Flies can be a significant nuisance in the home, and getting rid of them can sometimes seem impossible. Flies enter indoors for several reasons, but most of these insects do so to feed on garbage, ripe fruits, vegetables, or moisture. The common housefly is attracted to decaying organic matter, such as rotten meat, while fruit flies seek sugary substances and more commonly feed on ripe fruit, spilled drinks, and alcohol. Drain flies require a humid environment and organic materials, being drawn to drains like kitchen sinks, where they also lay their eggs. If the fly problem is left untreated, they can spread disease-causing bacteria such as salmonella, typhoid, and E. coli. However, there are practical steps you can take to deter flies in your home, such as thorough cleaning that can eliminate breeding grounds for the pests. Removing decaying foods like meat, fruits, vegetables, and pet waste can significantly help as they are all attracting factors for flies.
How to get rid of flies from the home? There are a number of natural remedies you can try, but if your fly problem is substantial, you might need to contact professionals for help, according to the British newspaper Express.
**Apple Cider Vinegar**
Remove the cap from a bottle of apple cider vinegar and leave it in areas where flies are prevalent. The flies will be able to enter from the opening, but they cannot retreat and escape.
**Milk, Sugar, and Pepper**
Flies particularly enjoy the taste of this sweet mixture. Mix half a liter of milk, raw sugar, and a little ground pepper in a pot, and simmer for 10 minutes. Then, pour it into an open bottle and the flies will be attracted to it, where you can prevent them from escaping.
**Herbs**
Flies dislike mint, lavender, or basil. You can grow these herbs in pots, ensuring to place them near your front door and in areas where you want to spend time outdoors. You can also place herb pots inside your kitchen to keep flies away from critical areas if they enter the house.
