How to Get Rid of a Fly Infestation

Professional Pest Control vs DIY Treatments for Flies

Hiring a professional exterminator has several advantages. First, they have access to stronger and more effective treatments that may not be available over the counter. These treatments are often more potent than those found at your local hardware or grocery store, meaning they can provide faster and longer-lasting results.

Moreover, pest control specialists can identify the root cause of the infestation and address it accordingly. This means they can determine where the flies are coming from, what is attracting them to your home, and how to prevent them from returning in the future. By addressing the underlying issue rather than just treating the symptoms, you can ensure that your fly problem is fully eradicated.

Another advantage of hiring a professional is that their services often come with a guarantee or warranty. This means that if the flies return within a certain period after treatment, they will return to re-treat at no additional cost to you.

However, one potential downside of hiring a professional exterminator is cost. Their services can be more expensive upfront compared to DIY treatments. However, as mentioned earlier, investing in professional services could save money in the long run by preventing further infestations.

While DIY treatments may seem like an affordable option for eliminating flies from your home, they may only provide temporary relief and not fully eradicate the problem. Over-the-counter sprays and traps may kill some flies but do not address the underlying issues that are attracting them to your home.

DIY Treatments for Fly Infestations

If you’re dealing with a house fly infestation, there are several home remedies that you can try before resorting to chemical sprays or pest control services.

Apple Cider Vinegar Traps

Apple cider vinegar traps are an effective way to catch and kill flies. To make one, fill a jar or bowl with apple cider vinegar mixed with dish soap. The dish soap breaks the surface tension of the vinegar so that when flies land on it, they sink into the liquid and drown.

Cloves and Essential Oils

Cloves have a strong, distinct smell that flies find unpleasant. You can place cloves in a small sachet or simply scatter them around your home to deter flies. Another option is to use essential oils like basil, peppermint, lavender, or eucalyptus. These oils have natural insect-repelling properties and can be used in diffusers or mixed with water to create a spray.

Homemade Fly Traps

One easy way to make a DIY fly trap is by using plastic wrap and sugar water. First, mix sugar with hot water until it dissolves completely. Then, let the mixture cool down and pour it into a shallow bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and secure it with a rubber band. Poke small holes in the plastic wrap so that flies can enter but cannot escape.

Venus Flytraps

Venus flytraps are carnivorous plants that eat insects like flies as part of their diet. They capture prey by producing nectar which attracts insects towards their leaves before snapping shut on them when triggered by tiny hairs on the surface. However, Venus flytraps require specific care and conditions to thrive such as high humidity, bright light, and distilled water.

Insecticides and Repellents for Fly Control

Insecticides and repellents are effective measures for fly control. These products come in different forms such as spray bottles, liquids, and powders.

Pyrethrin-Based Insecticides

Pyrethrin-based insecticides are one of the most common types of insecticides used for fly control. They are derived from chrysanthemum flowers and can be used to kill flies, fleas, and roaches. They work by attacking the nervous system of insects, causing paralysis and death.

When using pyrethrin-based insecticides, make sure to follow the safety instructions on the label carefully. Wear gloves and a mask when applying these products to avoid harm to yourself or others.

Natural Repellents

Citronella is a plant-based oil that has a strong scent which repels flies. It is commonly used in candles or you can mix it with water and spray it around your home. Eucalyptus oil contains compounds that irritate insects’ respiratory systems, making it difficult for them to breathe. Vinegar is also an effective natural repellent. Its strong smell deters flies from entering your home or landing on surfaces where it has been applied.

Other Options

Diatomaceous earth is a powder made from the fossilized remains of diatoms. It works by dehydrating insects, causing them to die. Boric acid is another type of insecticide that can be used for fly control. It attacks the nervous system of insects, causing paralysis and death.

When using any type of insecticide or repellent for fly control, read the label carefully and follow the instructions provided. You should also take precautions to ensure that these products are not harmful to yourself or others in your home.

Effective Methods for Killing Flies

If you can’t keep flies out of your home using preventative measures, there are several effective methods for getting rid of them quickly and easily.

Swatting Flies with a Flyswatter

Swatting flies with a flyswatter is one of the oldest and most effective methods for killing them. It’s quick, easy, and doesn’t require any chemicals. All you need is a flyswatter and some patience.

To swat flies effectively, wait until they land on a surface such as a wall or window. Then, carefully approach the fly with your flyswatter and strike it quickly but firmly. Be sure to aim accurately to avoid missing the fly or damaging your surroundings.

Light Traps for Fruit Flies

Fruit flies are a common problem in many homes, especially during the summer months when ripe fruit is abundant. To get rid of fruit flies, try using a light trap that emits UV light. These types of traps work by attracting the flies with the light and then trapping them on a sticky surface. You can purchase them at most hardware stores or online retailers.

Sucking Up Flies with a Vacuum Cleaner

Attach the hose extension to your vacuum cleaner and use it to suck up any flying insects that cross its path. This method works particularly well for catching multiple flies at once since they tend to cluster together in certain areas. Make sure to empty your vacuum bag or canister frequently so that it doesn’t become clogged with dead insects.

Sticky Fly Traps

To use a sticky fly trap, hang it up in an area where flies are present. The trap will attract the flies with its sweet scent, and once they land on it, they’ll become stuck and unable to escape. Sticky fly traps don’t require any maintenance or cleaning other than replacing them when they become full of dead insects. They’re also safe to use around children and pets since they don’t contain any harmful chemicals.

Electric Fly Zappers

Electric fly zappers use UV light to attract and kill flies. When a fly lands on the device, it’s electrocuted by a high-voltage grid inside the zapper. While this method is effective at killing flies quickly, it can be noisy and may not be suitable for all households.

If you decide to use an electric fly zapper, make sure to place it away from areas where people sleep or spend a lot of time since the noise can be disruptive. You’ll also need to clean out the device regularly since dead insects can accumulate inside over time.

Professional Treatments for Fly Infestations

Sometimes calling in the professionals is necessary. Here’s what you need to know about professional treatments for fly infestations.

Pest Control Companies Offer Various Treatments for Fly Problems

Pest control companies like Truly Nolen have a range of treatments available to eliminate fly infestations. The most common methods include chemical sprays and baits that target adult flies and their larvae. These treatments are effective in killing flies quickly and preventing them from reproducing.

A Truly Nolen professional can identify the underlying cause of the fly problem and address it accordingly. For example, if the flies are attracted to pet waste or decaying food, they may recommend cleaning up these areas and sealing any entry points where flies can enter your home.

Chemical Sprays and Baits Are Commonly Used in Professional Treatments

Chemical sprays and baits are commonly used by pest control companies to eradicate fly infestations. These products contain chemicals that are toxic to flies but safe for humans when used properly.

Sprays can be applied directly on surfaces where flies land or rest, such as walls, ceilings, and countertops. Baits come in different forms like gels or granules which attract flies with their sweet scent then kill them once ingested.

Chemical sprays should only be applied by trained professionals who know how to use them safely. Overuse or misuse of these products can lead to health hazards for humans or pets living in the treated area.

Professional Treatments Can Address Underlying Issues That Attract Flies

One advantage of hiring a pest control company is their ability to identify underlying issues that attract flies to your home. For example, if you have a flea problem in your house, this can be a significant attractant for flies. A Truly Nolen professional can help you address the flea problem and eliminate the source of attraction for flies.

Another common issue that attracts flies is moisture buildup in your home. Flies thrive in damp environments, so if you have a leaky pipe or standing water, this could be contributing to the fly problem. A Truly Nolen professional can identify these issues and help you fix them to prevent future infestations.

When to Call a Pro About Your Fly Problem

If you’ve tried DIY methods and still have a persistent fly problem, it’s time to call in the pros. If you’re dealing with an infestation that is too large or too dangerous to handle on your own, such as a swarm of biting flies or flies carrying diseases like E. coli or Salmonella, it’s best to leave it to the experts.

If you’re unsure about how to deal with your fly problem or are concerned about the safety of using chemical sprays or baits yourself, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and call Truly Nolen.

Say Goodbye to Pesky Flies in Your Home

Flies can be a real nuisance, but don’t worry — there are plenty of ways to prevent an infestation or get rid of one when it occurs. Whether you choose a professional pest control service like Truly Nolen or opt for DIY treatments, take action as soon as possible before the problem gets worse.