Practical Tips for Eliminating Flies from Your Home and Yard

Flies are more than just a nuisance — they can be a health risk as well. Whether it’s houseflies, fruit flies, or gnats, these pests can invade your home and spread germs, making it important to address the issue quickly. Here are effective and practical methods to get rid of flies in both your home and yard.

How to Get Rid of House Flies: Create DIY Fly Traps

For flies inside your home, the best method is to trap them using homemade fly traps. Creating a simple fly trap can be done with an empty two-liter soda bottle. Follow these steps:

1. Cut off the top third of the bottle.
2. Invert the top part and place it over the bottom part, forming a funnel.
3. Secure the funnel with tape or staples.
4. Fill the bottom with a sticky liquid like sugar water, and add white vinegar to deter bees and other insects.
5. Drip the sticky mixture along the funnel edges, making it easier for flies to get in but difficult for them to escape.

For fruit flies in the kitchen, place a bowl with apple cider vinegar and cover it with plastic wrap. Poke small holes in the wrap, allowing fruit flies to enter but not exit.

Eco-Friendly Fly Spray and Ward Off Flies Naturally

Certain herbs can help deter flies, particularly when placed around your home. Basil, bay leaves, and mint are excellent choices to plant in sunny spots to naturally ward off flies.

To make your own fly repellent spray, combine lavender, peppermint, and witch hazel with water in a spray bottle. Mist it around furniture, plants, and doorways where flies tend to gather.

Seal Gaps and Prevent Fly Entry

Flies often gain access to your home through small cracks and gaps. Replace worn weather stripping around doors and windows to keep them sealed. Insulate any other gaps in your house, such as holes in insulation, using spray foam.

Since flies like warmth and sunlight, they may buzz against windows. Ensure your windows are fitted with screens to prevent flies from getting in. Additionally, avoid leaving doors open for extended periods.

Keeping Flies Out of Your Yard

Courtesy of Envato

Flies aren’t just confined to your home; they also invade your yard, especially around trash bins, compost piles, and standing water. Keep your yard clean and remove any food scraps or trash. Use outdoor fly traps, or place basil and mint plants around your outdoor areas to keep flies at bay.

By using these practical fly control methods, you can significantly reduce the fly population in and around your home, ensuring a cleaner and healthier environment.