Summer is a time for sunshine, outdoor adventures, and garden gatherings. However, it also marks the return of unwelcome winged intruders: flies! These buzzing pests can quickly turn a pleasant summers day into an irritating affair. While commercial fly repellents may be effective, they often contain harsh chemicals that we'd rather avoid. Fortunately, there are plenty of natural and eco-friendly alternatives to keep those flies at bay. In this post, we'll explore some tried-and-tested methods for repelling flies during the summer months.
1. Lemon and Cloves: A Classic Combo
One of the simplest and most effective natural fly repellents is the lemon and cloves combo. Cut a lemon in half and insert cloves into the flesh. Place these lemon halves on a plate or in a bowl and strategically position them around your outdoor seating area (or place on windowsills). Flies are repelled by the scent of cloves, and the citrusy aroma of the lemon only enhances its effectiveness. Not only does this method keep flies at bay, but it also adds a pleasant fragrance to your surroundings.
2. DIY Vinegar Fly Trap
A homemade vinegar fly trap is an ingenious and cost-effective solution for dealing with large numbers of flies. To create this trap, take bowl and half fill it with apple cider vinegar. Cover the bowl with cling film and secure it with a rubber band. Poke small holes in the cling film to create entry points for the flies. The scent of the vinegar will attract the flies, but once they enter the trap, they won't be able to find their way out. This is a simple and humane way to keep the fly population under control.
3. Citrus Peel Potpourri
Before you toss away those unwanted citrus peels, consider using them as a natural fly repellent. Flies dislike the smell of citrus, so drying out your orange, lemon, or grapefruit peels and placing them around your windowsills or outdoor space can act as a natural deterrent. Not only does this method repel flies, but it also adds a touch of summery fragrance to the air.
4. Fly-Repelling Plants
Introducing certain plants into your garden or outdoor space can help keep flies at bay. Herbs like basil, mint, and rosemary, as well as flowers like marigolds and lavender, are known for their ability to repel flies and other insects. Plant them in pots or directly in the ground around your sitting area to create a natural barrier against flies.
5. Keep Your Space Clean
Perhaps the simplest yet most effective way to reduce fly presence is to maintain a clean and tidy space. Flies are attracted to food scraps and sweet, sticky substances. Be sure to clean up spills promptly, cover food when dining outside, and dispose of rubbish in sealed containers. Regularly empty and clean your bins to prevent them from becoming a breeding ground for flies.
6. Try Citronella & Niaouli Counter Clean
Say goodbye to pesky flies with our revolutionary Citronella & Niaouli Counter Clean. This powerful and refreshing formula combines the finest essential oils alongside organic Neem oil to create an exceptional multi-surface cleaner and natural insect repellent.
Our unique blend features a fresh and citrusy aroma, thanks to the inclusion of Citronella Java, Eucalyptus Peppermint, Niaouli, Lavender, and Geranium essential oils. Not only do these oils provide an invigorating fragrance, but they also possess natural properties that flies find incredibly offensive. To ensure maximum effectiveness, we recommend reapplying the cleaner every few hours.
As the summer months approach, flies need not ruin your outdoor fun. By incorporating these natural fly-repelling tips into your routine, you can keep pesky insects at a distance without resorting to harmful chemicals!
