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Summer is associated with warm evenings we like to spend outdoors. However, good weather increases insect activity. Annoying flies and mosquitoes can spoil our mood and make relaxation unpleasant. We often try to keep them away not only from ourselves but also from children and food. We have prepared a few effective ways for you to get rid of these uninvited guests, which you can use during the summer months.
1. Problem with nuisance flies
Flies are not only annoying but also dangerous. They carry bacteria and can leave traces from their bites. They can contaminate food and transmit various diseases such as cholera, dysentery or typhoid. According to entomologist Ron Harrison, „all it takes is for a fly to touch your food for a moment and transfer the bacteria it carries on its body to it.”
Flies are dirty insects that can carry up to 200 different bacteria on their bodies, transmitted from rotting food or feces. Therefore it is important to get rid of them in time and protect your food and home.
2. Effective homemade fly traps
There are many proven home tricks to get rid of flies in the house. They are cheap, easily available and effective. Here are some methods you can try:
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Miracle spice mix – Every household has a supply of spices that can help in the fight against flies. Flies dislike strong scents, so a mix of spices, cinnamon and fresh garlic placed where flies often appear is a great solution.
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Homemade fly trap – You can easily make sticky strips by cutting adhesive tape into long strips or use brown paper covered with honey. Its scent attracts flies, which stick to the paper and cannot get out.
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Vinegar and dish soap – Create a mixture of vinegar and dish soap and add a little sugar, which attracts flies just like honey. The dish soap acts like a poison that drowns the flies.
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Water in a bag – Fill a medium-sized bag or pouch with water, tie it closed and hang it by a window. Light reflections repel insects.
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Cloves – Brew a clove infusion or stick them into fruit. You can also scatter them around the kitchen.
3. Plants that repel flies
Plants can also be useful in getting rid of flies. Some of them emit intense scents that flies dislike. In addition, they will decorate and beautify your balcony or terrace.
The best plants for repelling flies:
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Mint – Fresh mint has a strong scent that repels insects. You can plant it in a pot or on a windowsill.
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Lavender – Lavender has a distinctive scent that works against insects. It can be grown in a pot or in the garden. A lavender spray made with alcohol also helps against flies.
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Bay laurel – Bay laurel is a beautiful plant that not only looks great but its scent also repels flies.
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Geraniums (pelargoniums) – Their strong scent is very unpleasant for flies.
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Lemongrass – Insects dislike the smell of lemon. You can plant lemongrass or use lemongrass essential oil to repel insects.
If you can’t manage to deal with the flies, you can look for insecticides in stores or use mosquito nets. It is also important to regularly remove food scraps that flies often cling to.
4. More tips to keep flies away
To get rid of flies and mosquitoes effectively, it’s good to take some preventive steps:
- Keep the house clean and tidy regularly, especially the kitchen.
- Store food in airtight containers.
- Fit windows and doors with insect screens.
- Use natural insect repellents that are safe for the household.
Conclusion
Getting rid of flies and mosquitoes in the home doesn’t have to be difficult. With home remedies, natural plants and simple tricks you can protect your family and enjoy summer evenings without disturbance. Remember that cleanliness and prevention are key to preventing insects from settling in your home.
