Effective Natural Ways to Repel Flies from Your Home

Flies are not only annoying but can also carry harmful pathogens that pose health risks to your family. That’s why keeping them out of your home—especially the kitchen and dining areas—is extremely important. Whenever you prepare food, set up offerings, or leave dishes uncovered, flies can quickly gather and contaminate everything they touch. To keep your living space clean and your meals protected, try these simple yet highly effective natural remedies using everyday ingredients you already have in your kitchen.

1. Use Basil Leaves

Flies strongly dislike the scent of basil. You can place a pot of fresh basil near your dining table, kitchen counter, or any area where flies appear frequently. When you need extra protection—such as during meals or while burning incense—lightly crush a handful of basil leaves to release their essential oils and place them near the food. The aroma acts as a powerful natural repellent that keeps flies away.

Tip: Basil grows easily in pots, so maintaining one indoors can help repel insects all year round.

2. Lavender – A Pleasant Scent for Humans, but Not for Flies

Lavender is well-loved for its relaxing fragrance, but insects like flies, caterpillars, and fleas find it extremely unpleasant. You can grow a lavender plant indoors to beautify your home while keeping pests away. If planting isn’t convenient, hang small lavender sachets in your kitchen, near windows, or at entry points where flies often pass.

Bonus idea: A few drops of lavender essential oil added to a cotton ball can work just as effectively.

3. Repel Flies with Mint Leaves

Mint has a fresh, sharp aroma that flies can’t stand. You may use either dried mint or fresh leaves. Place them in small bowls near windowsills, food displays, or anywhere flies tend to gather. Crushing the mint leaves slightly helps release a stronger scent, increasing its effectiveness.

Mint tea bags—used or unused—can also serve as a convenient repellent.

4. Use Menthol Balm or Cooling Essential Oils

Cooling oils such as menthol, eucalyptus, or tea tree oil are very effective in deterring flies. Put a few drops on a paper napkin or cloth and leave it near your dining table or food trays. The strong, refreshing scent prevents flies from landing anywhere nearby.

This method is especially useful during festive gatherings or when you have outdoor meals.

5. Star Anise (Đinh hương) for Long-Lasting Protection

Star anise has a warm, spicy aroma that flies dislike. Place dried star anise in small breathable bags and hang them in your kitchen or near garbage bins. You can also boil star anise with water and use the aromatic liquid to wipe kitchen surfaces. This not only repels flies but also leaves your home smelling pleasant.

6. Lemons Combined with Cloves

Cut a lemon in half and stick several cloves into the surface, then place it on a plate near areas where flies gather—such as the dining table or windowsills. The combination of lemon and cloves releases a strong fragrance that naturally drives flies away.

Another trick is microwaving lemon slices briefly and opening the microwave door afterward to let the warm citrus aroma spread throughout the kitchen.

7. Use Citrus Peels (Orange, Tangerine, Grapefruit)

Don’t throw away citrus peels—they are excellent natural repellents. Place fresh peels near food areas or boil dried peels to create a fragrant steam that spreads throughout the house. Flies avoid the sharp citrus scent, making this a simple but effective solution.

8. Lemongrass Stalks

Lightly crush lemongrass stalks to release their essential oils, then place them on the dining table or food trays. The aroma of lemongrass naturally keeps flies away. You can also boil lemongrass to make a homemade spray for your kitchen.

9. Hang Water-Filled Plastic Bags

This popular trick works surprisingly well. Fill clear plastic bags with water, tie them tightly, and hang them at entry points such as doors and windows. The way light reflects off the water confuses the flies’ vision, making it difficult for them to navigate. As a result, they avoid entering the house.

This method is inexpensive and particularly useful in areas with high fly activity.

Additional Tips to Keep Flies Away

Even the best natural repellents won’t work if your home environment attracts flies. Make sure to:

• Keep kitchen surfaces clean and dry

• Cover food properly

• Dispose of garbage frequently

• Avoid leaving food scraps or sugary items exposed

• Clean drains and avoid stagnant water

A tidy, odor-free environment is one of the most powerful ways to prevent flies from entering your home.