Summer often brings an unwelcome influx of flies into our homes. Sealing up every crack and crevice isn’t a practical solution, and resorting to harsh chemicals is undesirable. Fortunately, there are effective, natural ways to deter flies and keep your home fly-free. Let’s explore what flies dislike and how to use this knowledge to your advantage.
Natural Scents Flies Hate
Flies have a keen sense of smell, and certain aromas repel them effectively. Here are some natural scents that flies find particularly offensive:
Herbs and Spices Flies Despise
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Basil: The fragrant leaves of basil are a natural fly repellent. Placing potted basil plants in your kitchen or near entryways can help keep flies away. As a bonus, you’ll have fresh basil for cooking!
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Cloves: Flies strongly dislike the pungent smell of cloves. Placing bowls of dried cloves around your home can deter them. However, if you’re not fond of the scent of cloves, this might not be the best option for you.
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Cinnamon: This warm spice isn’t just for baking. Flies find the aroma of cinnamon unpleasant. Using cinnamon as an air freshener can help keep your home fly-free.
Flowers That Repel Flies
- Mint, Lavender, and Marigold: Planting these flowers in your garden or placing potted versions around your home creates a natural barrier against flies. Their scents disrupt a fly’s navigation and deter them from entering.
Essential Oils as Fly Repellents
- Lavender, Eucalyptus, Peppermint, and Lemongrass Essential Oils: Diffusing these essential oils not only creates a pleasant aroma in your home but also effectively repels flies. These potent scents overload a fly’s sensory receptors, making your home less appealing.
Trapping Flies Naturally
While repelling flies is a great preventative measure, sometimes you need to actively remove them. Here’s a natural fly trap you can easily make:
- Apple Cider Vinegar Trap: Flies are attracted to the sweet smell of fermenting fruit. Mix apple cider vinegar with a few drops of dish soap in a bowl. The vinegar attracts the flies, while the soap breaks the surface tension of the liquid, trapping them.
Maintaining a Fly-Free Environment
Beyond using repellents and traps, maintaining a clean home is crucial for fly control.
- Cleanliness: Flies are attracted to food debris and spills. Regularly cleaning your kitchen counters, wiping up spills promptly, and ensuring proper garbage disposal will significantly reduce fly attraction.
- Fruit Storage: Cover or refrigerate cut fruits to prevent flies from being drawn to their sweet scent.
By implementing these natural methods, you can effectively deter flies without resorting to harsh chemicals, creating a more pleasant and healthy environment for you and your family. Enjoy a fly-free summer!
