Top 10 fly deterrents you can make at home

South Africans are battling a major fly infestation, exacerbated by warm summer temperatures and poor waste management. With over 300,000 fly species in the country, residents are searching for effective ways to combat this growing nuisance in homes and businesses.

If you’re wondering how to get rid of flies naturally, these DIY fly traps and homemade fly deterrents are effective, easy to make, and chemical-free. Learn how to keep flies out of your home with these tried-and-tested solutions.

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1. DIY essential oil spray

Essential oils are key components of many natural fly repellents, as flies are highly sensitive to their strong aromas. This spray doubles as a great cleaning solution.

How to make it:

1. Mix 10–15 drops of peppermint, citronella, or eucalyptus oil with 1 cup of water in a spray bottle.
2. Shake well and spray on surfaces near doors, windows, or trash bins.

2. Basil, mint, and lavender plants

Flies avoid the smell of these herbs, making them a long-lasting, low-maintenance solution for how to repel flies naturally.

How to use them:

1. Place pots of basil, mint, or lavender on windowsills or outdoor entryways.
2. Crush a few leaves occasionally to amplify the fragrance.

3. DIY citrus spray

The natural oils in citrus peels disrupt flies’ sensory receptors, making your home less appealing to these pests.

How to make it:

1. Boil citrus peels (lemon, orange, or grapefruit) in water for 10 minutes.
2. Strain the water into a spray bottle and use it on surfaces or around trash bins.

4. Garlic and chilli spray

The potent combination of garlic and chilli works as a natural fly deterrent, keeping flies at bay with its strong scent.

How to make it:

1. Blend a few garlic cloves and chilli peppers with water.
2. Strain the mixture and pour it into a spray bottle.
3. Apply around windows, doors, and outdoor seating areas.

5. Sticky soda trap

Flies are drawn to the sugar in the soda, but the funnel design ensures they can’t escape, making this a highly effective homemade fly trap.

How to make it:

1. Cut a plastic soda bottle in half and invert the top into the bottom section to create a funnel.
2. Add a sugary soda drink to the bottom and secure the two parts with tape.

6. DIY fly-repelling candle

The heat from the candle amplifies the scent of citronella and herbs, creating an effective DIY fly repellent for indoor or outdoor use.

How to make it:

1. Fill a mason jar with rosemary sprigs, lemon slices, and water.
2. Add a few drops of citronella oil and float a tealight candle on top.
3. Light the candle to release the fly-repelling scent.

7. Apple cider vinegar and dish soap trap

Flies are attracted to the smell of vinegar, a key ingredient in many natural fly repellents, but the dish soap traps them in the liquid. This is a must-try homemade fly trap.

How to make it:

1. Fill a jar with apple cider vinegar, leaving space at the top.
2. Add a few drops of dish soap to break the surface tension.
3. Cover the jar with plastic wrap, secure it with a rubber band, and poke holes in the top.

8. Honey fly paper

The honey baits the flies and traps them in its sticky texture. This DIY fly trap is perfect for small spaces.

How to make it:

1. Cut strips of paper or cardboard.
2. Spread a thick layer of honey on one side and hang the strips near windows or doors.

9. Vinegar and sugar water trap

The sugar and vinegar attract flies, while the dish soap ensures they can’t escape. This simple DIY fly catcher is a go-to for dealing with infestations.

How to make it:

1. Combine equal parts vinegar and sugar in a bowl.
2. Add a few drops of dish soap to enhance the mixture.
3. Leave the bowl in a fly-prone area.

10. Lemon and clove fly repellent

The citrus scent of the lemon combined with cloves is a powerful fly-repelling hack, making this one of the most effective natural fly deterrents.

How to make it:

1. Cut a lemon in half and press whole cloves into the fleshy side.
2. Place it in areas where flies are most active

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Natural fly repellents for your home

Feature Image: iStock