Houseflies are a common problem in summer, but there is a simple home remedy that could help keep them out of your kitchen. Last year, our Lifestyle reporter Katherine McPhillips uncovered a straightforward trick to banish them from your home for good.
The Problem with Houseflies
In July 2025, Katherine started to have a really bad fly problem in her kitchen. Nothing she did seemed to get rid of the annoying pests. She thoroughly cleaned her bin, removed fruit from the countertop, and set out vinegar fly traps, which helped a little, but the pesky insects kept appearing. She was getting frustrated as she had to keep her windows shut despite the heat, not realizing that her sink drain was encouraging them to come into her home.
Why Check Your Sink Drain in Summer?
Flies are drawn to food waste, which is why cleaning your bin is usually the first piece of advice given when they become a nuisance. However, sink drains are equally prone to food debris on a daily basis. Many households do not realize how much food residue goes down the drain during washing up. Flies have incredibly sharp senses, enabling them to detect decomposing matter even from outside your home. If your sink drain has not been properly cleaned recently, flies might be particularly attracted to it during warmer weather. The warm, damp environment offers an abundant food source for them to thrive. Addressing a fly issue promptly is vital, as neglecting it can lead to eggs being laid and a full infestation continuing throughout the summer.
The Simple 30-Second Solution
Fortunately, there is no need to dedicate substantial time to clearing drains or spending money on specialist products. Simply tipping boiling water down the drain has shown itself to be a remarkably effective solution. The technique is incredibly simple: boil a full kettle and cautiously pour the hot water down the drain each night before going to bed. Carried out daily throughout July and August, this 30-second habit proved exceptionally effective, removing fly issues completely and enabling windows to remain open during the day. The boiling water eliminates any food debris hiding in the drain, removing the smells that draw flies, while also destroying any insects already lurking in the kitchen.
Additional Tips to Keep Flies Away
- Set up apple cider vinegar traps around the property.
- Replace bin bags daily.
- Place herb plants near windows, as flies detest their fragrance.
Having a dog at home meant Katherine was wary of using chemical insect repellent sprays, making this straightforward, natural remedy all the more attractive as a reliable method to keep flies away throughout the summer months.
