Keeping flies away from your outdoor gatherings can be a frustrating battle. But what if you could repel these pesky insects using simple household items? This article reveals effective and easy tricks to keep flies at bay, allowing you to enjoy your meals and relaxation time outdoors in peace. We’ll explore the popular penny trick, discuss other natural fly repellents, and answer frequently asked questions about fly control.
How To Keep Flies Away Outside
The Penny and Water Fly Repellent: Does it Work?
A simple yet surprisingly effective method for deterring flies involves using just pennies and water. This trick, often referred to as the “penny trick,” has been passed down through generations and boasts anecdotal success. But how does it work? There are two popular methods for employing this technique.
Method 1: Pennies in a Glass of Water
This method is incredibly straightforward.
What You Need:
- Several clear glasses
- Water
- Pennies
How to Do It:
- Fill each glass with water.
- Place a few pennies (4-5) at the bottom of each glass.
- Distribute the glasses around your outdoor space, placing them on tables and near food.
Dropping a penny in a full glass of water to keep flies away
The visual disruption of light reflecting off the pennies and water is thought to confuse flies, deterring them from landing.
Method 2: The Water Bag Trick
This variation utilizes a sealed bag of water and pennies. It’s a great option for smaller spaces or situations where spilled glasses are a concern.
What You Need:
- Resealable plastic bags (sandwich or quart-sized)
- Water
- Pennies
- Mason jar (optional, for easier filling)
How to Do It:
- Place the plastic bag inside a mason jar for stability (optional).
- Fill the bag about ¾ full with water.
- Drop several pennies into the bag.
- Seal the bag tightly, ensuring no leaks.
- Hang the bags around your outdoor area.
Pennies in a bag of water
Why Does the Penny Trick Work? Theories and Observations
While the exact mechanism isn’t fully understood, several theories attempt to explain the penny trick’s effectiveness. One prominent theory suggests that the light refracting through the water and off the pennies creates a visual disturbance that disorients flies, making it difficult for them to land. Another theory posits that flies perceive the pennies as the compound eyes of a larger predator, triggering an instinctual avoidance response.
Anecdotal evidence suggests that tarnished pennies may be more effective than shiny ones, potentially due to the altered light reflection. Experimentation with different penny types and quantities can help optimize the effectiveness of this method.
Other Natural Fly Repellents: Plants and More
Beyond the penny trick, several other natural methods can help keep flies away. Certain plants emit scents that flies find repulsive. Consider incorporating these plants into your outdoor space:
- Sweet Basil: A culinary herb with a fragrant aroma that flies dislike.
- Lavender: Known for its calming scent, lavender also acts as a natural fly repellent.
- Rosemary: This aromatic herb is a common ingredient in cooking and a deterrent to flies.
- Mint: The strong scent of mint is effective in repelling various insects, including flies.
A picnic table full of food
Additional Fly-Fighting Tactics
For stubborn fly infestations or large gatherings, additional measures may be necessary. Consider using food tents to cover dishes, preventing flies from landing on your food. Battery-operated fly-repelling fans can also provide an extra layer of defense by creating air currents that deter flies.
food tents for repelling flies outdoors on food
Conclusion: Enjoy a Fly-Free Outdoor Experience
Dealing with flies outdoors doesn’t have to be a constant struggle. By employing the penny trick, incorporating fly-repelling plants, and utilizing other natural methods, you can significantly reduce fly populations and enjoy a more pleasant outdoor experience. Remember to experiment to find the most effective combination of techniques for your specific environment.
