As the UK continues to experience hot weather, soaring temperatures present unique challenges for homeowners. One such issue is the escalation of smells and pests in bins, which homeowners are being advised to take extra measures against.

Bins, especially those in the kitchen, should be cleaned regularly as foul-smelling bins are known to attract more than just unpleasant odours. By routinely cleaning your indoor and outdoor bins, you can prevent odour build-up and reduce the risk of bacterial growth. While the stench from bins may be one of the less glamorous consequences of hot weather, it's important to address this ever prevalent problem in a timely and frequent manner, especially during warmer temperatures. When temperatures soar, so does the rate at which food waste decomposes. This not only generates potent odours, but also lures unwanted pests such as flies, maggots, and even rodents. To combat this, waste management experts suggest there's a readily available kitchen ingredient that can be purchased for less than £1 which could keep your bin from smelling during hot weather. 

Graham Matthews, a waste management expert at BusinessWaste.co.uk, has advised: "Keeping your wheelie bin clean reduces bad smells, germs, and stops pests. While it might not be the most glamorous job, spending time cleaning your bins every couple of months is a great way to stop insects like flies and maggots from taking over.

"There are some simple storage and disposal hacks that will prevent smells and pests at the source. Correct food waste disposal helps keep your bin clean, but it also means you'll be doing your bit for the environment."

Fortunately, there's a straightforward and cost-effective 65p solution to the persistent problem of smelly bins.

Adding bicarbonate of soda to the bottom of your bin — available for approximately 65p in supermarkets such as Sainsbury's, Tesco, Aldi — can help neutralise a variety of unpleasant odours. Bad bin smells are often caused by acidic substances released as food waste decomposes.

Bicarbonate of soda is an alkaline substance, which counteracts this, causing a chemical reaction that neutralises the smell. Bicarbonate of soda can also absorb 'bin juice' and other moisture, creating a less welcoming environment for bacteria that may contribute to foul odours.

In addition to the bicarbonate of soda hack, regular cleaning of bins with a bucket of warm water, a cloth, and some washing-up liquid should suffice. However, if your bin is particularly dirty, you can follow these instructions:

Base: Scrape out any thick bits of grime, dirt, or rubbish stuck that's stuck to the sides or bottom of the bin with a trowel or shovel. For a wheelie bin, lay it on its side and use a hose or pressure washer to blast away the dirt, pouring it out into a drain. Stand the bin upright and add the antibacterial spray, bleach, or eco-friendly alternative and swill it around the bottom. Leave to destroy the germs, then pour it out and rinse with clean water.

Sides: As you spray water into the base, ensure you get the sides as well to remove any bits of dirt. Cover the four sides with the antibacterial spray too and leave for as long as necessary to kill any germs. Next, scrub the sides clean with a mop or hard brush before pouring the cleaning solution in the base. After the bin is emptied of all liquids, leave it to dry, either on its side or upside down (you can also use a towel to speed up the process).

Lid: Once the bin's sides and base have been washed, move onto the lid. Simply wipe the underside clean with a cloth and warm water, then apply the antibacterial spray and leave for a few minutes. Rinse it off with a sponge or cloth and some fresh water and leave it to dry.

Ideally, food waste should be composted or placed in a separate food waste bin. If that's not feasible, ensure all food scraps are sealed in biodegradable bags or wrapped tightly before being put in the bin. Keep food waste in a smaller, sealed container whenever possible and only transfer it to the larger bin closer to collection day.

Always keep the lid closed - if your bin lid is open for extended periods, it can contribute to unpleasant odours. Keeping the lid shut reduces the amount of oxygen reaching your waste, which will slow down the aerobic bacteria responsible for breaking down waste and producing strong smells. 

Additionally, keeping the lid closed prevents pests like insects and rats from getting inside, which can contribute to bad smells by laying eggs and disturbing your waste.

Moving your wheelie bin out of direct sunlight when possible will slow down the decomposition of waste, reducing the chance of unpleasant odours developing.

A bin store can be a great solution, but if this isn't an option, look for a shaded spot on your property, preferably under shelter or in a garage.