Bug Briefs

Recycling Can Cause Pest Problems

Nowadays, everyone is concerned about the environment. One good way to protect it is to recycle -- everything from newspapers to plastics to aluminum cans. But the Florida Pest Management Association warns that without taking the proper precautions, recycling can be a way of inviting unwanted pests into your home.

Juice left in a carton, soda or beer left in a can or even applesauce from a glass jar can feed a hoard of flies, ants or roaches for days. So it is important to rinse out every container that you deposit in your recycling bin.

It is also a good idea to hose down the recycling bins on a regular basis. Without realizing it, many people allow foodstuffs to accumulate in the bottom of bins even if they are properly rinsing most food containers.

As the holiday season approaches many people will host parties where a recycling container may be placed in a kitchen or rec room. Be sure to take the bins outside or into the garage immediately after an event to eliminate the possibility of long-term unwanted guests.

Here are some other handy tips for people who recycle:

• Empty recycling bins frequently. If items are not routinely picked up at curbside, take them to the recycle center yourself. The trip is worth protecting your home and family's health.
• Use covered recycling containers whenever possible. Make sure that the lids on your trash cans are tightly covered, also.
• Wash plastic and metal recycling bins often. Consider lining them with a plastic bag to catch spills.
• Rinse all food and drink containers before placing them in bins. With particularly sticky, gooey foods, use a one to ten percent solution of dishwashing detergent in the water.
• Don't keep recycling bins in the kitchen. A garage or outer porch is much safer.
• Notify your pest control operator that the area where bins are stored may need special attention.

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