Before we launch a full-scale fly eviction, let’s understand what’s drawing them in. Flies aren’t just random drifters—they have a purpose (albeit an annoying one). Here are the top reasons they won’t leave your yard alone:
- Food scraps and garbage – Whether it’s a forgotten burger bun from last week’s cookout or an open trash bin, flies consider your leftovers a five-star meal.
- Pet waste – As unpleasant as it is, flies find pet droppings irresistible. If you’ve got a dog, you’ve got a fly magnet.
- Standing water – Birdbaths, clogged gutters, and even that neglected watering can provide the perfect breeding ground for flies.
- Sweet-smelling plants – While flowers like lavender and basil smell delightful to us, they can attract certain fly species looking for nectar.
Now that we know what’s luring them in, let’s talk about how to get rid of flies outside using natural methods, preventive steps, and a few strategic fly control techniques.
How to Get Rid of Flies Outside: Proven Methods That Work
1. Natural Fly Repellents
Want to fight flies the natural way? Here are some effective (and pleasantly scented) options:
- Plants that repel flies – Set up an anti-fly fortress with basil, lavender, marigolds, mint, and citronella. Not only do they add greenery to your yard, but they’ll make flies think twice before crashing your space.
- DIY essential oil spray – Mix clove, eucalyptus, or lemon oil with water and spray it around patios, doorways, and picnic tables. Flies hate strong scents (probably why they prefer garbage).
- Apple cider vinegar trap – Fill a jar with apple cider vinegar, add a few drops of dish soap, and cover it with plastic wrap. Poke holes in the wrap, and watch flies dive in—only to never return.
2. Keep It Clean: The Best Fly Prevention Tactics
The best offense is a good defense. Here’s how to make your yard as unappealing as possible to flies:
Take out the trash (literally) – Make sure garbage bins have tight-fitting lids, and empty them regularly. Bonus points for washing them out every now and then to remove food residue.
Scoop the poop – If you have pets, clean up after them often. Flies aren’t picky—they’ll land on that mess and then make a beeline for your picnic table.
Drain standing water – Check for puddles, unclog gutters, and change the water in birdbaths frequently. If mosquitoes and flies are having pool parties in your yard, it’s time to shut them down.
Seal up cracks and openings – If flies are sneaking into your home through gaps in windows and doors, consider installing screens or sealing small openings.
3. Fly Control Solutions That Actually Work
For those dealing with a full-on fly invasion, here are a few battle-ready tactics:
Fly paper & sticky traps – Simple but effective. Hang sticky traps near patios and trash bins to catch flies in their tracks. Just be sure to change them regularly unless you want an unsightly collection of bug corpses hanging around.
Electric bug zappers – These work like a charm, especially at night. Flies are drawn to the light and get zapped before they can ruin your evening.
Outdoor fans – Flies are weak fliers (ironic, right?). Setting up an oscillating fan on your patio can keep them at bay—plus, it keeps you cool!
Non-toxic insecticides – For persistent fly problems, a mild insecticide or fly spray can help. Just make sure it’s pet-friendly and safe for the environment.
How to Prevent Future Fly Infestations
Flies are like bad house guests—if you make them too comfortable, they’ll never leave. Here are some long-term strategies to keep them away:
- Store food properly – If you’re dining outdoors, cover food with mesh lids or use fly-proof containers.
- Keep compost far from your home – Flies love decomposing matter, so make sure your compost bin is well-covered and kept at a distance.
- Regular yard maintenance – Trim overgrown bushes, remove fallen fruit, and sweep up any food crumbs or spills.
By following these steps, you’ll drastically reduce the fly population in your outdoor space, making it much more enjoyable for you—and much less attractive to those buzzing intruders.
Final Thoughts: Say Goodbye to Flies for Good!
Now that you know how to get rid of flies outside, you can finally reclaim your backyard without constantly waving your arms like a maniac. Whether it’s natural repellents, preventive cleaning, or strategic fly traps, you have plenty of options to keep your outdoor space bug-free.
If you’re looking for expert help in maintaining a clean and pest-free environment, check out Denver cleaning services for professional solutions that make fly problems a thing of the past!
