Glorious sunshine, fresh air and a soothing light-heartedness … if only the intrusive, caustic flies weren’t there! They come from everywhere and disturb us when we eat, when we lie down, when we talk. And although luckily there are no dangerous species of flies in this country, we want to get rid of them as quickly as possible, not only in our rooms, but also on the balcony or terrace. Because regardless of the fact that these insects also have their specific role in the food chain and contribute to the fertility of the soil, they are also considered disease carriers and are therefore not welcome on the table. However, you don’t have to use chemicals straight away, because you unnecessarily pollute the environment and can also harm your own health. Today we will share with you some effective, natural methods you can use to successfully get rid of flies. Declare war on the cheeky troublemakers now and enjoy your summer time in the open air.
You can drive away the flies with natural home remedies and clever tips
Drive away flies with plants and spices
Interestingly, flies and most insects in general dislike the smell of some of our favorite plants. And of course that suits us very well. Because these can either be placed as fresh plants on the balcony, on the table or on the windowsill and form a scent barrier for the flying nuisances. Or you can use them in the form of essential oils. This usually involves taking an empty spray bottle and diluting the oils with water. The outdoor furniture and textiles as well as the table or the patio railing are then sprayed with it. You can also add a few drops of an essential oil to 100ml of base oil and apply this mixture to your own skin. Always carry out the allergy test on a small area of skin beforehand and leave out the eye, mouth and nose areas.
They not only smell heavenly, but are also a beautiful summer decoration for the table
Some of the most effective plants and spices against flies and mosquitoes are:
- basil
- lavender
- rosemary
- lemon geranium
- lemongrass
- mint
- eucalyptus
- tomato plants
- Chili or cayenne pepper
- cloves
Aroma lamps with essential oils from these plants or incense sticks with such scents are also very practical. Placed on the dining table or somewhere else nearby, they then exude their beguiling smell. The flies notice this immediately and flee in no time.
Lemon and vinegar do not like houseflies at all!
Flies are also deterred by sour smells. You can already feel the unpleasant scent wave from afar and simply avoid the place where it comes from. Vinegar and lemon as well as lime are at the top of the list here. You can either place a small bowl full of vinegar on the table or windowsill, or alternatively spray it regularly with vinegar water. The lemons and limes even offer a much nicer variant, with which you not only drive away the flies, but also create a beautiful decoration. Simply cut the lemons in half and sprinkle the cut side with cloves. Complete!
You can also set up a small pot with basil or lavender
Water bags are supposed to drive away the annoying pests
Superstition or not… You can simply try it yourself. Because the effect of a water bag on the flies has not been scientifically proven and that can very well be argued. Nevertheless, many people hang bags filled with water on the window, on the balcony or on a tree in the garden to repel flies. Some even add a few copper coins to enhance the reflective effect. Because it is believed that the insects are deterred by the reflected light and run away. Sounds funny, admittedly. But who knows, it’s definitely worth a try, right?
Make a simple fly scare from a bag yourself
Set up a flytrap
If all these resources are not enough, you can get rid of the flies by getting sticky tape and fly traps from specialist shops, or you can easily make them yourself. Here’s exactly how to make a fruit fly trap. A completely different type of trap are the so-called carnivorous plants, such as the Venus flytrap, for example. You can already buy these in many garden centers and set them up in your home.
Smaller copies are even available from 10 euros
Extra tip: You can even use natural remedies against aggressive horseflies and use them to prepare a DIY fly spray. Simply mix 500 ml organic apple cider vinegar and 500 ml water together and add 300 ml of another essential oil, such as rosemary oil, lavender oil or neem oil. Spray your horse with it, avoiding soft parts, mouth and eyes. Don’t forget to do the allergy test first!
How to get rid of flies with incense sticks
Discover the fragrant power of Palo Santo
A smart and charming idea against flies and mosquitoes – lanterns!
What you need for this:
And then it’s quick and easy!
Use the power of nature against itself!
