Gina Heslop
Ah, summer. It’s the favorite season for many people, bringing warmth, greenery, and plenty of sunshine. While there are many wonderful aspects of summer, there are a few things most of us would rather do without.
One of these is wasps. These insects can ruin a BBQ, disrupt a garden party, and cause people to run for cover. Though wasps are important to the ecosystem, their presence can be quite bothersome.
Luckily, most of us don’t have to deal with wasps regularly. However, mail carriers often do. A recent Reddit post brought attention to the challenges mail carriers face with wasps, particularly yellowjackets, which often build nests inside mailboxes.
For wasps, mailboxes are perfect spots: they’re sheltered, hidden, and warm at night. Unfortunately, this means mail carriers frequently encounter wasps while delivering mail, resulting in stings.
Despite being a hazard of the job, there’s a simple solution to keep wasps away: scented dryer sheets. The scent of these sheets acts as a deterrent for wasps, preventing them from nesting in mailboxes. Here’s how you can use this hack:
- Select a scented dryer sheet: Choose one with a strong fragrance.
- Tape the sheet inside the mailbox: Secure the sheet so it stays in place.
- Replace the dryer sheet regularly: Ensure the scent remains strong by periodically swapping in a new sheet.
By following these steps, you can help protect mail carriers from wasp stings. This simple method can make a big difference, especially during the summer months when wasps are most active.
So, if you find a dryer sheet in your mailbox, it’s likely there to keep wasps at bay and ensure the safety of your mail carrier. This small act can go a long way in making their job easier and safer. Share this tip with others to spread the word and help our hardworking mail carriers this summer.
