Introduction
Dealing with flies in the house can be a frustrating and unpleasant experience. Flies not only carry diseases but they can also be a nuisance during meal times and outdoor activities. This article will discuss some effective ways to get rid of flies in your home. From simple DIY traps to natural methods, there are plenty of ways to keep your home fly-free.
DIY Fly Traps
One of the easiest ways to get rid of flies at home is to use traps. DIY fly traps are simple to make and effective in trapping flies. There are several types of traps that you can make using common household items.
1. Vinegar trap: Vinegar is a natural fly repellent and works well in trapping them. Take a jar or bowl and add some apple cider vinegar to it. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap tightly and poke a few holes in it. Flies are attracted to the vinegar and will be trapped inside.
2. Sticky trap: A sticky trap is an effective method of trapping flies. Take a jar or a plastic bottle and fill it with sugar water or any other sweet liquid. Use paper or cardstock to make a cone and place it into the jar. The narrow end should point down while the broad end should be at the top. Flies will be attracted to the sweet liquid and fly into the jar, but they won’t be able to fly out due to the narrow end of the cone.
3. Milk, sugar, and pepper trap: Take a plate and add milk, sugar, and pepper powder to it. The flies will be attracted to the sweet smell of sugar and get stuck to the milk due to the stickiness. The pepper powder will make it difficult for them to fly away.
Natural Methods
Using natural methods to keep flies away is a great alternative to chemical solutions. Natural remedies are gentle on the environment and on your health. Here are some natural remedies that you can use:
1. Lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus oil: Flies dislike the strong scent of lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus oil. Place a few drops of any of these oils on a piece of cloth and hang it in areas where flies are commonly found.
2. Basil plant: Basil is a herb that is useful in repelling flies. Place a potted basil plant on your windowsill or near the door. As the plant releases its scent, it will keep the flies away.
3. Citronella candle: Citronella is a natural insect repellent and works well in keeping flies away. Light a citronella candle in your outdoor area or in the house to repel flies.
Keep the House Clean
Cleanliness plays a crucial role in preventing flies from breeding and invading your home. Proper food storage and disposal is important to keep flies away. Here are some tips to keep your home clean:
1. Dispose of your garbage frequently: Keep your garbage cans covered and dispose of the garbage frequently. Do not let food waste pile up in the kitchen.
2. Wipe down kitchen counters and surfaces: Wipe down kitchen counters and surfaces after food preparation to remove any leftover crumbs.
3. Store food in airtight containers: Store food in airtight containers to prevent flies from accessing it.
Set up Screens
Proper screening is an effective way to prevent flies from entering your home. Screens on windows and doors offer a barrier against flying insects and pests. Here’s how to set up screens:
1. Install screens on windows and doors: Measure the size of your windows and doors and purchase screens that fit. Use a screen frame and attach the screen mesh to it using a spline.
2. Repair any holes in your screens: Holes in screens can provide a point of entry for flies. Repair any holes in your screens to ensure their effectiveness.
Use Electronic Fly Zappers
If you are seeking a more electronic approach to fly control, fly zappers may be the answer. They are effective in killing flies and work by attracting flies to a light source and zapping them with an electric shock. Here are some things to consider:
1. Pros and cons: Fly zappers are effective in killing flies in large numbers but can also be noisy and may not be effective in all settings.
2. Brands: Some of the best fly zapper brands in the market include Flowtron, Dynatrap, and Hoont. You can purchase one of these online or at your local store.
Seeking Professional Help
If your fly infestation is particularly serious, you may need to call in the professionals. Pest control companies specialize in fly extermination and can provide effective solutions to your fly problem. Here are some of the top pest control companies:
1. Orkin: Orkin is a renowned pest control company that provides excellent services for fly control.
2. Terminix: Terminix has been in the pest control business for over 90 years and is known for their effective and safe pest control services.
3. Rentokil: Rentokil is a global pest control company that provides reliable and affordable pest control services.
Conclusion
Getting rid of flies in your home may seem like a daunting task, but there are many effective ways to keep your home fly-free. From DIY traps to natural methods, cleanliness, setting up screens, and using electronic fly zappers, there is no excuse for living with a fly infestation. Take action to make your home a fly-free zone today.
Final tip: Remember to keep your home clean and clear of food scraps and spills to prevent flies from breeding.
