Tried-and-Tested DIY Methods for South African Summers
South Africa’s summer of 2025 has brought with it a particularly pesky problem: flies. With the soaring temperatures and humidity, flies are thriving, making their way into homes and becoming a relentless nuisance. Battling the fly invasion can feel overwhelming, but if you’re at your wit’s end trying to keep them out, you’re not alone. Let’s explore some tried and tested DIY methods to deter these uninvited guests and reclaim your space.
Why Are Flies So Bad This Summer?
The summer heat in South Africa has been especially intense this year, creating ideal conditions for flies to breed and multiply. Factors like leftover food, open garbage, and even outdoor pet areas can attract these pests. However, battling the fly invasion doesn’t have to be difficult, because there are simple and budget-friendly ways to keep them at bay.
For info on how we keep your home fly-free, check out our Fly Programme!
1. Keep Your Home Spotless
Flies are drawn to food scraps, spills, and trash, so maintaining cleanliness is your first line of defense. To battle the fly invasion effectively, try the following tips:
- Seal Your Bins: Use bins with tight-fitting lids and empty them regularly.
- Clean Up Quickly: Wipe down surfaces immediately after cooking or eating.
- Store Food Properly: Keep all food covered or stored in airtight containers.
By staying proactive with cleanliness, you’re already taking a major step in battling the fly invasion.
2. Use Natural Fly Repellents
Harness the power of nature with these tried-and-true remedies to combat the fly invasion:
- Vinegar and Dish Soap Trap: Fill a shallow dish with apple cider vinegar and add a few drops of dish soap. The vinegar attracts the flies, and the soap breaks the surface tension, trapping them.
- Essential Oils: Flies hate the smell of lavender, eucalyptus, citronella, and peppermint. Add a few drops of these oils to water and spray the mixture around your home to repel flies effectively.
- Herbs: Place pots of basil, mint, or rosemary near doors and windows to naturally repel flies and battle the fly invasion with ease.
Using natural fly repellents is an environmentally friendly and effective way to keep these pests at bay.
3. DIY Fly Traps
If flies have already made their way in, traps can help reduce their numbers and assist in battling the fly invasion. Try these DIY solutions:
- Plastic Bottle Trap: Cut a plastic bottle in half, invert the top half, and place it inside the bottom half. Fill the bottle with a mixture of sugar water and vinegar to lure flies.
- Sticky Strips: Hang DIY sticky strips coated with a sugar solution to attract and trap flies.
DIY fly traps are easy to make and highly effective for dealing with flies indoors.
4. Fan Them Away
Flies are weak fliers and struggle against moving air. To help battle the fly invasion, place fans in strategic locations like your kitchen or dining area. The constant airflow will keep them away while cooling you down during the summer heat.
5. Regular Maintenance Outside
Flies often originate outdoors, so addressing the source is essential to battling the fly invasion effectively. Here are some tips:
- Clean Pet Areas: Remove pet waste promptly and wash outdoor areas regularly.
- Compost Carefully: If you have a compost heap, ensure it’s well-covered and properly maintained.
- Eliminate Standing Water: Drain water from plant saucers, bird baths, or any other containers.
Regular outdoor maintenance will greatly reduce the number of flies around your home and make battling the fly invasion much easier.
For more in-depth information on pest behavior, visit the South African Pest Control Association.
Conclusion
South Africa’s fly problem this summer may be frustrating, but battling the fly invasion is possible with these tried and tested DIY methods. By combining cleanliness, natural repellents, and preventive measures, you can significantly reduce their presence and enjoy a more comfortable, fly-free home. With a little effort, you’ll be well on your way to winning the battle against these summer pests.
What are your go-to solutions for battling the fly invasion? Share your tips and tricks in the comments!
