As the summer season brings warmer weather and open windows, it also welcomes some unwelcome guests— house flies.
These pesky insects can quickly become a nuisance, buzzing around your home and landing on your food. However, fear not! Below are some tips on how to prevent and combat flies in and around your home.
Remove Possible Food Sources for Flies
Everyone knows flies are drawn to food, so the first step in managing them is to eliminate their food sources.
Keep your home clean and ensure all food is properly covered.
Avoid leaving dirty dishes or food scraps, and take out the trash regularly to minimize fly attractants, especially if you have rotting food in there!
Pet food is also a huge food source for flies that pet owners need to consider. Want to prevent flies from getting into pet food? Make sure to seal it in an airtight container because flies can become attracted to the moisture that builds up in pet food and this can lead to buildup in bacteria.
Seal Up Cracks and Holes
Flies can sneak into your home through even the tiniest openings. Take the time to inspect your windows, doors, and other potential entry points for any cracks or holes. Seal them using caulk or weatherstripping to prevent flies from infiltrating your living spaces.
Utilize Fly Traps
Fly traps can be valuable tools in your battle against flies. There are several types available, such as sticky traps, bait traps, and electric traps. Experiment with different options to determine which works best for your situation. Place these traps strategically around your home to attract and catch flies effectively.
Eliminate Standing Water
Flies are notorious for laying their eggs in standing water. To reduce their breeding grounds, eliminate any sources of standing water in and around your property.
Regularly empty and clean birdbaths, flowerpots, and gutters to prevent the accumulation of stagnant water that may attract flies.
Harness the Power of Natural Fly Repellents
Nature offers several fly-repelling substances that are safe and pleasant to use. Citronella candles, known for their effectiveness against mosquitoes, can also help ward off flies. Additionally, scents like peppermint oil and lavender oil are known to repel flies naturally.
Use these repellents strategically around your home, especially in areas where flies tend to gather. They may not be as effective as other commercial methods, but they're a safer way to repel flies.
Seek Professional Assistance
In severe cases where flies persist despite your best efforts, it may be necessary to seek help from a professional pest control company. Experienced technicians can assess the situation, identify the root cause, and provide effective solutions tailored to your specific fly problem.