Flies are an unwelcome guest at any gathering, buzzing around food, and generally being a nuisance. When the warmer months arrive and you’re trying to enjoy your outdoor spaces, these pests can quickly ruin the ambiance. Many seek quick and easy solutions, and bug repellent candles, particularly those containing citronella, often come to mind. But Do Bug Candles Keep Flies Away Too? Let’s delve into the effectiveness of bug candles, specifically citronella candles, against flies and explore other options for keeping these pesky insects at bay.
Understanding Bug Candles and Citronella
Bug candles are designed to repel insects, and the most common type utilizes citronella oil as the active ingredient. Citronella is a natural oil derived from citronella grass, known for its distinctive citrusy scent. This scent, pleasant to humans, is disliked by many insects, including mosquitoes and, importantly for our query, flies.
How Citronella Works to Repel Flies:
Citronella works primarily as a repellent, not an insecticide. When burned, citronella candles release citronella oil vapor into the air. This vapor masks the scents that attract flies, such as carbon dioxide and lactic acid from humans and animals. By disrupting their ability to locate hosts and food sources, citronella creates a zone that flies are less likely to enter or linger in.
Do Bug Candles Actually Work for Flies?
The effectiveness of citronella candles in repelling flies is a common question. While they aren’t a foolproof solution, research and anecdotal evidence suggest that citronella candles can indeed help to reduce fly activity in immediate areas.
Evidence and Effectiveness:
- Masking Effect: As mentioned, citronella’s primary mechanism is masking attractants. This means that in an area with a citronella candle burning, flies are less likely to be drawn in by human or food odors.
- Limited Range: It’s crucial to understand that citronella candles are most effective in close proximity. The vapor concentration diminishes as you move further away from the candle. Therefore, a single candle is unlikely to protect a large patio or garden.
- Environmental Factors: Wind plays a significant role in the effectiveness of bug candles. A strong breeze can quickly disperse the citronella vapor, reducing its repellent effect. In still air, the concentration of citronella will be higher and more effective.
- Citronella Concentration: The concentration of citronella oil in the candle also impacts its efficacy. Candles with higher concentrations of citronella are generally more effective.
Step 3- Use Fly Aromatics Such As Citronella (How To Keep Flies Away)
In summary, yes, bug candles, particularly citronella candles, can contribute to keeping flies away, especially in small, sheltered areas. However, they are not a comprehensive solution and their effectiveness depends on various factors.
Limitations of Bug Candles
While bug candles can be a helpful tool, it’s important to be aware of their limitations when it comes to fly control:
- Not a Perfect Solution: Bug candles provide repellent, not elimination. They discourage flies from being in an area, but won’t eradicate fly populations. For heavy infestations, additional methods are necessary.
- Limited Area Coverage: As previously mentioned, the effective range of a bug candle is limited. To protect a larger space, multiple candles might be required, placed strategically.
- Smoke and Scent: While the citronella scent is generally pleasant, some may find it overpowering or may be sensitive to smoke from the candle.
- Not Effective Against All Fly Species: Different fly species may react differently to citronella. Some flies might be more deterred than others.
- Maintenance: Bug candles need to be monitored and replaced as they burn down. They also require a stable, safe surface to prevent fire hazards.
Exploring Other Fly Repellent Options
To achieve more comprehensive fly control, or to supplement the use of bug candles, consider these alternative and complementary methods:
1. Natural Fly Repellent Sprays:
Just like candles, natural sprays can create an environment flies dislike. Many effective DIY sprays utilize readily available ingredients:
- Hydrogen Peroxide Spray: A mixture of ⅓ hydrogen peroxide and ⅔ water, sprayed on surfaces where flies congregate, can be surprisingly effective.
- Vodka Repellent: Flies (and mosquitoes) dislike vodka. A spray made with vodka, aloe vera juice, eucalyptus oil, and essential oil can be used on surfaces or even skin (with a patch test first).
- Mouthwash Spray: Alcohol-based mouthwash can be sprayed on patio furniture and surfaces to deter flies with its strong scent.
- Anise Oil Spray: Anise oil’s potent aroma repels bugs. Dilute a few drops in water for a surface spray.
- Essential Oil Blend: Combine witch hazel with citronella, eucalyptus, and lavender essential oils for a powerful bug-repelling spray.
- Lemongrass Oil Spray: Lemongrass essential oil mixed with hot water creates a citrusy repellent perfect for patios and homes.
Step 2- Use Natural Sprays That Repel Flies (How To Get Rid Of Flies)
2. Herbs That Repel Flies:
Certain herbs naturally deter flies with their scents. Planting these around your home or patio can create a natural fly-repelling barrier:
- Peppermint: Its strong, fresh scent is highly disliked by flies.
- Lemon Balm (Horsemint): Easy to grow and emits a strong citrus aroma.
- Citronella Grass: The source of citronella oil, very effective but sensitive to cold.
- Basil: Repels flies and mosquitoes, and is also great for cooking.
- Thyme: Another easy-to-grow herb that deters flies and mosquitoes and is culinary-friendly.
- Rosemary: Repels flies and other bugs and is drought-tolerant.
- Lavender: Used in commercial repellents, lavender has a strong scent flies avoid.
- Eucalyptus & Tea Tree: These Australian natives are known for their insect-repelling properties.
3. Prevention and Good Practices:
Often, the most effective fly control starts with prevention:
- Cleanliness: Keep your home and outdoor areas clean, especially after eating or gatherings. Promptly clean up food spills and properly seal garbage bags and bins.
- Lighting: Flies are attracted to light, particularly white lights. Use yellow bulbs or sodium vapor lights, especially outdoors, and minimize leaving lights on all night.
Step 1- Start With Prevention (How To Keep Flies Away From Home)
4. Natural Traps:
For active fly management, consider creating simple traps:
- Sugar-Water Trap: A jar with sugar water and a paper cone funnel can trap flies effectively.
- Milk, Sugar, and Pepper Trap: A heated mixture of milk, sugar, and pepper in bowls attracts and drowns flies.
5. Fans:
Simple fans can disrupt flies’ flight and make it difficult for them to land, especially around food areas like barbecues.
Are Bug Candles the Right Choice for You?
Pros of Bug Candles:
- Easy to Use: Simply light and place.
- Pleasant Scent (for most): Citronella is generally considered a pleasant, natural scent.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Candles can add ambiance to outdoor settings.
- Some Level of Repellency: They do offer some protection in immediate areas.
Cons of Bug Candles:
- Limited Coverage: Effective range is small.
- Not a Complete Solution: Won’t eliminate fly problems entirely.
- Wind Dependent: Effectiveness is reduced by wind.
- Smoke and Potential Irritation: Smoke and scent may bother some individuals.
- Maintenance and Safety: Need monitoring and safe placement.
When to Consider Bug Candles:
- For small patios, balconies, or picnic tables.
- As part of a multi-pronged approach to fly control.
- When ambiance and a pleasant scent are desired alongside some fly repellency.
When to Consider Alternatives:
- For large areas needing protection.
- For heavy fly infestations.
- If you are sensitive to smoke or strong scents.
- When seeking a more comprehensive and long-term fly control solution.
Conclusion
Do bug candles keep flies away too? Yes, to a degree. Citronella candles can be a useful part of your fly control strategy, especially for localized, short-term relief in calm conditions. However, to effectively manage flies around your home, it’s best to combine bug candles with other methods like natural sprays, repellent herbs, preventative measures, and traps. By using a combination of these strategies, you can create a more fly-free and enjoyable environment, allowing you to relax and enjoy your indoor and outdoor spaces without the constant annoyance of these buzzing pests. For severe or persistent fly problems, consulting with pest control professionals can provide more targeted and effective solutions.
