Even though summer is coming to an end, the weather is still warm enough for flies and wasps to make a nuisance of themselves. If you want to enjoy the last of the sunshine outside without being bothered by bugs, there are a couple of things you can do.
The best part is these tips are cheap and most involve just a simple switch of routine. The first tip is to use a natural deterrent that wasps find overwhelming. Sliced lemon or vinegar works well.
Either slice a lemon or place a bowl of vinegar near the entry points to your home. Their strong aroma disorientates the wasps and will send them away.
A second tip is to limit access to water. In hot weather wasps are dehydrated and will seek out shade and water, so it’s important to wipe all spills.
As well as this, it’s best not to leave pet water bowls or damp clothes near open windows, and these will draw insects inside. As well as water, flies and wasps are drawn to sugar.
To deter them from exploring your home, you should cover fruit bowls, store cakes and pastries in airtight containers, and keep bins sealed. It’s also advised to rinse sticky jars and bottles before recycling.
Nancy Emery, cleaning expert at Tap Warehouse, said: “A messy kitchen in summer is unfortunately going to be a magnet for pesky bugs like wasps and flies.
“Wasps in particular can carry bacteria and other pathogens from various sources, like garbage, animal waste, and carcasses, which they can then transfer to your food.”
Nancy added: “Cleaning regularly is the best way to keep on top of your kitchen hygiene and limit the spread of bacteria and bad smells – and ward off any bugs.
Try to ensure that every spill or splatter is cleaned straight away, and regularly clean the lid of your bins to ensure no unseen bacteria is left behind.”
