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Households urged to pour bicarb soda into bins by end of April
Reach Daily Express | April 19, 2026 4:39 AM CST

Experts have urged households to pour bicarbonate of soda into your bin to help with one common issue. With warmer weather on the way, it's important to deter flies from your bins and bicarbonate of soda could be the perfect way to do it.

Each year, you might find flies buzzing around your bins but there's a few easy ways you can help get rid of them alongside trying this simple trick. Maps from WXCHARTS show temperatures could reach highs of 18C by Tuesday April 28 meaning you'll want to get this job done before it gets hotter.

Ryan Kaila, waste and recycling expert at Kingfisher Direct, tells Ideal Home: "Regular cleaning is essential.

"Not only does it remove bacteria that could be harmful in the home, but it removes any food residue that flies would want to feed on and lay eggs on, therefore preventing more and more flies from swarming."

"Even if you use a bin liner, clean out the bin frequently to prevent smells. Warm/hot water and antibacterial spray should work well.

"Use an odour-absorbing powder in your bin, or bicarbonate of soda, which should work to do the same job."

Merlin Environmental says flies don't need much - a tiny gap in the lid, a smear of food residue, a warm afternoon. These will be enough to turn your bin into a fly breeding ground.

It warns that once they've laid eggs, you're not dealing with a few flies anymore - you're dealing with hundreds.

Good News Pest Control says flies are drawn to food smells, especially sugar and meat. They are also drawn to bins, compost, and drains along with pet waste and dirty dishes.

It adds that heat and open windows is another element they may be drawn to.

Alongside the bicarbonate of soda trick, there's a few extra ways you can try to keep flies away.

Make sure to keep kitchen surfaces clean and to seal bin lids, taking rubbish out daily.

You should install fly screens or use natural repellents and treat drains as well as hidden breeding spots.

If you find repeat problems, you should call pest control for fly infestations.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure your bins will stay fly-free this summer.


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