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They often arrive unannounced, like uninvited guests. A buzz in the kitchen, two or three circling the fruit bowl, and suddenly the windows become their favorite playground. Yes, flies can quickly transform a peaceful interior into a small, irritating scene of acrobatics.
But if they’re there, it’s not by chance. Their presence says something about your home, and fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to get rid of them without having to bring out the big guns.
Why are there flies in my house? What they reveal about your home
Flies don’t just appear out of thin air. They’re attracted to certain specific conditions: food scraps left out in the open, a slightly overfilled trash can, a ripe piece of fruit left in the bin, or excessive humidity. This is especially true in summer, when the heat accelerates the decomposition of organic waste. And they never miss an opportunity.
But what’s less well known is that a fly infestation can also be a small warning sign: poor ventilation, hygiene issues that need to be reviewed, or even… a hidden problem in the pipes. A discreet leak or a drainage problem can create an ideal environment for these insects. If, despite your efforts, the flies keep coming back, it might be worth doing a quick plumbing check.
Another thing to know: not all flies are alike. There are the classic house flies , which are often large and noisy. Midges , on the other hand, are smaller and readily invite themselves in as soon as a fruit starts to overripe. And then there are fruit flies , which are real specialists at detecting the slightest drop of fermented juice. Recognizing them is already a better way to defend yourself.
And be careful, in rare cases, the presence of flies can signal something else: a small dead animal in a vent or an attic (yes, it’s not very appetizing, but it happens). Again, if the origin completely escapes you, a professional can help you see more clearly.
The right reflexes to prevent them from taking hold
The first weapon against flies is hygiene. And here, we’re talking about simple, everyday actions: emptying trash cans before they overflow, covering ripe fruit, and thoroughly cleaning sinks and drains (even if they look clean).
The kitchen and bathroom are the two rooms to keep an eye on. Remember to ventilate them well, especially after cooking or taking a shower. And while we don’t often think about it, even leftover kibble or pet food can attract visitors. So, don’t leave anything lying around.
A simple but effective trick: place a cork cut in half in the fruit basket . The natural smell of the cork tends to repel them. And it’s completely harmless.
A final word on essential oils: yes, some, like lemongrass or lavender, are known to repel insects. But be careful if you have young children or pets, as they can be irritating or poorly tolerated.
Natural solutions that really work
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