Introduction
If you’ve ever had a fly infestation, you know just how frustrating it can be. Flies are not only a nuisance, but they can also spread harmful bacteria and diseases. That’s why finding effective solutions for trapping flies is so important. In this article, we’ll explore 10 DIY fly traps, the best commercial traps on the market, and even how to use essential oils to repel flies. We’ll also delve into the science of fly behavior and provide a step-by-step guide to building your own fly zapper.
10 DIY Fly Traps that Actually Work
There are plenty of DIY fly traps that are both easy to make and effective. Here are 10 of the best:
1. Apple cider vinegar trap
This DIY trap is simple but effective. All you need is a jar filled with apple cider vinegar, a paper funnel, and a small piece of rotting fruit. The scent of the fruit will attract the flies, and once they enter the jar, they won’t be able to escape.
2. Paper cone trap
To make this trap, simply roll a piece of paper into a cone shape, leaving a small hole at the bottom. Place the cone into a jar filled with a sweet liquid like fruit juice or soda. The flies will crawl into the cone and get trapped inside the jar.
3. Soda bottle trap
Cut off the top of a soda bottle and invert it inside the bottom half. Fill the bottom with a sweet liquid like sugar water or soda, and add a few pieces of fruit or vegetables. The flies will fly into the bottle and won’t be able to find their way out.
4. Milk jug trap
For a more involved DIY trap, cut the top off a plastic milk jug and invert it into the bottom half. Add a few inches of sweet liquid like juice or soda, and poke holes in the sides of the jug near the top. The flies will crawl into the holes and won’t be able to escape.
5. Wine trap
Pour some leftover wine into a shallow dish and add a drop of dish soap. The soap will break the surface tension of the wine, causing the flies to sink and drown.
6. Flypaper trap
This classic trap works by sticking to the flies and preventing them from flying away. You can purchase pre-made flypaper or make your own by coating strips of paper in a sticky mixture of sugar, corn syrup, and water.
7. Tape trap
For a quick and easy trap, use double-sided tape to stick flies to a piece of cardboard. This trap works best in areas with a high concentration of flies, like near garbage cans.
8. Sugar and yeast trap
Mix some sugar water and yeast in a jar, then cover the top with plastic wrap. Poke a few holes in the plastic wrap and place the jar near where the flies are hovering. As the yeast ferments, it releases CO2, which will attract the flies.
9. Sticky ribbon trap
Hang a sticky ribbon from the ceiling near a light source. The flies will be attracted to the light and get stuck to the ribbon.
10. Red wine and dish soap trap
Like the wine trap, this trap uses wine to attract the flies. Simply mix some dish soap with red wine in a shallow dish and place it near where the flies are congregating. The soap will break the surface tension of the wine, causing the flies to sink and drown.
The Best Commercial Fly Traps on the Market
If you’re not interested in making your own fly traps, there are plenty of commercial options available. Here are five popular types:
1. Ultraviolet light traps
These traps use UV light to attract the flies, then trap them on a sticky surface. They are generally used indoors and work best in areas with few competing sources of light.
2. Glueboard traps
Similar to the glue-based DIY traps, these commercial traps use a sticky surface to trap the flies. They are commonly used in food processing facilities.
3. Electric grid traps
These traps use an electric grid to zap flies when they come into contact with it. They are usually used outdoors and can be effective for covering a large area.
4. Baited traps
These traps use a liquid or solid bait to lure the flies into the trap, where they are then trapped inside. They are commonly used indoors and are effective for reducing the overall population of flies.
5. Disposable bag traps
These traps use a bait and a disposable bag to trap the flies. They are often hung outdoors and can be effective for covering a large area.
How to Use Essential Oils to Repel Flies
In addition to traps, essential oils can be used to repel flies. Here are four effective options:
1. Peppermint oil
Peppermint oil is known to repel flies and other pests. Simply dilute the oil in water and spray it around your home or garden.
2. Eucalyptus oil
Like peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil can be used to repel flies. Mix it with water and spray it in areas where flies are present.
3. Lavender oil
Not only does lavender oil repel flies, but it also has a pleasant scent. Mix it with water and spray it around your home or garden.
4. Lemongrass oil
Lemongrass oil has a strong scent that repels flies. Mix it with water and spray it in areas where flies are present.
The Science of Fly Behavior: How to Effectively Trap Them
Understanding the biology of houseflies can help you effectively trap them. Flies are attracted to rotting food, feces, and other organic matter. To trap them, you need to target their sense of smell. Scented baits like those used in DIY and commercial traps are effective because they mimic the scents that flies are naturally attracted to.
In addition to targeting flies directly, you can also reduce their attraction to your home or garden by keeping food and garbage out of sight, cleaning up pet waste, and reducing sources of standing water.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Own Fly Zapper
If you’re feeling ambitious, you can even build your own fly zapper. Here’s how:
A. Explanation of the basic components of a fly zapper
A fly zapper typically consists of a metal grid, a transformer to convert electricity to high voltage, and a housing to protect the user from accidental contact with the grid.
B. List of tools and materials needed
To build a fly zapper, you’ll need:
– A metal grid
– A transformer
– A housing
– Wire
– Electrical tape
– Screwdriver
C. Instructions on how to build a simple fly zapper
To build a fly zapper:
1. Connect the transformer to the electrical source.
2. Test the voltage using a voltmeter.
3. Attach the metal grid to the transformer.
4. Connect wires between the transformer and grid.
5. Secure the grid and transformer in the housing.
D. Precautions to take when using electrical components
Building a fly zapper requires knowledge of electrical components and can be dangerous. Be sure to follow all safety precautions, including wearing gloves and avoiding any contact with live electricity.
Conclusion
Whether you choose to make your own DIY traps, purchase commercial traps, or use essential oils to repel flies, there are plenty of effective solutions for trapping these pesky insects. By understanding the biology of houseflies and taking steps to reduce their attraction to your home or garden, you can successfully alleviate the problem of fly infestation.
