Clever and cheap tricks to banish flies from your home this summer

On a balmy summer's day, leaving doors or windows ajar can seem like an open invitation to a horde of bluebottle flies. While your average fly is lured by rotting meat, fruit flies have a sweet tooth, drawn to overripe fruit, spilt fizzy pop, and even booze. This doesn't deter the pesky critters from buzzing in and aimlessly trying to find their way back out.

In the heat, this can turn our kitchens into a veritable fly fiesta. Luckily, there are ways to tackle this issue. In fact, there are several, many of which utilise items you likely already have in your kitchen.

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If flies are driving you round the bend and you're keen to banish them naturally and without breaking the bank, Chronicle Live has revealed a few tricks that will help keep flies away from your home this summer - and every summer.

Apple cider vinegar and washing-up liquid

To whip up an effective fly trap, mix equal parts washing-up liquid and apple cider vinegar in a bowl or jar. Sprinkle a bit of sugar on top to make it even more irresistible to the flies.

The washing-up liquid will dissolve the flies and kill them, while the vinegar serves as bait. If you don't have any apple cider vinegar to hand, stale wine or beer will do the trick too, as their mature scents are a magnet for flies.

Herbal repellents

A herb box is a lovely addition to any kitchen, but having the right plants can also help keep pests at bay. The trick is to position herbs near doorways and windows where flies tend to congregate.

Herbs such as Basil, Lavender, Bay Leaf, Mint, Marigolds, and Nasturtiums are known to repel house flies, providing a natural means of making your home less appealing to these pests and reducing infestation. Historically, Marigold has been used in greenhouses to ward off aphids, while Onions have been grown to mask the scent and deter carrot fly.

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Essential oils

If you're short on space for herb boxes, essential oils derived from plants like lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, and lemongrass can serve as effective fly repellents. Simply place the essential oils in diffusers or mix with water and spray in areas of your home where flies tend to gather.

Bottle traps

An old plastic bottle can be transformed into a trap by cutting off the top third and filling it with a sweet liquid, such as sugar water. Invert the top section of the bottle and secure it inside the larger portion, taping the two sections together.

This design allows flies or wasps to enter the bottle but prevents them from escaping. The effectiveness of the trap can be enhanced by adding a paper funnel at the top to further entice flies to remain inside the bottle. The only downside is the unpleasant task of disposing of it afterwards.

The jar with holes in the lid

This method is particularly useful as it utilises old jars, helping to reduce household waste. It's as straightforward as it is environmentally friendly.

Grab an old jar and make a few small holes in the lid using a hammer and nail. These tiny openings might seem insignificant, but they're just the right size for any pesky fruit flies buzzing around your kitchen. This trick utilises the same ingredients as the first hack: apple cider vinegar and liquid dish soap.