Keep It Clean
One of the best ways to deter pests is to keep your dumpster clean. Make sure to:
- Empty it regularly so waste does not accumulate. Dumpsters should be emptied 1-2 times per week.
- Rinse out the dumpster with a hose to remove food residue, grease, etc.
- Use disinfectants or bleach solution to sanitize the interior surfaces. This helps eliminate odors that attract pests.
- Pick up any litter surrounding the dumpster. Don’t allow waste to accumulate on the ground.
- Make sure the lid closes tightly and remains closed when not in use.
Manage Food Waste Properly
Food waste is one of the biggest attractants for pests. To discourage them:
- Avoid putting excess food down the drain that could clog pipes. Compost it if possible.
- Wrap or contain food waste securely before placing in dumpster. Do not place loose scraps.
- Empty dumpster frequently to avoid buildup of rotting food waste.
- Rinse recyclable food containers to remove residues before recycling.
Work With Your Waste Management Company
Your waste management company may offer additional services or products to help:
- Schedule more frequent waste collection during warmer months when pests are most active.
- Use a dumpster that has a rotating compactor to compress waste. Less exposed surface area means less access for pests.
- Treat dumpster with non-toxic pest deterrents – some companies provide this service.
- Replace old dumpsters with new ones that have tighter-sealing lids.
Maintain the Surrounding Area
Pests will be less likely to inhabit the dumpster area if it is clean and well-maintained:
- Keep area around dumpster free of weeds, overgrown vegetation, and other debris.
- Ensure proper drainage around the dumpster so water does not accumulate.
- Seal any cracks or holes in the asphalt/concrete pad that the dumpster sits on.
- Use outdoor lights or motion-activated lights around dumpster area at night. Light repels pests.
Work with a Pest Control Company
For severe infestations, contact a licensed pest control company. They can:
- Inspect dumpster and surrounding area and develop a treatment plan.
- Apply pesticides and bait stations around the dumpster if needed.
- Provide tips on modifications to make your dumpster setup less pest-friendly.
- Offer preventative maintenance treatments on a regular schedule.
With some diligence regarding cleanliness and working with waste management providers, pests can be prevented from becoming an issue in your dumpsters. Consistent monitoring and upkeep are key. Addressing problems quickly can help avoid major infestations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Preventing Pests in Dumpsters
Q: How often should I have my dumpster emptied to avoid pests?
A: It’s recommended to have your dumpster emptied 1-2 times per week during warm weather when pests are most prevalent. For indoor dumpsters, twice a week is ideal.
Q: What signs could indicate the start of a pest problem?
A: Droppings, chew marks, holes in bags, foul odors, insects visible on or around dumpster are possible signs. Act quickly at the first evidence before issue grows.
Q: Can I put food waste in my outdoor dumpster?
A: Yes but it’s best to contain it in sealed bags first rather than loose. And ensure dumpster is emptied frequently to avoid rotting food waste inside.
Q: What temperature should I wash out my dumpster with?
A: 140° F water temperature is recommended. This sufficiently kills bacteria. Always use protective gear when cleaning dumpsters.
Q: How can I modify my dumpster to make it less appealing to pests?
A: Ensure tight-sealing lids, elevated design, smooth interior surfaces, push bars to compress waste are features to look for when purchasing new dumpsters.
Q: Will pest control chemicals harm the environment around my dumpster?
A: Many modern pesticides are specifically engineered to be low toxicity and not harmful to surroundings. Still, only licensed pros should apply them.
Conclusion
Preventing pests in your outdoor dumpsters requires vigilance, but just following basic cleanliness and waste containment guidelines can go a long way. Partnering with waste management and pest control pros provides extra protection. With smart dumpster practices, you can help keep pests away and maintain a clean, sanitary waste area. Consistent monitoring and quick response to any issues that arise is key to success.