Having the buzz of a fly zoom passed your ear is quite annoying, to say the least, and sometimes, using a fly swatter does not do the job or spending money on bottles of insect spray does not last as long as you would like.
While many see houseflies as a nuisance, this flying irritation can carry viruses and bacteria that can spread when they bite, shares Healthline (a publication that covers all facets of physical and mental health).
To make your home a no-fly zone, consider the following natural techniques:
Vinegar and dish soap
Mix equal parts of the two liquids in a small bowl and add a pinch of sugar. Entomologist Roberto Pereira, PhD tells Prevention (a leading provider of trustworthy health information) that the fermented smell from the vinegar can attract flies and it is the soap that kills them. The detergent in soap can destroy the flies’ digestive tract and break down their cell walls.
Cayenne pepper and water
Another combination to consider is cayenne pepper and water. Healthline suggests mixing the pepper with water and spraying it around the house to deter flies from coming in.
Herbs and flowers
According to Healthline, the following herbs and flowers can assist in keeping the flies at bay:
- Basil
- Marigold
- Lavender
- Bay leaves
- Catnip
Venus flytrap
Invest in these carnivorous plants to get the flies out of your way. Healthline explains that when a fly gets in the plant’s trap, it closes around the fly and secretes digestive fluid to dissolve the soft insides of the insect. “It breaks down the insect over 5 to 12 days, then spits out the exoskeleton,” shares the information hub, adding, “If you plant them outside, they’ll naturally eat flies. Inside, you might need to feed the plant flies.”
