Family Shocked After Discovering Scrap Bucket Crawling With Maggots Weeks After Relative Forgot to Empty It
ILLINOIS — What started as a small household oversight turned into a disgusting surprise when a local family discovered their kitchen scrap bucket teeming with maggots — weeks after a relative promised to empty it before leaving for an overseas trip. The shocking image posted online shows the inside of the black compost bin crawling with tiny white larvae and a few forgotten banana peels.
The Forgotten Chore That Led to a Nightmare
According to the post, the homeowner assumed their family member had emptied the kitchen’s organic waste bucket before flying abroad. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen. The sealed bucket sat in the corner of the kitchen for days in warm temperatures, creating a perfect breeding ground for maggots and fruit flies. “They were supposed to empty the scrap bucket before they went overseas — clearly, they didn’t and didn’t tell me,” the frustrated post read.
Viral Reaction and Household Horror Stories
The stomach-churning image quickly went viral online, with thousands of users reacting in horror — and sympathy. Many commenters admitted to experiencing similar compost or trash disasters during summer heatwaves, where organic waste quickly decomposes and attracts pests. “That’s my worst nightmare come true,” one person wrote. Others offered cleanup advice, suggesting boiling water, bleach spray, and vinegar disinfectant to sanitize the container and surrounding area.
A family member was supposed to empty the scrap bucket before they went overseas and clearly they didn’t and didn’t tell me….
byu/issybissy249 inmildlyinfuriating
Experts Warn About Compost Hygiene
Pest control experts say warm, damp compost bins can attract insects in just 48 hours if not maintained properly. “Any food waste that sits uncovered or sealed without airflow will decompose faster and draw in flies,” said a local sanitation specialist. They recommend emptying compost buckets every two to three days, even if they appear partially full, especially during warmer months.
The family has since cleaned and disinfected the area but says they’ll double-check chores next time before anyone leaves for vacation. The ordeal has served as a messy reminder that even small tasks can have big consequences if left undone.
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