How to Keep Flies Out of Your Home All Summer Long

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Learn how to keep flies out of your home all summer long with a few practical tips. Discover natural repellents, homemade traps, and preventative measures to enjoy a fly-free summer.

Ah, summer! The warm weather is perfect for outdoor activities, barbecues, and spending time with family and friends. But with the warmer months come those pesky flies. How to Keep Flies Out of Your Home All Summer Long can be challenging, but it’s possible with a few preventative measures. 

These pesky flies can be annoying, and keeping flies out of your home all summer can be a real challenge. Growing up, I remember my grandmother hanging these sticky strips on the ceiling. There would be so many flies on that thing. Although it did help, there are other alternatives to help you keep those annoying flies out of the house. I have found that the best way to tackle this problem is by combining preventative measures and natural remedies. 

Here are 7 tips to help you enjoy a fly-free home this season.

Seal Entry Points

Flies, from house flies to fruit flies, can enter your home through the smallest gaps. To keep unwanted flies out, inspect your home for small holes and tiny gaps around windows, doors, and plumbing leaks. Use caulk to seal these entry points and install tight-fitting lids on trash cans.

Use Natural Repellents

Natural repellents like essential oils are an effective way to deter flies. Mix a few drops of these oils, such as tea tree or eucalyptus, with water in a spray bottle. Spray this mixture around entry points and common problem areas. Citronella candles are also great for outdoor use, keeping flies away from your picnic table and outdoor seating area.

Keep Garbage Cans Clean

Garbage cans, especially those with food waste, can attract swarms of flies. To reduce the number of flies, ensure your trash cans have tight-fitting lids and are emptied regularly. Clean the cans with a solution of water and a few drops of dish soap to remove any residual odors that might attract flies.

Eliminate Food Sources

Flies are attracted to food sources like overripe produce, old meat, and even dirty dishes. Store food in airtight containers, promptly clean up spills, and avoid leaving food out on counters. Also, make sure to regularly check and clean areas where organic matter might accumulate, such as behind appliances and under sinks.

Try Homemade Fly Traps

Homemade fly traps can be an easy way to reduce fly numbers. One effective method is to mix apple cider vinegar with a few drops of dish soap in a tall glass. The vinegar’s strong odor attracts flies, and the dish soap reduces the surface tension, causing the flies to drown. You can also use a bag of water with a penny in it; some swear it’s a good idea to deter flies naturally.

Plant Fly-Repelling Herbs

Certain plants, like fresh basil, bay leaves, and citronella, are known to repel flies. Plant these herbs in your garden bed or window boxes, or place potted plants around your outdoor area to keep flies at bay. These plants help reduce flies and add a pleasant aroma and beauty to your home.

Use Fly Traps and Swatters

For immediate results, fly traps and a trusty fly swatter can be your best friends. Sticky traps placed around your home can capture flies quickly. If you prefer a more proactive approach, a fly swatter can help you care for any flies that make it inside. For outdoor gatherings, consider using fly traps specifically designed for outdoor use.

Commonly Asked Questions for How to Keep Flies Out of Your Home All Summer Long

What are the most effective natural repellents to keep flies away?

Essential oils like tea tree, eucalyptus, and lavender are highly effective natural repellents. Mix a few drops of these oils with water in a spray bottle and apply the mixture around entry points and problem areas. Citronella candles are also great for outdoor use, helping to keep flies away from outdoor seating areas.

How can I prevent flies from entering my home in the first place?

To prevent flies from entering your home, seal all entry points, including small holes and gaps around windows, doors, and plumbing leaks. Ensure your trash cans have tight-fitting lids and are regularly emptied and cleaned. Installing screens on windows and doors can also help keep flies out while allowing fresh air in.

What are some homemade fly traps I can use?

One popular homemade fly trap involves mixing apple cider vinegar with a few drops of dish soap in a tall glass. The vinegar’s strong vinegar attracts flies, while the dish soap breaks the surface tension, causing them to drown. Another method is using a plastic wrap-covered jar with sugar water inside, punctured with small holes to trap flies.

Which plants can help repel flies naturally?

Certain plants are known for their fly-repelling properties. Fresh basil, bay leaves, and citronella plants can keep flies away. Plant these herbs in your garden bed or window boxes, or place potted plants around your outdoor area to naturally deter flies while adding beauty and fragrance to your home.

How can I manage fly infestations around garbage cans and food waste?

To manage fly infestations around garbage cans and food waste, ensure your trash cans have tight-fitting lids and are regularly emptied and cleaned. Use a water and dish soap solution to clean the cans and remove any residual odors. Additionally, store food waste in airtight containers and avoid leaving food on counters to minimize attractants for flies.

Final thoughts…

Keeping flies out of your home during the summer months requires a combination of these strategies. You can enjoy a fly-free home all season by sealing entry points, using natural repellents, keeping garbage cans clean, eliminating food sources, trying homemade traps, planting fly-repelling herbs, and using fly traps and swatters. If your fly problem persists, consulting a pest control expert might be necessary for the best results. Happy summer!

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