Flies are particularly annoying insects and their presence can quickly become unbearable in our homes. To avoid being invaded by these pests and be able to enjoy your home peacefully, it is essential to know a few simple and effective tips to eliminate them. In this article, we present to you 3 foolproof methods to scare away these intruders and find a healthy and soothing interior.
1. Make sure you keep a clean environment
To avoid attracting flies and preventing their intrusion, it is important to eliminate what attracts them in the first place. In general, this includes waste, odors and anything else that could provide a source of food or water for these pests. Here are some recommendations:
Maintain an Impeccable Kitchen
Flies are particularly attracted to food scraps and dirt. It is therefore essential to keep your kitchen as clean as possible by following these tips:
- Avoid leaving dirty dishes lying around, even if they have not been washed immediately after use; use a dishwasher or store it temporarily in a closed container.
- Wipe work surfaces and utensils as soon as they have been used.
- Dispose of waste regularly in a covered trash can, which you will take out as often as necessary to avoid any overflow.
Waste management and odor reduction
Flies are also very sensitive to odors and especially to the scents coming from trash cans. It is therefore advisable to be attentive to the management of your waste:
- Seal garbage bags tightly and make sure the trash can lid is always tightly closed.
- If possible, store your waste outside your home until it can be collected.
- Remember to wash your trash cans regularly to remove residue that could attract flies.
2. Make your own natural fly traps
It is difficult to completely prevent flies from entering your home, even if you follow all the hygiene rules mentioned above. However, there are simple, natural solutions to capture these annoying insects without using potentially toxic chemicals. Here are two options that you can easily implement:
Apple cider vinegar trap
This trap is very simple to make and requires little equipment:
- A glass or transparent plastic container (bottle, jar, etc.).
- Apple cider vinegar.
- A funnel or paper to make a homemade funnel.
Pour a small amount of apple cider vinegar into the chosen container. Next, place the funnel over the opening of the container so that the flies are attracted to the smell of the vinegar and can sink in without being able to get out. This method is extremely effective.
Sugar and fruit trap
This second option is just as easy to implement:
- A container with a tight-fitting lid but pierced with small holes.
- Pieces of ripe fruit (banana, apple, grapes, etc.).
- A little bit of sugar.
Place the pieces of fruit and the sugar in the container, then close it with its perforated lid. Flies will quickly be attracted by the smell of fruit and sugar, and they will enter the trap without being able to come out thanks to the calibrated holes.
3. Use natural repellents to keep flies away
In order to dissuade these small insects from taking up residence in your home, it is possible to use natural repellents which give off fragrances that are not appreciated by flies:
Essential oils
Several essential oils have repellent properties against flies and other flying insects:
- Lavender.
- Lemon eucalyptus.
- Rose geranium.
- The Basilic.
To benefit from their effectiveness, simply apply a few drops of essential oil to a support (handkerchief, cotton pad, etc.) or diffuse them into the ambient air with a suitable diffuser.
Repellent plants
Certain plant species also have the ability to repel flies thanks to their particular active ingredients. Among them :
- Tansy.
- Fragrant geranium.
- Peppermint.
- The Basilic.
By placing these plants around your windows or doors, you will create a natural barrier against the intrusion of flies into your home.
There are many simple and ecological methods to eliminate flies effectively and sustainably. Don’t hesitate to experiment with these tips and adapt your strategy according to your needs and your environment!
