In this hot weather, everyone is wondering how to keep flies away. Nothing is more irritating than the constant buzz of a fly indoors. That is especially true considering that some flies can spread diseases like food poisoning, cholera, and dysentery. Flies are unwelcome guests in our homes.
Luckily, out of the vast number of fly species—over 110,000—only a few are common pests indoors. According to Faith M. Oi, Ph.D., an entomologist and extension professor at the University of Florida, the ones causing the most trouble are known as filth flies. Their natural role is to break down organic matter, but we can minimize our health risks by being mindful of our actions. More: How to pick a watermelon?
Prevent them from entering
When dealing with flies, your approach may vary depending on the type you’re dealing with. However, these tips will help keep them at bay overall:
- Maintain Window Screens: Ensure window screens are in good condition as they act as your first line of defense against flies.
- Manage Indoor Trash: Take out indoor trash bags at least once a week and securely tie them inside the garbage can to trap odors. Keep the can away from house entrances.
- Handle Recycling: Keep recycling bins away from the house and clean them regularly. Rinse cans and food containers before placing them in the bin to reduce attraction for flies.
- Place Compost Bins Wisely: Position compost bins far from the house to deter flies.
- Clean Up Pet Waste: Remove pet waste daily to prevent attracting flies. More: How to cook chickpeas?
- Check for Drain Flies: Use a clear container with petroleum jelly smeared inside and place it upside down over the drain overnight to catch the drain file. Clean drains thoroughly if needed.
- Use Food Covers: Cover picnic foods with fine mesh covers to prevent flies from contaminating them with pathogens.
- Dispose of Rotting Produce: Discard rotting produce promptly and avoid leaving food waste like banana peels exposed on countertops. More: Salmon and avocado recipes: Nourish your body with salad
Simple tricks for keeping flies away
There are two effective, proven, and easy tricks to keep flies away while you’re eating or relaxing outside, and both involve using pennies in water. Here’s how you can try each method:
Method 1: Pennies in a Glass of Water
This method is super easy—all you need is pennies and multiple full glasses of water.
- Fill several large, clear glasses with water.
- Drop some pennies into each glass.
- Place these glasses around your table and near the food plates.
- You’ll notice fewer of these insects buzzing around your food and your head! More: The number one red flag in a relationship
Method 2: Bag of Water Trick
Similar to the first method, but using a resealable plastic bag instead of a glass.
What You Need:
- Sandwich or quart-sized resealable plastic bag
- Water
- Pennies
- Mason jar (for easy filling)
How to Use the Bag Trick:
- Set your resealable plastic bag inside a mason jar to keep it steady.
- Fill the bag 3/4 full with water.
- Drop a few pennies into the bottom of the bag.
- Seal the bag tightly and spread the pennies around inside.
- Hang the bag where you’ll be sitting and eating.
You can hang up one or a few bags—typically, about three bags are ideal for keeping them away effectively. More: How To Master Basic Cooking Techniques for Beginners
