Tired of dealing with flies in your home and worried about toxic sprays? I totally understand! No one wants chemicals anywhere near their food or family. The good news is that there are natural and incredibly effective ways to keep flies away.
Here are 3 tips you can use right now to get rid of these unwanted insects without resorting to harmful products:
- Herbs and Aromatic Plants: Powerful Natural Repellents
Flies hate certain scents that we find pleasant. Use this to your advantage!
Basil: This common herb is an excellent natural repellent for flies. Place pots of basil near windows, doors or on the kitchen counter. The strong scent keeps flies away.
Mint: Similar to basil, mint has an aroma that flies find unbearable. A pot of fresh mint in your kitchen or on your porch can do wonders.
Bay leaves: Dried or fresh bay leaves are also effective. You can gently burn them (carefully and in a safe place, of course) to release their aroma, or simply sprinkle a few leaves in problem areas.
Citronella: Although best known for mosquitoes, citronella also helps keep flies away with its strong, citrusy scent. Citronella candles or essential oils can be helpful.
Tip: If you don’t have plants, you can use cheesecloth bags filled with dried herbs (basil, mint, rosemary, bay leaves) and hang them up. You can also put a few drops of essential oil (peppermint, lavender, citronella, eucalyptus) in a diffuser or on cotton balls in small bowls.
- Vinegar and Essential Oil Solutions: Homemade Traps and Sprays
Vinegar is a versatile ingredient for cleaning and also for repelling pests.
Apple Cider Vinegar Trap: Flies are attracted to the fermented smell of apple cider vinegar, but once inside, they are trapped.
In a small cup or bowl, pour about 2 inches of apple cider vinegar.
Add 1-2 drops of dish soap (this breaks the surface tension of the liquid, causing the flies to sink).
Cover the cup with plastic wrap and poke a few small holes in the top. The flies will get in, but they can’t get out.
Place these traps in areas where flies are a problem.
Vinegar and Peppermint Spray:
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
Add 10-15 drops of peppermint (or lavender, or eucalyptus) essential oil.
Shake well and spray on surfaces (wipe clean afterwards to avoid lingering vinegar smell), trash cans, or in the air in areas with flies. Test in an inconspicuous area first to make sure it doesn’t stain.
- Thorough Cleaning and Prevention: The Best Defense
The best way to combat flies is to prevent them from making themselves at home! They are attracted to food scraps, moisture, and dirt.
Constant Cleaning:
Don’t leave food out in the open: Store everything in airtight containers or in the refrigerator.
Clean up crumbs and spills immediately: Especially in the kitchen and on tables.
Wash dirty dishes promptly: Don’t let them pile up in the sink.
Empty trash cans regularly: Especially organic trash cans. Keep trash cans tightly closed.
Manage trash: If you have outdoor trash cans, make sure they are well sealed and away from entrances to your home. Wash them regularly.
Reduce Humidity: Flies love humidity.
Fix leaks, keep sinks and showers dry.
Physical Barriers:
Screens on windows and doors: If possible, install or repair screens on openings to prevent them from entering.
Close doors and windows: Keep your doors and windows closed, especially during peak fly activity.
With these natural tips and a little consistency, you can enjoy a much more fly-free environment without the need for toxic sprays.
Which of these tips will you try first to keep your home fly-free?