Best Ways to Prevent Flies in the Summer Heat
Summer is the season of sunshine, backyard barbecues, and… flies. Those buzzing nuisances can turn a relaxing afternoon into a constant battle to keep them away from food and living spaces. Understanding why flies appear more in hot weather—and how to prevent them—can help homeowners enjoy the season without uninvited guests.
Why Flies Are More Common in Summer
Flies thrive in warm temperatures. Summer provides ideal conditions for their breeding, feeding, and survival. Here’s why:
- Increased Breeding Opportunities: Flies lay eggs in moist, organic matter, including trash, compost, and pet waste. Summer heat accelerates their life cycle, meaning populations can grow quickly.
- More Food Sources: Outdoor eating, uncovered garbage, and rotting fruit attract flies. They’re drawn to kitchens, patios, and outdoor dining areas.
- Open Homes and Windows: As homeowners open windows and doors to enjoy the summer breeze, flies find easy access indoors.
Knowing these factors helps you take targeted action to keep flies away.
Top Prevention Strategies for Homeowners
1. Maintain a Clean Home
- Kitchen Care: Wipe down counters, sweep floors, and promptly clean up spills. Keep food stored in sealed containers.
- Trash Management: Use bins with tight-fitting lids and take out garbage regularly. Rinse recyclables to remove residue.
- Pet Waste Control: Remove pet waste from yards promptly, as it’s a prime breeding site for flies.
2. Secure Your Outdoor Areas
- Cover Food: When eating outside, use lids or mesh covers to protect food.
- Manage Compost and Mulch: Keep compost bins closed and consider relocating them away from patios or play areas.
- Maintain Landscaping: Trim overgrown shrubs and remove decaying plant material to reduce fly-attracting debris.
3. Keep Windows and Doors Fly-Free
- Install screens on windows and doors to prevent entry.
- Repair any tears or holes in existing screens.
- Consider using door sweeps to close gaps at the bottom of doors.
4. Reduce Standing Water
- Flies are attracted to moist environments. Empty birdbaths, pet water bowls, and planters regularly to prevent breeding sites.
5. Use Natural Deterrents
- Certain plants, like basil, lavender, and mint, can help repel flies naturally. Place them near entrances or outdoor seating areas.
- Vinegar traps and other non-toxic methods can also help reduce small fly populations indoors.
When Professional Help Makes Sense
Even with the best preventive efforts, flies can sometimes become a persistent problem. Specter Pest Control offers safe, modern, and highly effective solutions tailored to residential homes. Our team can:
- Identify the sources attracting flies to your home
- Provide targeted treatments that minimize chemical exposure
- Recommend ongoing strategies to keep flies away season after season
Professional support ensures your summer gatherings stay comfortable, safe, and fly-free.
Bottom Line
Flies in the summer are more than just a nuisance—they can affect food safety and overall comfort in your home. By maintaining cleanliness, securing entry points, managing outdoor spaces, and knowing when to call in experts, you can enjoy the season without the buzz.
Don’t let flies take over your summer. Schedule your free home inspection with Specter Pest Control today and get fast, reliable help from your trusted pest pros.
