I’m a pest control expert – it’s fruit fly season but my DIY traps and repellents keep them away for pennies
FRUIT flies are known to invade homes over the warmer summer months, but keeping your home fly-free doesn't need to be such a hassle.
Although there are loads of tips and tricks out there you can try out, some of them are pretty pricey - so, here are five you can use that won't break the bank.
Keep surfaces clean
Fruit flies can be attracted to the scent of food being prepared, especially when windows are left open during the summer.
So make sure you don't leave any grub laying about on your kitchen counter, the pro recommended.
“Take out the rubbish bin more often than usual ahead of fruit fly season, so food waste doesn’t end up rotting - the perfect attraction and breeding ground for fruit flies," John said.
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Store food properly
The strong scent of fruit, even if it's not cut open, can attract fruit flies.
Make sure all fruit is kept in an airtight container and not left out in fruit bowls.
You can also store fruit in the fridge to help keep flies and other pests away, John advised.
Keep drains clear
Fruit flies often lay eggs in damp drains, so keeping them clear is a must.
You can use a mixture of white vinegar and baking soda to clean your drains and stop any pests from potentially breeding there, John said.
Alternatively, you can try simply pouring boiling water down your drains to clear them.
But there are other natural repellents you can try too,
The pro said: "The strong scent of dried basil, mint and bay leaves can be simply left where you tend to find fruit flies which should repel them from the area.
"Alternatively, mix water with essential oils like lemongrass, lavender, or eucalyptus which can be sprayed as a natural repellent.”
Use an electric fan
Most homes already have an electric fan ready for any especially hot days, but did you know you can also use a fan to keep flies away?
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Since they're pretty weak a strong current can make it tricky for flies to land on any surfaces, keeping them away from your home.
You could also try to angle an electric fan out of your window to stop them entering your home.
Pest control tips and tricks
There are loads of different pests that can find their way into your home.
The first step of dealing with the problem is identifying the type of pests you're dealing with.
Here are some of the more common ones and the tricks to banish them for good:
- Store all food away, ideally in airtight containers, in cupboards or in the fridge.
- Don't leave food out in the open air, always cover and store away if possible.
- Clean up any food and drink spills as soon as they occur.
- Keep the house clean, remember to keep cupboards clean too.
- Wash pet bowls regularly, remember ants are partial to cat and dog food too!
- Take out your rubbish regularly.
- Clean your entire kitchen with a natural, homemade anti-ant spray, made with one part water and one part vinegar to destroy their pheromones and present infestations.