How to fight and prevent a housefly infestation
HOUSEFLIES will have started zooming through people's windows over the last couple of weeks, as hot weather keeps windows wide open. How do you fight and prevent a housefly infestation?
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Hot weather has persuaded people across the UK to keep their windows open wide. The latest mid-20C temperatures have taken many by surprise, but positively. However, they could also tempt some unwelcome guests, either on their own or in a group.
How to fight a housefly infestation
Most people will spend the summer killing or shoo-ing individual flies from their homes.
Sometimes, however, several may descend at the same time and circle around in a semi-swarm.
Thankfully, if people end up on the wrong end of an infestation, there are some ways to get rid of them.
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Trap them
Pest controllers have developed a range of traps to eliminate wayfaring flies.
Both budget and hi-tech versions exist, ranging from sticky flypaper to electric catchers.
People can also make natural traps with a combination of vinegar and dish soap.
Apple cider vinegar, which already has a myriad of uses, also makes an effective fly trap on its own in a container.
Keep everything clean
Flies will often drift into a home without an express purpose, but they will find one if people leave out food or drink.
They should ensure they clean dishes and spillages as they happen, as otherwise, they could attract flies and a range of other insects.
The bins they use should have a lid tightly placed on top, as they will also interest swarms.
Any leftovers should go quickly into a container as well, as interested flies could spread harmful bacteria to future meals.
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Use screens
People who would prefer not to kill flies can make sure they can't enter a home in the first place.
Insect screens made of a tight mesh will allow air in during the summer but keep flies out.
Both houseflies and mosquitoes will have trouble getting in with the right net.
Remove dead flies
Once homeowners have settled on a method to get rid of their uninvited guests, they will need to deal with the fallout.
Any traps or prevention method require regular cleaning, as, otherwise, dead flies could attract other pests.
Carpet beetles and spiders both like to take advantage of dead insects lying on a windowsill or elsewhere.