The 89p hack to keep flies out of your house during the hot weather – and you probably already have it in the fridge

The Sun

14-05-2025

FLIES are a common pest found in the summer months and they tend to constantly try and sneak into our homes.
While they may not be harmful, they certainly are annoying, but there's a simple way to get rid of them for good.
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Pesky flies often come into the house seeking shelter from the heat.
Fortunately, pest control experts have shared a simple and effective solution to this problem and you can get it in the supermarket for under £1.
Ideal Home said it is important to take preventative measures now so they don't get enticed to come to your home and ruin your evenings.
And according to the experts, all you need to deter flies is a cucumber, which you can buy from Tesco for 89p.
That's because house flies hate the smell of the vegetable, the experts add: "House flies are repelled by the scent of cucumbers, especially the more bitter varieties."
The exact reason is not fully understood, but it's believed that the natural compounds in cucumber skin, such as cucurbitacins, 'emit a smell that flies find unpleasant and instinctively avoid,' explains Glen Peskett, DIY expert at Saxton Blades.
Fruit flies are also known to avoid cucumbers, as they prefer to go for sweeter fruits.
By simply placing cucumber slices near entrances such as doors and windows, or in areas where flies congregate, like your kitchen bin or food waste container, you can get rid of them.
Most of us have cucumber lying around in the fridge so for many the hack will be free.
But experts say you need to be careful not to let the food rot, as this will attract flies, reports the Express.
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Georgios Likopoulos, an insect specialist at Fantastic Pest Control, stated: "Using cucumbers as a fly deterrent is simple and natural. It works best for light fly activity.
"When combined with good hygiene and exclusion tactics, it can contribute to broader, integrated pest management approaches.
"It might not get rid of all flies, but it can significantly reduce their numbers."
Glen also agrees, describing the method as 'surprisingly effective'.
However, he also emphasises that it won't eliminate all flies, so maintaining good house hygiene practices, such as keeping windows closed or blinds drawn, is essential.
IF you want to ensure that your home is pest free this summer, here's what you need to know.
Hornets and wasps - hate the smell of peppermint oil so spraying this liberally around your patio or balcony can help to keep them at bay.
Moths - acidic household white vinegar is effective for deterring moths. Soak some kitchen roll in vinegar and leave it in your wardrobe as a deterrent.
Flying ants - herbs and spices, such as cinnamon, mint, chilli pepper, black pepper, cayenne pepper, cloves, or garlic act as deterrents.
Mosquitoes - plants, herbs and essential oil fragrances can help deter mozzies inside and out. Try eucalyptus, lavender and lemongrass.