Summer is the perfect time to throw open the doors, dine outdoors and enjoy warmer evenings. Unfortunately, fresh air and alfresco meals can also attract unwanted flies into your home and garden.
But before reaching for chemical sprays, you may already have a simple natural deterrent sitting in your fruit bowl. When combined with fragrant herbs and a candle, lemons can be used to create an easy fly-repelling table decoration.
Costing as little as 80p, the lemon and herb candle jar hack is quick to assemble, helps discourage flies and doubles as a pretty summer centrepiece.
Here, we explain how to try the lemon candle hack, plus more natural ways to help keep flies away from your home and outdoor dining space.
The 80p lemon trick that helps deter flies
It might sound too simple to be true, but a combination of citrus, herbs and candlelight can help deter flies from outdoor dining areas.
‘If you are looking for a cheap, pretty, and effective way to keep flies away from the dinner table, try this DIY candle jar hack using ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen or garden,’ says Jade Oliver, home stylist at Express Bi-Folding Doors.
To make your own natural fly deterrent, start with a clear glass jar or bowl and add slices of lemon, along with sprigs of rosemary, mint, or lavender. Fill the container with water, then place a floating tealight candle on top.
‘Once lit, the warmth from the candle releases the natural citrus and herb scents, creating a gentle barrier that flies steer clear of, while doubling as a beautiful table centrepiece for summer evenings,’ Jade explains.
The strong scents from citrus and fragrant herbs are thought to be unpleasant to flies, helping to make your dining area less appealing. The best part? It costs very little to make and can be refreshed throughout the summer.
More natural ways to keep flies away
As well as lemon and herbs, there are other easy methods that can be used to deter pesky flies. For example, flies hate the smell of oils like peppermint and lemongrass.
‘Cut strips of kitchen paper or cloth, add a few drops of your chosen oil, and hang them around open windows and bi-folding doors to create a scent barrier that stops flies drifting in as you let the summer air through,’ Jade suggests.
You can also try used ground coffee grounds. ‘Don't throw away used coffee grounds – instead, scatter them in small bowls around your outdoor dining space or near open doors,’ adds Jade. The smell helps keep flies away, along with ants and wasps.
Finally, clear away plates promptly after eating, as leftover food will attract flies and encourage them to linger. It's also worth emptying standing water from plant saucers and pet bowls, as this can make your outdoor space less appealing to flies.
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