Flies are not only a nuisance but also a serious health hazard. They carry and spread many diseases, bacteria and viruses, such as salmonella, typhoid fever, cholera, and many others.

Apart from that, they can lay their eggs on food and even vomit on it in order to dissolve it and thus prepare it for consumption. Therefore, it is essential to keep flies away from your food to avoid possible health hazards.

What Attracts Flies?

Flies are attracted to various things, such as garbage, rotting food, feces, and even sweat. They are especially attracted to food that is sweet, such as fruits, soda, and desserts.

They are also attracted to food that has a strong odor, such as onions, garlic, and meat. Therefore, it is important to eliminate any rotting food and to keep your cooking area clean and odor-free.

How to Keep Flies Away from Your Food?

There are several ways to keep flies away from your food. Here are some tips:.

1. Cover Your Food

One of the easiest ways to keep flies away from your food is to cover it. You can use a mesh food cover or a plastic wrap to cover your food. This will prevent flies from landing on your food and also protect it from other contaminants.

This is especially important when dining outside or having a picnic.

2. Keep Your Kitchen Clean

Keeping your kitchen clean can help reduce the number of flies in your home. Make sure to dispose of trash daily and seal it tightly. Clean spills and crumbs on your countertops and floors, as they can attract flies.

Rinse dishes and utensils before placing them in the sink or dishwasher.

3. Don’t Leave Food Unattended

Leaving food unattended is an open invitation for flies. They will quickly sniff out the food and devour it. Therefore, it is important to always watch over your food, especially when cooking or eating outside.

If you need to leave your food unattended, make sure to cover it or put it away in the refrigerator.

4. Use Fly Traps

Using fly traps can help trap and kill flies. Fly traps come in different forms, such as sticky traps or electric traps.

Sticky traps use a sticky substance to catch flies while electric traps use UV light to draw flies towards it and then electrocute them. Make sure to place fly traps in areas where flies are most active, such as near garbage cans, sinks, or food storage areas.

5. Keep Your Dining Area Clean

Keeping your dining area clean is important to prevent flies from landing on your food. Wipe down your table and chairs before and after each meal. Avoid using scented candles or air fresheners, as they can attract flies.

You can also use a fan to create a breeze that will help keep flies away.

6. Use Natural Fly Repellents

There are several natural fly repellents that you can use to keep flies away from your food. One of the most effective ones is basil. Flies hate the smell of basil, so you can place a pot of basil on your table or around your dining area.

You can also use essential oils, such as eucalyptus, peppermint, or lavender, to repel flies. Simply place a few drops in a spray bottle filled with water and spray it around your dining area.

7. Use Food Domed Covers

Using food domed covers is another way to keep flies away from your food. These covers are perfect for outdoor events and barbecues as they are both stylish and practical.

They are made of metal mesh and have a handle on top, making them easy to carry around.

8. Eliminate Standing Water

Flies breed and lay their eggs in standing water, so it is important to eliminate any standing water around your home. This includes pet bowls, bird baths, and even flower pots.

Make sure to drain and refill them regularly to prevent flies from laying their eggs.

9. Use Citrus Peels

Citrus peels, such as lemon or orange peels, can help repel flies. Simply place them around your dining area or near your garbage cans. The strong smell of citrus will help keep flies away. You can also use a mixture of citrus peels and cloves.

Boil them in water and then place the mixture in a spray bottle. Spritz it around your dining area to keep flies away.

10. Hire a Pest Control Professional

If you have a serious fly problem, it may be time to call in a pest control professional. They can help identify the source of the problem and develop a plan to eliminate the flies.

They may also recommend ongoing pest control services to prevent future infestations.

Conclusion

Keeping flies away from your food is essential for a healthy meal. By following the tips above, you can reduce the number of flies in your home and keep your dining area clean and safe.

Remember to cover your food, keep your kitchen clean, and use natural fly repellents to keep flies at bay. By doing so, you can enjoy your meals without worrying about the health hazards associated with flies.