How to prevent flies in the kitchen? Everything you need to know.

Attracted to leftover food and warm environments, flies are a problem that has affected all cultures throughout history. Besides being annoying, these insects can pose a health risk, as they can contaminate food with bacteria. How can we prevent the appearance of these flying insects in the kitchen?

The good news is that there are multiple natural and simple methods to combat this common problem, using elements we all fear in our homes, according to the newspaper El Mundo. Below are the best strategies to prevent flies and maintain a hygienic home environment:

1) Homemade traps: effective and economical solutions:

Apple cider vinegar trap: Fill a small jar with apple cider vinegar and add a drop of liquid detergent. Then cover the jar with perforated plastic wrap. Flies are attracted to the vinegar and become trapped when they try to enter.

Milk, sugar, and pepper trap: Boil half a liter of milk with four tablespoons of sugar and three tablespoons of pepper for 15 minutes. Place the mixture in small containers and distribute them in strategic areas. Attracted by the scent, flies become trapped in the liquid.

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2) Repellent plants: a natural barrier against flies Incorporating aromatic plants into your home not only helps beautify the space, but also works as a natural fly repellent. Some of the most effective are: - Basil: beyond its culinary function, it repels flies and can be grown in pots in the kitchen. - Lavender: in addition to its relaxing fragrance, its scent is a powerful repellent against flies and other insects. - Mint: the menthol it contains is unpleasant for flies, and it is easy to grow indoors. - Citronella: known for its ability to repel mosquitoes, it is also effective against flies.

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What other techniques can be applied?

3) Additional Methods to Keep Flies at Bay - Water Bags with Coins: Placing clear bags filled with water and coins near doors and windows can disorient flies due to reflections, preventing them from entering your home. - Homemade Flypaper: Cut strips of paper and soak them in a mixture of water, sugar, and honey until sticky. Hang them in areas where flies congregate to trap them.

4) Prevention through hygiene and maintenance

Keeping a kitchen clean is essential to prevent the proliferation of flies:- Clean kitchen surfaces and utensils regularly.- Store food in airtight containers.- Take out the trash frequently and use bins with lids.- Check for and eliminate any sources of moisture or decay, such as ripe fruit or food scraps.

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