Flies are a part of our ecosystem. They help to break down most bio-degradable stuff. But if you allow them in your home they will try to break you down as well. This can be very stressful as they can cross-contaminate and cause illnesses or try to lay their nasty eggs on our food. And we surely do not want that. In that case, we have to send them a strong message so they know they are to stay away from our property. Here are some tips that will help you to send them the message they need.
Avoid sweet-smelling fragrances
Flies are attracted to sweet scents, including certain perfumes, lotions, or body products. When spending time outdoors, consider using unscented or lightly scented personal care products to minimize the attraction of flies.
Use fans
Flies are weak fliers and find it challenging to fly in areas with strong air currents. Set up fans in your outdoor spaces to create a breeze that discourages flies from approaching. Position the fans strategically to maximize their effect. For example, place them near seating or dining areas to keep flies away from you and your guests.
Consider natural deterrents:
There are several natural substances that flies dislike. Cloves have a strong scent that repels flies, so you can place whole cloves in a bowl or tie them in a cheesecloth and hang them in outdoor areas. You can also stick some cloves in some oranges and place them around. Lemongrass is another natural deterrent, and you can plant lemongrass or tie up cheesecloth all over with dried lemongrass.
Set up fly traps:
Fly traps are designed to attract and capture flies. There are various types available, including sticky traps and baited traps. Sticky traps use a sticky surface to trap flies when they land on it, while baited traps attract flies with a combination of attractants and then trap them. Place these traps away from your seating or dining areas, preferably near potential fly breeding sites like garbage bins or compost piles.
Cover food and drinks:
When enjoying outdoor meals or picnics, cover your food and drinks as much as possible. Flies are attracted to the scent of food, so using mesh food covers or food umbrellas can help prevent flies from landing on your meals. It’s particularly important to cover sweet or sugary foods, as flies are highly attracted to them.
Plant insect-repellent herbs:
Some herbs naturally repel flies due to their strong scents. Planting these herbs around your outdoor areas can help deter flies. Basil, mint, lavender, and rosemary are known to have insect-repellent properties. Consider creating small herb gardens or placing potted herbs strategically near seating areas or entry points to discourage flies from lingering.
Install screens:
If you have a screened-in porch, gazebo, or outdoor seating area, make sure the screens are in good condition and properly sealed. This prevents flies from entering the area while still allowing fresh air to flow through. Repair any holes or tears in the screens to maintain an effective barrier against flies.
Use fly repellents:
Insect repellents containing ingredients like DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide), picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus can be effective in repelling flies. Apply these repellents to exposed skin and clothing according to the instructions on the packaging. Be sure to follow safety precautions, especially when using them on children.
Use citronella candles or torches:
Citronella is a natural plant-based repellent that flies find unpleasant. Citronella candles or torches emit a scent that deters flies. Place them strategically around your outdoor areas, such as patios, decks, or camping sites. Keep in mind that the effectiveness of citronella may vary depending on factors like wind and the size of the area you’re trying to protect.
Keep your outdoor spaces clean
Flies are attracted to odors emanating from garbage, decaying matter, and leftover food. Regularly clean up food spills, remove trash promptly, and ensure your outdoor cooking and dining areas are clean. Wipe down surfaces, wash dishes, and clean your grill after use. By eliminating or minimizing potential food sources, you can reduce fly populations in your outdoor spaces.
Depending on your location and the activities that take place there, you may need to apply more than one of these methods to have efficacy. So be sure to test and observe until you have come up with the best possible solution for your specific environment.
10 Tips You Need To Repel Flies From Around Your Home
Flies are all around us to do their part in the ecosystem. but they need to be monitored properly as they are very invasive, to say the least. These tips will help to get them under control.
Instructions
- Avoid sweet-smelling fragrances on your clothes or body as this will attract them.
- Use a fan to keep them away from specific areas.
- Consider using natural deterrents such as cloves or lemongrass to keep them at bay.
- Set up fly traps to catch as much as you can. Fly traps will naturally attract them so as soon as they come and realize that it is there they will jump right in.
- Cover food and drinks to ensure flies don't get on them.
- Plant insect-repellent herbs. This will help to keep the flies at bay as long as the scent of the plant is potent. Sometimes you could break a bunch of the plant leaves to allow the scent to escape into the air and sent a message to the flies.
- Use insect screens where ever possible.
- Use essential oils that repel flies. Either sprinkle it around or place it in a defuser to keep flies away.
- Use citronella candles or torches to give yourself some light or a good vibe. It will change things for the entire environment.
- Keep your outdoor space clean because flies try to monitor everything that is bio-degradable. Anything not moved out of their way will naturally attract them. You want to repel them so do not keep what they want in a place that can access those things.
