, pour into the can, then let sit for a half hour with the lid shut.

There are a few strategies you can do to stop unexpectedly attracting maggots, like cutting down on the available food. Compost when possible to put those organic food scraps to good use in your garden. If scraps can't be composted, thoroughly tie up trash bags to keep flies (and therefore maggots) out. Other easy tips include keeping the bin's lid closed to prevent flies from moving in and cleaning your exterior trash cans as well as indoor ones on a regular basis.