You don’t necessarily need a large amount of rotten food.
Even small amounts of organic residue can attract flies.
Common sources include:
- Meat scraps
- Fish and seafood
- Fruit peels
- Vegetables
- Leftover cooked food
- Pet food
- Greasy food waste
- Animal waste
- Dirty food packaging
Sometimes the problem isn’t even the garbage bag itself.
Liquid from food waste can leak through the bag and collect at the bottom of the bin. Food residue can also stick to the sides, lid, rim, or corners.
That’s why simply replacing the garbage bag may not completely solve the problem.
What Should You Do If You Find Maggots?
First, don’t panic.
They’re disgusting to look at, but finding maggots in household garbage is usually a sanitation issue rather than a mysterious or dangerous infestation. One local authority notes that there is no evidence that maggots themselves cause health problems, although flies and contaminated waste should still be handled hygienically.
Step 1: Remove the Infested Garbage
Tie the garbage bag securely.
If possible, take it outside rather than carrying an open or leaking bag through your home.
If the bag is damaged, place it inside another sturdy bag before moving it.
Step 2: Keep Children and Pets Away
While you’re dealing with the garbage, keep children and pets away from the area.
Wear gloves if you’re handling contaminated waste or cleaning the bin.
Step 3: Clean the Trash Can
Once the garbage has been removed, inspect the entire bin.
Check:
- The bottom
- Inside walls
- Lid
- Rim
- Handles
- Corners
- Any cracks or seams
Remove visible residue and wash the container thoroughly with an appropriate household disinfecting cleaner, following the product’s directions. Public-health and local-authority guidance also recommends cleaning bins after they’re emptied.
Never mix bleach with ammonia, acids, or other cleaning products.
Step 4: Let It Dry
Don’t immediately put a new bag into a wet garbage can.
Allow the container to dry completely.
Reducing moisture makes the environment less appealing to flies and helps keep odors under control.
How to Keep Maggots From Coming Back
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