A Minty Fresh Solution

To keep flies and their larvae away from your trash cans, you need two items that you might already have on hand: cotton balls and peppermint essential oil.

On your next collection day, deep-clean your empty trash can by hosing it out and using a long-handled brush to scrub the interior with boiling water and dish soap. Dump the sudsy water, give the can a final rinse, and leave the lid open to air-dry. After that, place several peppermint oil-soaked cotton balls at the bottom of the can before closing the lid. (You can use this trick for both outdoor cans and your kitchen trash.)

Why does this work? Peppermint oil is rich in menthol and menthone. While many people find the scent refreshing, it overwhelms a fly’s olfactory system. By masking the scent of the trash and disrupting the flies’ sensory receptors, the oil makes it difficult for these winged pests to find their way to the bin. Beyond flies and maggots, peppermint oil also deters ants, moths, mosquitoes, spiders, cockroaches, aphids, and wasps. For best results, replace these “peppermint bombs” once a week.

Other Fixes for a Bug-Free Bin

No peppermint oil? No problem. Storing your bins in the shade is one of the easiest ways to slow down the decomposition that attracts pests in the first place. Flies are drawn to the gases and acids produced by decaying organic matter, which they can detect from up to 4 miles away. Eliminate that odor, and the flies will find somewhere else to land.

If you’re dealing with existing flies and maggots, there are alternatives to peppermint oil that you might already have on hand. Diatomaceous earth, which kills crawling bugs by dehydrating them from the inside out, is a popular choice. While less effective for adult flies, sprinkling diatomaceous earth in and around your bins will stop maggots from maturing. Pouring a generous layer of table salt into the bottom of your cans can also dry out and kill larvae.

Additionally, washing your cans with a mixture of warm water, dish soap, and vinegar helps remove the sticky residue that attracts flies. A diluted bleach solution is an even stronger sanitizing method, but never mix it with vinegar or ammonia, as this creates toxic fumes. For a more fragrant deterrent, toss in some citrus rinds like lemon or grapefruit — just be sure to remove them before they start to decompose. Fresh bay leaves have also been known to discourage infestations.

A Stress-Free Way To Clean Behind Your Toilet

If you’ve ever hit a wall (literally) while attempting to clean behind the toilet, you know that regular brushes are simply too cumbersome. Tackling this tight space requires a narrow scrub brush with a slim profile and elongated bristles.

The brush is useful on its own for light cleanings, but if the area behind your toilet needs some extra love, reach for a roll of paper towels. Wrap a sheet of paper towel around the bristles and spray it with your go-to cleaner before sliding the brush behind the toilet base and tank. This method picks up any dust or grime that may have been lurking in those overlooked areas. When you’re done, simply toss the paper towel. The extra layer also keeps your brush in good shape and ready for more cleanings to come.

One Pack, Endless Cleaning Uses

Since these narrow scrub brushes typically come in a multipack, you can use them for different cleaning tasks without worrying about cross-contamination. Designate one specifically for the toilet area and another for scrubbing around faucets and sink drains. The remaining brushes are ideal for cleaning window and sliding door tracks, the dryer’s lint trap compartment, and the rubber gasket around your dishwasher.

The Polishing Staple From Your Pantry

We love this hack because it makes a stainless steel sink sparkle in seconds for just pennies. The secret ingredient is all-purpose flour — the same variety you likely have in your cupboard. If you’re short on supplies, check your local community food pantry, as flour is a frequently donated staple.

The key to success is starting with a completely dry sink. Add a handful of flour to the basin and buff it into the metal with a soft towel, focusing on particularly gunky areas like around the drain.

Because flour is micro-abrasive, it lifts away tiny bits of grime that soap often misses, leaving your sink looking brand-new. Just remember to wipe out the flour before you rinse to keep your pipes clear.

Alternatives for a Sparkling Sink

A streak-free finish starts with a quality microfiber cloth — not a paper towel. Microfiber picks up dust and debris without damaging surfaces or leaving streaks — a must for large, visible surfaces like your sink.

For an easy DIY polish, a 50/50 mix of olive oil and vinegar works wonders. Add the solution to a spray bottle and spritz a thin layer onto the stainless steel. Always wipe with the grain of the metal to effectively remove fingerprints and smudges. If you prefer a ready-made product, Zep Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish is a budget-friendly favorite among cleaning pros, while Weiman offers an excellent nonaerosol formula.