Residents in South Africa are facing a frustrating fly infestation due to the hot and humid weather. Flies are not just annoying; they also carry germs and bacteria that can be harmful to your health. The best way to control them is by keeping your home clean and preventing them from entering in the first place.
If you’re tired of dealing with flies, don’t worry! In this article, we will share hacks to get rid of flies using simple and effective cleaning methods.
1. Keep Surfaces Clean and Dry
One of the best hacks to get rid of flies is keeping your home spotless. Flies are attracted to leftover food, sticky surfaces, and spills. To prevent them:
- Wipe down kitchen counters and tables after every meal.
- Clean up food crumbs and spills immediately.
- Use a natural disinfectant like vinegar and water (mix equal parts in a spray bottle).
- Keep dishcloths and sponges clean, as they can attract flies.
Pro Tip: Add a few drops of lemon or peppermint essential oil to your cleaning solution. Flies hate these smells!
2. Cover and Store Food Properly
Flies are drawn to food, so storing everything properly is an important hack to get rid of flies:
- Store fruits and vegetables in the fridge instead of leaving them on the counter.
- Use airtight containers to store dry goods and leftovers.
- Cover food with mesh food covers or plastic wrap.
Pro Tip: Place cloves or bay leaves in fruit bowls to keep flies away naturally.
3. Take Out the Trash Regularly
Your garbage bin is one of the biggest attractions for flies. To keep them from breeding:
- Use a trash bin with a lid to prevent flies from entering.
- Take out the garbage daily, especially if it contains food waste.
- Wash and disinfect your trash bin weekly.
- Sprinkle baking soda at the bottom of the bin to absorb odors and moisture.
Pro Tip: If possible, keep your trash bin outside to minimize fly activity indoors.
4. Keep Drains Clean and Clear
Flies often lay eggs in dirty drains, so another hack to get rid of flies is maintaining clean pipes:
- Pour boiling water down the drain once a week to kill any fly larvae.
- Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, let it sit for 10 minutes, then rinse with hot water.
- Install drain covers to prevent food particles from getting stuck.
Pro Tip: Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to the drain to deter flies.
5. Use Natural Fly Repellents
Instead of using harsh chemicals, try these natural hacks to get rid of flies:
- Lemon and cloves: Cut a lemon in half and stick whole cloves into it. Place it near windows and doors.
- Cucumber slices: Flies dislike the smell of cucumbers. Place slices near entry points.
- Basil and mint plants: Keep fresh basil or mint plants in the kitchen or near entrances to repel flies.
Pro Tip: You can also use essential oils like lavender, citronella, and tea tree oil to keep flies at bay.
6. Make a DIY Fly Trap
A homemade fly trap is one of the most effective hacks to get rid of flies. Here’s how to make one:
What You Need:
- A plastic bottle or jar
- Apple cider vinegar
- Dish soap
- Plastic wrap (if using a jar)
- Rubber band (if using a jar)
Steps:
- Cut the top off a plastic bottle and invert it into the base (like a funnel).
- Pour apple cider vinegar inside and add a few drops of dish soap.
- If using a jar, cover it with plastic wrap and secure it with a rubber band. Poke small holes in the wrap.
- Place the trap in areas where flies are common.
Flies will be attracted to the vinegar but won’t be able to escape due to the dish soap and trap design.
Pro Tip: Replace the solution every few days for the best results.
7. Keep Windows and Doors Closed
Flies easily enter through open doors and windows. Another simple hack to get rid of flies is preventing their entry:
- Install mesh screens on windows and doors.
- Use door sweeps to block small openings.
- Keep windows and doors closed, especially during the day when flies are most active.
Pro Tip: If you need ventilation, use a fan near windows or doors. The strong airflow will make it difficult for flies to enter.
Related: Household Cleaning Hacks on a Budget Under R150
8. Clean Pet Areas Regularly
If you have pets, their food and waste can attract flies. Some essential hacks to get rid of flies in pet areas include:
- Washing food and water bowls daily.
- Keeping pet food in sealed containers.
- Cleaning up pet waste in the yard regularly.
Pro Tip: Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around pet areas to keep flies away naturally.
9. Avoid Damp and Moist Areas
Flies thrive in damp environments. A useful hack to get rid of flies is keeping your home dry:
- Fix leaking pipes and faucets.
- Wipe up water spills immediately.
- Keep mop heads and rags dry after use.
Pro Tip: Use a dehumidifier to keep moisture levels low if you live in a humid area.
10. Maintain Your Garden and Outdoor Spaces
Flies often breed in overgrown gardens and compost piles. Some hacks to get rid of flies outdoors include:
- Trimming bushes and cutting grass regularly.
- Covering compost piles with a lid or tarp.
- Avoiding leaving rotting fruit or vegetables in the garden.
Pro Tip: Plant fly-repelling herbs like basil, rosemary, and lavender around your home for a natural barrier.
Final Thoughts
Flies can be a nuisance, but with the right cleaning habits and prevention strategies, you can eliminate them from your home. These hacks to get rid of flies will help you maintain a clean, fresh, and fly-free environment.
Try these simple solutions today, and say goodbye to flies for good!