Since the introduction of a deposit on cans, many people now keep them at home to return. A great sustainable step, because this reduces litter and encourages recycling. But what is often overlooked is that empty cans, even when they are almost empty, can attract various types of vermin. In this blog you can read why this happens, which pests you can encounter, and how you can prevent this.
The introduction of a deposit on cans: a sustainable initiative with a downside
In April 2023, the Netherlands introduced a deposit on cans . For every can you return, you now get €0.15 back. This seems like a win-win: less litter on the streets and an incentive to recycle. But now that we keep empty cans at home longer before returning them, a new problem arises. Even if they seem empty, leftover soda or beer can attract insects and other vermin.
What pests are attracted to empty cans?
Empty cans may seem harmless, but they can become a source of trouble without you even noticing them if you don’t store them properly. Leftover soda or beer is often enough to attract all sorts of pests, even if it’s just a few drops. Sugars and other nutrients in these leftovers are exactly what many insects and rodents love. Let’s take a look at what unwanted guests you can expect if you’re not careful, and how they’re attracted to the sweetness and smells of the cans.
Ants: looking for sweets
Ants are masters at finding food, and they have a particular fondness for sweets. Even a small amount of soda can be enough to start an ant trail. One ant discovers the sugar, leaves a scent trail, and before you know it, a whole colony is running through your kitchen. This can be especially annoying in the spring and summer, when ants are most active.
Cockroaches: Omnivores That Love Sugar
Cockroaches are known as non-picky omnivores. They are attracted to the smell of sweet leftovers in cans and also like to seek out damp places. If you store the cans in a basement or utility room, there is a good chance that cockroaches will be attracted to them. They can reproduce quickly and form a serious pest once they have established themselves in your home.
Fruit flies: fast and annoying
Fruit flies are attracted to the smell of fermented soda or beer residue. Even after you have finished the can, there are often still a few drops left. Fruit flies like to lay their eggs in these residues, which can cause a lot of flies in your home in a short time.
Mice: opportunistic rodents
Mice are often attracted to the smell of sugar and may even try to gnaw open the cans. They also find an ideal environment to nest in damp areas with lots of waste. One mouse may seem harmless, but they can quickly become a plague.
Wasps: dangerous and looking for sweets
Wasps are a particular problem in the summer when they seek out sweet food sources. If there is any leftover soda on the outside of a can, it can attract wasps, which can lead to nasty stings if you unsuspectingly take a sip.
How can you prevent pests from empty cans?
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Rinse your cans before storing them
Rinsing the cans with water will remove almost all of the sugars that attract ants, cockroaches and other insects. -
Store cans in a dry, closed place
Damp environments are ideal for cockroaches and mice, so choose a dry storage location and preferably use a closed container to store the cans. -
Return your cans regularly
Don't leave empty cans out for too long. Especially in the warmer months, this can cause problems with vermin. By returning them regularly, you prevent them from becoming a magnet for vermin.
What to do if you already have ants or cockroaches?
Of course, it can happen that despite all precautions you still get pest problems. Don't panic! At aaltjestegenongedierte.nl we offer effective, organic solutions:
- Nematodes against ants: These little creatures combat ants naturally and reduce the nuisance without harmful chemicals.
- Nematodes against cockroaches: Our organic nematodes are a safe and sustainable solution to tackle cockroaches , even in humid environments.
Recycling Without Pests? Here’s How!
Deposit on cans is a great initiative for the environment, but it also brings new challenges. By rinsing your cans properly and storing them in the right place, you prevent them from attracting unwanted guests. And if you do get a pest problem, we are ready with natural solutions that work.
