As the UK basks in warmer weather, a familiar and unwelcome guest is making its return – the common housefly. But before you reach for expensive chemical sprays or futuristic gadgets, a leading pest control expert has revealed a remarkably simple and cheap solution that leverages a staple found in almost every kitchen cupboard.
Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress.co.uk, has shared his expert advice on how to create an effective fly deterrent for just pennies. The secret weapon? White vinegar.
The 9p Kitchen Staple That Flies Despise
According to Bonnett, the pungent smell of white vinegar is highly effective at repelling flies, who find the sharp aroma utterly offensive. This makes it a powerful, non-toxic barrier that won't harm your family or pets.
"Flies have an incredible sense of smell which they use to seek out food," explains Bonnett. "By using strong-smelling substances like white vinegar, we can deter them from entering our homes. It’s a case of using their greatest strength against them."
How To Create Your Own Vinegar Fly Defence
Implementing this expert advice could not be simpler. Bonnett recommends this easy two-step process:
- Soak a cloth or piece of kitchen roll in a small amount of standard white vinegar.
- Place it near potential entry points, such as open windows, doors, or even in your outdoor seating area to create a protective zone.
The beauty of this method is its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. A bottle of basic white vinegar can cost as little as 9p per 100ml, making it one of the most affordable pest control solutions available.
Why This Method Beats Chemical Sprays
Unlike many commercial fly sprays that contain harsh chemicals, this natural remedy is safe to use around food preparation areas, children, and animals. It also doesn't leave any lingering chemical residue on surfaces or in the air.
Furthermore, it acts as a preventative measure, stopping flies from entering in the first place rather than dealing with them after they've already invaded your space and potentially contaminated food.
Proactive Tips for a Fly-Free Home
Bonnett emphasises that prevention is always better than cure. He also recommends supplementing the vinegar trick with these proactive steps:
- Maintain impeccable cleanliness: Wipe down surfaces immediately after food preparation and ensure all food is stored in sealed containers.
- Manage your bins: Keep indoor bins tightly sealed and ensure outdoor bins are closed and positioned away from doors and windows.
- Seal entry points: Check for and repair any damaged window or door screens to block easy access.
For those dealing with an existing infestation, a small bowl of vinegar mixed with a few drops of washing-up liquid can act as an effective trap, attracting and drowning the pests.
This clever use of a household staple offers Britons a powerful, eco-friendly, and incredibly cheap weapon in the annual battle against summer flies, proving that sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective.
