As the UK bakes in a blistering heatwave that could push temperatures beyond 40C, increasing numbers of people are eager to dine outdoors. However, alfresco dining brings one significant downside: swarms of flies and other insects frequently interrupt meals.
Fortunately, there is a straightforward trick that can help repel these pests using two common kitchen ingredients: lemons and cloves. According to Keely Smith, interior designer at JD Elite Interiors, flies are "incredibly sensitive to scent." She suggests pushing cloves into lemons, as the pairing produces an aroma that flies genuinely dislike.
How the Lemon and Clove Repellent Works
Keely told Ideal Home: "The combination of lemon and cloves throws off their senses and makes the area smell too intense and confusing for them to stick around." While this pairing can prove effective indoors, it can equally help ward off flies when entertaining in the garden. You could position the clove-studded lemons on your table to prevent flies circling the food.
However, you will likely need to increase the number of lemons deployed to counter the conditions and position them immediately beside the principal serving platters where flies are attempting to settle. Keely offered a cautionary note: "You'll need to refresh the lemon often, once every few days, to keep the scent working. Once it dries out or starts to rot, you're not repelling flies anymore - you're actually inviting them in."
Expert Advice on Keeping Windows Open or Closed
This comes as experts attempted to settle the age-old heatwave question: whether people ought to keep their windows open or closed. According to specialists, that very much depends on how the outside temperature compares to conditions inside your home.
The experts at SCI Windows say: "There is lots of advice available on the internet, but the general rule is: open the windows if house temperature is greater than outside temperature. Otherwise keep them closed to keep the cool air inside, as long as possible." They suggest keeping windows open at night when possible, and also first thing in the morning, before temperatures begin climbing once more.
They added: "Letting air circulate around the house is easily the best method of keeping inside temperatures down. By doing this, you should be able to create a flow of air, then cold air can be pushed through each room."
Timing for Opening and Closing Windows
Alan Reid, windows specialist at Art Windows and Doors, informed the Manchester Evening News that residents should begin opening their windows at 8pm when outdoor temperatures begin falling. UK housebuilder and Ty Eco proprietor John Small believes windows ought to be closed around 9am in the morning when temperatures start rising again, according to Border Counties Advertiser.
Britain is bracing itself for the hottest June day ever with hundreds of schools closing. Forecasters predict temperatures will rise above 35C today, with tomorrow (Wednesday, June 24) and Thursday expected to be the hottest days this week. The Met Office issued a rare red weather warning for those days.
