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HOW TO KEEP FLIES AWAY FROM YOUR PATIO

As the weather warms up, your patio becomes the perfect spot for outdoor gatherings and grilling with family and friends. However, there’s one pesky problem that can ruin the fun—flies. They buzz around your face and land on your food, constantly interrupting your enjoyment. Don’t let these unwelcome guests spoil your outdoor experience! Here’s how to get rid of flies on the patio and keep your space pest-free.

Why Are There So Many Flies Outside My House?

Flies are most active from spring through fall, with their peak season during the summer months. Female flies can lay over 100 eggs after mating, and if the weather is warm enough, those eggs hatch into larvae in less than 8 hours. Adult flies can live for up to 3 months, so if you’re dealing with a fly problem, it’s important to address the source of the issue.

To effectively get rid of flies, start by identifying and removing the breeding grounds that are attracting them. Flies are particularly drawn to garbage and organic waste, where they lay their eggs. When they land on these areas, they can spread contamination to other surfaces. By eliminating the sources of attraction both indoors and outdoors, you’ll be taking the first step toward a fly-free home and patio.

Why Is It Important To Get Rid Of Flies?

Flies are not only annoying, but they’re also carriers of harmful bacteria and diseases. These restless insects move from one place to another, landing on surfaces like walls, your skin, pet waste, and trash, increasing the risk of spreading infection. Flies are known to transmit serious illnesses such as typhoid and paratyphoid fevers, diarrhea, dysentery, cholera, and conjunctivitis. They can also carry dangerous pathogens like salmonella, anthrax, and tuberculosis, and even the eggs of parasitic worms.

If you’re ready to tackle your fly problem, it’s time to explore how to effectively get rid of flies and keep your home safe and clean.

How To Get Rid Of Flies

Flies are not only annoying, but they’re also carriers of harmful bacteria and diseases. These restless insects move from one place to another, landing on surfaces like walls, your skin, pet waste, and trash, increasing the risk of spreading infection. Flies are known to transmit serious illnesses such as typhoid and paratyphoid fevers, diarrhea, dysentery, cholera, and conjunctivitis. They can also carry dangerous pathogens like salmonella, anthrax, and tuberculosis, and even the eggs of parasitic worms.

If you’re ready to tackle your fly problem, it’s time to explore how to effectively get rid of flies and keep your home safe and clean.

HOW DO YOU GET RID OF FLIES OUTSIDE?

You can easily get rid of flies outside with these six simple steps:

  • Use an Oscillating Fan: Set up a fan on an extension cord on your patio. Flies struggle to fly in strong wind, so the breeze will keep them away from your space.
  • Make Natural Fly Traps: Dissolve 1/4 cup of sugar in 1 cup of water in a jar for each trap. Roll a piece of paper into a cone and tape it inside the jar, ensuring the narrow end is just above the liquid. The funnel will attract flies into the jar, where they’ll get trapped.
  • Light Citronella Candles: Citronella, an oil extracted from lemongrass, is a natural fly and mosquito repellent. Light several citronella candles around your patio to keep flies at bay with the strong, aromatic scent.
  • Swat the Flies: If you want an immediate solution, grab a fly swatter. For extra efficiency, use an electric fly swatter that zaps the flies with a loud zap, taking care of your pesky problem fast.
  • Hang Vodka Bags: Flies are repelled by the smell of vodka. Fill small plastic bags halfway with cheap vodka, zip them almost closed, and hang them around your yard with twine and clothespins. The odor will drive the flies away.
  • DIY Fly Strips: Create your own fly strips by cutting cloth into 12-inch long strips and moistening them with a few drops of essential oils like clove, lavender, citronella, or eucalyptus. Hang the strips around your patio to naturally repel flies with their strong scents.

By using these methods, you can keep flies away and enjoy your outdoor space in peace!

What Smells Do Flies Hate?

For some reason, flies hate the smell of certain products, which makes them ideal for use in homemade fly repellents.

Here are several natural remedies to get rid of flies, along with their pros and cons:

  1. Vodka and Essential Oils
  • How to use: Mix 1 cup of vodka, 2 teaspoons of aloe vera juice, 1 teaspoon of lemon eucalyptus oil, and ½ teaspoon of an essential oil blend in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture on infested areas.
  • Pros: No chemicals, easy to use, effective.
  • Cons: May cause skin irritation for those with sensitive skin.

2. Lemongrass Oil

  • How to use: Combine 20-25 drops of lemongrass oil with ½ cup of hot water in a spray bottle. Spray on doorways, windows, and other areas to repel flies.
  • Pros: Natural, fresh-smelling, non-toxic.
  • Cons: Essential oils can be expensive.

3. Cloves and Citrus

  • How to use: Insert 6-12 cloves into halved lemons or apples and use as a centerpiece during meals. Alternatively, use clove oil.
  • Pros: Chemical-free, doubles as an attractive decoration.
  • Cons: Effective mainly against houseflies.

4. Vinegar and Witch Hazel

  • How to use: Mix ¼ cup apple cider vinegar, ¼ cup witch hazel, and 30-60 drops of eucalyptus oil in a spray bottle. Shake well and spray on fly-prone areas.
  • Pros: Natural, works well as a repellent, can be used as body lotion.
  • Cons: Only effective against houseflies, may irritate eyes.

5. Fly-Repelling Herbs

  • How to use: Grow basil, elder, lavender, tansy, wormwood, rue, and mint in pots near doorways to repel flies.
  • Pros: Effective, purifies the air, adds a pleasant aroma.
  • Cons: Some herbs may not thrive depending on environmental conditions.

6. Citronella

  • How to use: Light citronella candles or use camphor to repel flies with their smoke.
  • Pros: No chemicals, works on all types of flies.
  • Cons: Smoke can aggravate respiratory conditions.

7. Malt Vinegar

  • How to use: Heat malt vinegar in a pot until it starts to boil, then place it in fly-infested areas. The scent will repel flies.
  • Pros: Natural, effective.
  • Cons: May be difficult to control the scent in large areas.

Each of these methods provides a natural and chemical-free way to get rid of flies, though some may be more suited for specific environments or types of flies.

HOW TO KEEP FLIES AWAY

To not only get rid of flies but also prevent them from re-entering your home, try these smart strategies:

  1. Keep Things Clean: Flies are attracted to open trash cans, uncovered compost bins, and dog waste. Clean up food scraps immediately after outdoor gatherings, secure trash cans with tight lids, and dispose of dog droppings promptly.
  2. Embrace Spiders: Unless a spider’s web is in your way, leave them be. Spiders are natural predators of flies and will gladly help keep their numbers in check by snaring any flies they can catch.
  3. Plant Fly-Repelling Herbs: Use plants like basil, lavender, and mint both inside and around your home to naturally repel flies. These herbs can also add a lovely aroma to your patio and barbecue areas.
  4. Watch for Water: Flies need water to survive and are attracted to stagnant puddles, birdbaths, and areas with moisture from dripping sprinklers. Eliminate these water sources to reduce fly attraction.
  5. Clean Fruit Bird Feeders: Fruit bird feeders are often a magnet for flies. Once your feathered friends are done eating, remove any leftover rinds or scraps to prevent flies from gathering around the feeders.
  6. Mow Your Lawn Regularly: Flies like to lay eggs in long grass, which provides moisture and shelter. Mowing your lawn regularly, especially in the summer, will help eliminate potential breeding grounds for flies.

By maintaining a clean environment and using natural deterrents, you can keep flies from making a return and ensure your outdoor spaces remain fly-free.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, getting rid of flies on your patio and preventing their return involves a combination of cleanliness, natural repellents, and smart strategies. By keeping your outdoor spaces tidy, eliminating food and water sources, and using natural fly-repelling herbs and remedies, you can discourage these pests from invading your home and yard. Whether through the power of citronella, the help of spiders, or regular lawn care, you can create an environment that flies will want to avoid. With these simple and effective techniques, you’ll be able to enjoy your outdoor space without the nuisance of flies.

HOMEMADE HERBAL BATH MELTS

These herbal bath melts are perfect for moisturizing your skin, resetting your energy, calming your mind, and opening your heart. There’s no better way to unwind and release the day’s stress than through a self-care ritual, setting a personal bath intention. With these melts, you’ll create a soothing experience that nourishes both body and soul.

If you’ve been following the blog for a while, you know how much I advocate for self-care. One of my favorite ways to practice self-care is by enjoying a nourishing bath that refreshes both your skin and your spirit.

Over the years, I’ve shared various bathtime essentials, including bath salts, soaks, and bath bombs. These herbal bath melts offer a unique experience—they’re portable like bath bombs yet deliver the deep hydration of a bath soak, making them a perfect addition to your relaxation routine.

WHAT IS AN HERBAL BATH MELT?

Imagine the silky, indulgent experience of a bath soak combined with the convenience of a bath bomb. These herbal bath melts gently dissolve without fizzing, releasing essential herbs and oils for a deeply hydrating bath.

Infused with cocoa butter, shea butter, coconut oil, and skin-soothing herbs, these melts create a balanced, nourishing bath ritual that your skin will adore. As you soak, a sense of calm, renewal, and heart-opening warmth will envelop you, leaving your skin soft and replenished.

ARE BATH MELTS HARD TO MAKE?

Nope! Making herbal bath melts is actually quite simple and allows for a lot of flexibility with ingredients. All it takes is mixing your chosen ingredients, pouring them into a silicone mold, and letting them set.

The recipe I used combines clays, essential oils, organic flowers, and coconut oil. Unlike bath bombs, these herbal melts are less labor-intensive and offer more creative freedom. I love how soft and nourished my skin feels after using them!

The best part of this herbal bath melt recipe is its flexibility—you can tailor the ingredients to suit your specific herbal needs, spiritual intentions, or simply what you have on hand.

FAVORITE DIY HERBAL BATH MELT INGREDIENTS

Creating your own bath melts lets you design a bath experience perfectly suited to your needs. I often begin with Epsom salts, which offer muscle-relaxing properties and skin nourishment, much like a bath bomb.

I also love adding my favorite organic flowers like calendula and chamomile, which bring a touch of beauty and tranquility to the bath. Be sure they’re 100% organic since you’ll be soaking in them!

When choosing ingredients for your herbal bath melts, think about the self-care ritual you want to create—one that encourages focus and letting go. Each ingredient has nourishing properties for the skin, but consider those that uplift your soul as well.

HEART-OPENING HERBAL SOAK

There’s nothing quite like a warm bath to thaw your body, mind, and heart on a chilly evening. Let the cocoa butter in these herbal bath melts melt into your skin, providing deep moisture and warmth.

Rose is a beautiful, heart-opening addition to this ritual, perfect for the colder months when many of us feel more introspective. Chamomile brings a gentle, calming quality with its light floral aroma, helping you drift off to a peaceful place, while calendula offers soothing support as you release and heal from the past.

For a touch of winter magic, bright orange peel brings fresh energy to your connections, love, and dreams. And the earthy scent of cedar offers a grounding presence, helping you reconnect with your inner wisdom, grounding you as you explore and embrace your truest self.

Other ingredients added:

  • rose clay
  • french green clay
  • rhassoul clay
  • cocoa butter wafers
  • shea butter
  • essential oils
  • cedar leaf
  • calendula flowers
  • chamomile
  • dried orange peel
  • rose petals

These ingredients not only hold everything together but also provide essential nutrients to nourish your skin.

Feel free to get creative, experimenting with or mixing your favorite ingredients. Whatever herbs you choose, simply stick to the recommended ratios, and you’ll create a magical DIY bath melt every time!

HOW TO MAKE HERBAL BATH MELTS

First, weigh out the coconut oil, cocoa butter wafers, and shea butter using a digital kitchen scale.

Next, melt the ingredients in a double boiler or a makeshift double boiler (by placing a Pyrex measuring cup or bowl over a pan with an inch or two of simmering water) until the oils reach a fully melted state.

If you’re using any optional clay ingredients, divide the melted oils into separate bowls. Stir in each clay while mixing to ensure they melt smoothly. Keep in mind that different clay types will affect the color of the melts and provide additional skin benefits.

Next, pour the melted oil mixtures into silicone molds. Then, in each mold, add Epsom salts and your chosen herbal ingredients. Feel free to use flower petals, cedar leaves, dried orange peel, or any other herbs in combinations that best suit your needs.

Allow the bath melts to dry and harden in the silicone molds overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can speed up the process by placing them in the refrigerator.

Once they are completely set, gently pop the herbal bath melts out of the molds. Then, enjoy your soothing ritual of self-love, self-realization, and self-companionship!

HOW TO STORE AND USE HERBAL BATH MELTS

While you await their use, keep these lovely bath melts at room temperature, storing them in a cool, dry, dark place away from direct sunlight.

If you live in or visit a very hot climate, it’s best to store the herbal bath melts in the refrigerator. After all, no one wants a pre-melted bath melt!

Use the herbal bath melts as needed to moisturize your skin and relax your mind. Embrace the herbal benefits as you reconnect with your inner self. Just as the melts cater to your individual needs, create a ritual that feels right for you in the moment.

There’s nothing selfish about self-care. You’ll discover that as the bath melt dissolves, you’ll also melt away the day’s stressors.

Simply place a bath melt into a tub of hot water and allow it to melt, releasing the soothing herbs as you soak. Enjoy the experience!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How can I avoid the bath melts making a mess in the bathtub?

If you’re concerned about a mess after using the bath melt, I have a few tips for you. First, grind the flower petals using a coffee grinder, a circle silicone mold, a double boiler insert, a blender, or a food processor to minimize residue. Second, you can use a cheesecloth secured with a rubber band to strain out any leftover materials, making cleanup easier.

Regarding plumbing worries, I found that while using the bath melts, I focused on applying the oils to my skin, similar to a lotion bar. By the end of your bath, you’ll likely notice any remaining oils floating on top of the water. You can scoop these up with a cup to prevent them from going down the drain. If this method doesn’t work for you, consider leaving out the Epsom salt from the recipe and using the bath melt right after getting out of the bath!

Will the bath melts stay solid at room temperature?

Absolutely! We created and tested the bath melts recipe to ensure they stay solid at room temperature. However, we recommend storing them in a cool, dark place until you’re ready to use them. Avoid sunny windows and be cautious when transporting the melts on hot days to keep them in perfect condition.

What tools will I need to make the bath melts?

I recommend using a silicone mold to shape the bath melts; I used a circular silicone mold for mine. For melting, I often set up a standard double boiler by placing a glass bowl on top of a pot filled with warm water. Alternatively, I love using a double boiler insert for easy heating and pouring. A kitchen scale is also helpful for measuring the ingredients accurately!

conclusion

In conclusion, creating your own herbal bath melts is a delightful and customizable way to enhance your self-care routine. By choosing ingredients that resonate with your needs and preferences, you can craft a soothing and nourishing bath experience that promotes relaxation, skin hydration, and inner peace. With simple steps and flexible options, you can enjoy the calming benefits of these bath melts while reconnecting with yourself. So gather your materials, let your creativity flow, and indulge in the magic of a personalized herbal bath ritual that rejuvenates both your body and mind! Enjoy every moment of your self-care journey!