Effective methods to keep flies and mosquitoes away

Flies and mosquitoes can be a real nuisance, but there are several effective methods to keep them away, both indoors and outdoors. Here’s a breakdown:

Indoor Methods:

• Screens:
  • Ensure all windows and doors have well-maintained screens to prevent insects from entering.  
• Flypaper and Fly Traps:
  • Sticky flypaper or electric fly traps can effectively catch flies.  
• Mosquito Traps:
  • Indoor mosquito traps that use UV light or attractants can help reduce mosquito populations.  
• Essential Oils:
  • Certain essential oils like citronella, eucalyptus, peppermint, and lavender can repel mosquitoes and flies. Diffuse them or dilute them with a carrier oil and apply them to your skin (with caution, and test a small area first).  
• Cleanliness:
  • Keep your home clean, especially the kitchen.
  • Dispose of food scraps promptly and keep garbage cans tightly sealed.  
  • Wash dishes regularly and avoid leaving food out.  
• Fans:
  • Fans create air currents that make it difficult for mosquitoes and flies to fly.  

Outdoor Methods:

• Eliminate Breeding Grounds:
  • Mosquitoes breed in standing water. Eliminate any sources of stagnant water, such as:
    • Bird baths
    • Flower pots
    • Gutters  
    • Tires  
    • Puddles  
  • Change pet water bowls daily.
• Citronella Candles and Torches:
  • Citronella is a natural mosquito repellent. Light citronella candles or torches around your outdoor seating area.  
• Insect Repellent:
  • Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
• Outdoor Fans:
  • Similar to indoor fans, outdoor fans can create air currents that deter mosquitoes and flies.  
• Plant Repellent Plants:
  • Certain plants naturally repel mosquitoes and flies:
    • Citronella grass
    • Lavender  
    • Marigolds  
    • Rosemary  
    • Basil  
• Traps:
  • Mosquito traps that use propane, or other attractants can be used outdoors.  
• Yard Maintenance:
  • Keep grass mowed, and bushes trimmed, as these are places that mosquitos like to reside.  

General Tips:

• Garlic:
  • Some people believe that consuming garlic or placing garlic cloves around areas can repel insects.  
• Vinegar:
  • A mixture of apple cider vinegar and dish soap can trap flies.  
• Regular Cleaning:
  • Regularly cleaning outdoor garbage cans, and compost bins, will reduce the amount of flies.  

By combining these methods, you can significantly reduce the number of flies and mosquitoes around your home.