UK households are being urged to use a simple mixture of vinegar and dish soap to combat a surge in flies expected during the July heatwave, with temperatures forecast to reach 39C this week. The combination of these two household staples offers a cost-effective alternative to professional pest control services, according to pest control experts Rentokil.
Why July is peak fly season
Hot weather accelerates the breeding cycles of pests, and July marks the peak of fly activity in the UK. As temperatures rise, households may notice an increase in flies entering homes through small cracks, unsealed openings, and open doors. Instead of spending hundreds of pounds on professional treatments, Rentokil suggests a simple DIY trap using apple cider vinegar, wine, or honey mixed with dish soap.
“Fill a bowl slightly with apple cider vinegar, wine or honey with some dish soap (washing up liquid). Cover the bowl with plastic wrap with punctured holes or leave uncovered,” Rentokil advised. “Flies will be attracted to the smell and get stuck within the liquid.”
Alternative bottle trap method
Another option is to create a bottle trap using an old plastic bottle. Cut the top third off with a sharp knife, dip it into a sweet liquid such as sugar water, then turn the top section upside down and place it into the larger bottom section. Tape the two sections together so flies or wasps can enter but cannot escape.
Prevention tips to keep flies away
While home solutions are not 100% effective, they are cheap and quick alternatives. Prevention is also key: manage bins and rubbish, avoid leaving food out (especially rotting food), keep kitchen counters clean, wash dirty dishes immediately, and clean grease off oven tops. Seal cracks and crevices around doors, frames, and other openings to limit fly access.
By combining these DIY traps with good hygiene practices, households can reduce fly infestations without incurring high costs during the hot July weather.
