How to Prevent Maggots Outside the Trash Can

Species of flies such as the house fly and garbage fly can cause a nuisance when they lay their eggs around your trash. Flies deposit their eggs in animal and organic waste. A female can lay up to 100 eggs after mating, with eggs developing within a week, notes the University of California. Once eggs hatch, you can have flies swarming around your home. To prevent maggots from developing, you can eradicate the environment where flies lay their eggs.

Things You'll Need

• Soap
• Water
• Vinegar
• Mint or eucalyptus oil
• Garbage bags

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Instructions

• 1

  Reduce garbage buildup.

  Clean your trash can with soap and water regularly to eliminate odors and debris buildup. Flies are attracted to residues found within your trash can. Alternatively, you can use vinegar to sanitize your trash can.

• 2

  Wait to discard your trash.

  Store organic waste in your freezer when possible, recommends the City of Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Organic waste includes meat and vegetables. On the day your garbage is collected, dispose of your waste.

• 3

  Wash any food receptacles before throwing them into your trash, suggests West Virginia University. Eliminating the odors can minimize the chance of flies wanting to lay eggs.

• 4

  Don't give flies a chance to lay eggs.

  Clean up any food spills around your trash can. Ensure that your trash can also closes properly and tightly. Replace your trash can if the lid doesn't shut.

• 5

  Dab your trash can with oil repellents that will deter flies. Flies dislike the smell of mint and eucalyptus. You can buy these oils at your local food markets.

• 6

  Remove all air.

  Squeeze any air out of your garbage bags before sealing them. Reducing air within your trash bags slows down food decomposition, as well as minimizing attractive odors for flies. This helps prevent maggot development.