As spring arrives and temperatures rise, flies become a common nuisance in UK homes, especially near open windows. With the mercury hitting 15°C, these pests grow active, prompting many to reach for chemical sprays. However, experts at cleaning company Time For You suggest a natural alternative: scattering citrus peels on windowsills.
According to the experts, flies rely heavily on their sense of smell to locate food and breeding sites. Citrus fruits contain limonene, an oil that disrupts flies' navigation by masking attractive scents. The peels also irritate flies, signalling danger and prompting them to seek safer areas.
To use this method, simply bend orange or lemon peels to release the oils and place them near windows, bins, or fruit bowls. Replace the peels every few days once they dry out. For a stronger effect, cut a lemon or orange in half, push cloves into it, and place it near a window.
Alternatively, boil the peels in water and use the solution as a homemade air freshener that repels flies. Other plants like basil, mint, lavender, or rosemary can also be placed on windowsills to deter flies naturally.
