How To Keep Flies Out of Your Kansas City Home This Summer
Summertime in Kansas City brings sunshine, BBQs, and backyard fun. But it may also bring flies. These pesky insects seem to show up everywhere as the weather heats up. They may annoy you in your kitchen or around your trash. In fact, they can be buzzing in your ear while you are trying to relax. Thankfully, there are some easy and effective ways to keep flies out of your home this summer. Also, you can always count on pest control experts at saelapest.com for help with elimination. Here’s what you can do to enjoy a fly-free summer in Kansas City:
Keep Doors and Windows Sealed
Make sure your screens do not have any holes or tears. Even the tiniest rip can invite flies inside. Install window screens if your windows still do not have them, especially on windows you like to keep open for fresh air. Also, never leave doors open for long periods. Consider installing a screen door that closes automatically if your kids tend to run in and out of the house.
Take Out the Trash Often
Flies love garbage. You are throwing a party for flies if you leave a bag of trash sitting around, especially one with food scraps. Try to take your trash out regularly during the summer. Also, make sure your indoor trash cans have tight-fitting lids. Keep your garbage bins closed at all times. Rinse them out every now and then to keep them from smelling.
Keep Your Kitchen Clean
Flies are attracted to food and moisture. This makes your kitchen their favorite spot to hang out. You can make this space less appealing to files by wiping down counters, cleaning up spills right away, and cleaning dishes in the sink immediately. Also, try not to leave fruits out on the counter. Fruits give off a sweet smell that flies cannot resist as they ripen. Store fruits in the fridge if you can or use a fruit cover to keep them protected.
Fix Leaks and Moisture Problems
Leaky pipes, damp sponges, or overwatered houseplants can give flies what they need to hang around. Check under your sinks and around your appliances for leaks. Fixing them quickly helps cut down on those little moisture-loving pests. Make sure to wring sponges out and let them dry after each use after using them for cleaning.
Try Natural Fly Repellents
You don’t always have to reach for the chemical sprays to keep flies at bay. You can try natural remedies that can help keep flies away.
Flies do not like the smell of certain herbs and essential oils. Try placing small pots of basil, mint, or lavender around your windowsills. You can also make a DIY fly spray using water and vinegar. Also, you can try a few drops of essential oils such as eucalyptus, peppermint, or lemongrass.
In addition, consider filling a clear plastic bag with water and dropping a few pennies in it. Hang it near your doors. The light reflecting off the water and pennies can confuse flies and keep them away.
Clean Up After Pets
Be sure to clean up after your dogs or cats quickly. Pet waste is an attraction for flies. Make it part of your daily routine to check the yard and scoop it up. Also, wash pet food bowls regularly and never leave uneaten food sitting out too long.
Keep Outdoor Areas Tidy
Flies often gather where there is food, water, and waste. This includes your yard. Keep the grass trimmed and clean up any fallen fruit, compost, or food scraps left over from grilling. Make sure you are doing composts properly, which means covering food scraps with yard waste such as leaves or grass clippings to reduce odors and keep flies away.
