Springtime always brings the annoying onset of houseflies proceeded by the often frustrating efforts to rid our homes of them. No matter what we do, they always seem to sneak through momentarily opened doors or briefly cracked windows. Here are a few ways to get rid of flies, some more widely known methods and others a little less common.
-Basil and mint plants are said to be deterrents for flies. Many people place the plants right outside doors and even in kitchens for this reason. One restaurant tried this with several basil plants in the kitchen, noticeably decreasing the number of flies.
-Oils such as orange, lemon, clove and basil are also fly deterrents and often used in the cleaning process to repel flies.
-A tried and true (and inexpensive) method for killing fruit flies involves a disposable cup or bowl, or even just an old jar or container of some sort. Place a juicy piece of fruit inside to attract the flies such as oranges, peaches, etc. Cover it with plastic wrap and poke just a few very small holes in the plastic with a fork. This allows fruit flies to get in but usually keeps them from getting out, therefore breaking their breeding cycle and substantially reducing their number. Then whenever needed just thrown it out and start again.
-Another simple and frequently successful method in dealing with flies just takes a bowl filled about half way with vinegar, beer or any inexpensive wine. Flies are attracted to the liquid but are usually unable to get back out of the bowl. To kill the flies faster or ensure that larger flies stick better try adding a little dish soap to the mixture.
-Lavender in almost any form is also used in deterring flies. Bunches of fresh lavender, lavender plants and especially lavender oils in a burner can be placed throughout the house or porch area to help keep flies away.
-Cloves are a great deterrent to flies as well. Cloves inside sachets can be hung around the house. They’re fragrant and decorative and flies hate the smell.
-Flies of any kind can be caught by filling a jar or other container with an inch or two of water and a handful of sugar. Place a funnel on the top and flies should go in but be unable to get out. Dispose of the container and start a new one when needed.
-A widely known but far less commonly used method in the battle against house flies is the good old Venus Fly Trap plant. They are actually easier to come by than you might first think and with a little information can be well taken care of in your home. According to flytrapcare.com, a basic Venus Fly Trap usually costs $4 – $7 at any carnivorous plant nursery. Or if you prefer, you can also order one on the web. Prices online vary more because more options are available. For a list of reputable sites known for shipping these plants in good condition visit flytrapcare.com.
-Bubble Wrap or Plastic Bags. This may sound crazy, and maybe it is…but some people swear by it. A long, rolled up piece of large cell bubble wrap placed above or next to a doorway where flies normally enter is said to discourage flies. The bubble wrap concept actually started as an easier, similar method to plastic bags with water. To try the plastic bags, fill the bag with a little bit of water and add a piece of aluminum foil to the inside and place near doors or any other area of the home where flies congregate. The theory behind both ideas is that, when it works, the fly is deterred when light reflects off the bag or the bubble wrap because of flies’ compound vision.
-Create your own fly paper with the fast and easy instructions at this site. The simple mix only takes corn syrup, sugar, paper and a bowl or tray.
-Sticky Fly Strips are a more common way to fight house flies, and though they definitely have a “gross factor” they are often effective. To make best use of a fly strips hang them in areas where you normally see the flies. Besides when looking for food, they usually hang out in areas with less foot traffic or places high enough to remain unharmed.
Feel free to comment if you try any of these methods or have used them in the past and let me know if they worked or not!
Sources:
Personal Experience
How To Get Rid of Stuff
Thrifty Fun
Repel Flies Naturally
Keep House Flies Out With Bubble Wrap
Fly Trap Care
