Houseflies are one of the most annoying parts of summer. They buzz around kitchens, land on food and somehow always find their way back no matter how many times you shoo them away. While chemical sprays and pesticides are often used to get rid of them, they often come with their own problems, especially for those who want to avoid using harsh chemicals indoors.
But one natural hack is said to have the ability to keep flies at bay while also making your home smell fresh for weeks. The trick involves some cloves, an apple or a citrus fruit and a plate. Household experts at The Maids say: “Poke about 20 whole cloves into a ripe apple or a piece of citrus fruit, place it on a plate, and watch the flies disappear. In your home, these fragrant pomanders keep the flies at bay and can create sweet aromas for weeks.”
According to the experts, this all-natural remedy works because houseflies hate the strong smell of cloves combined with citrus.
Known as a pomander, this old-fashioned method has been used for centuries to freshen up homes and repel insects without any chemicals.
Experts say houseflies can carry viruses and bacteria, lay eggs, and defecate on surfaces, posing health risks to humans.
They can spread food poisoning, E. coli, cholera and typhoid fever by contaminating food and water, making it even more important to keep them out of the home.
While identifying the type of fly is important, some may be fruit flies, gnats or drain flies, standard houseflies are usually drawn to rotting food, dirty dishes, open bins and leaks in plumbing.
Keeping your home clean and dry is important. Experts recommend sweeping floors regularly, cleaning dishes immediately after use, and taking out the bin daily.
Reducing access to food, water and shelter inside your home will make it less appealing to flies in the first place.
Other natural repellents that can help include lavender, pine oil, cayenne pepper and basil.
Some homeowners also use sticky traps, essential oil strips, or DIY vinegar and dish soap traps to lure and kill flies.
For those dealing with outdoor flies, fans, citronella candles, and even Venus flytraps can also help reduce their presence.
If the problem gets out of control, experts say it may be time to call a professional pest control company to treat both the inside and outside of your home.
But for many, the clove-and-citrus trick could be a simple solution that works all summer long.