As warm weather persists, fruit flies can become a nuisance in kitchens. A cleaning expert has shared a simple, natural solution using two common kitchen items.
Lemon and Cloves Trick
Cleaning expert Anna Louisa, known as @anna_louisa_at_home on Instagram, suggests adding cloves to half a lemon and placing it in your fruit bowl. Both lemon and cloves emit scents that flies detest, keeping them away from the fruit.
Interior expert Keely Smith explained to Ideal Home how this works: "Lemons release limonene, which is a strong citrus compound that interferes with the way flies find food. When you stick cloves into the lemon, you’re adding eugenol, which has a sharp, almost spicy scent that flies dislike even more. The combination of lemon and cloves throws off their senses and makes the area smell too intense and confusing for them to stick around."
Other Natural Deterrents
Anna also shared additional tips: placing mint near an open window to discourage flies from entering, and sprinkling cinnamon around the base and inside bin lids to deter flies from lingering near unpleasant smells.
For a stronger repellent, she recommends a simmer pot: fill a saucepan halfway with water, add one sliced lemon, one to two sprigs of rosemary, 10–20 cloves, and 10–20 drops of lemongrass essential oil. Bring to the boil, then simmer, topping up water as needed and refreshing every couple of days when the scent fades.
