Winter months often lead to a decrease in housefly activity, but these pesky insects may still find their way indoors. Understanding how to get rid of houseflies during this season is essential for maintaining a clean and comfortable living space.
Houseflies can transmit various pathogens and cause diseases, making their removal crucial for protecting your health. One effective method of controlling housefly populations is the use of biological control, which involves introducing beneficial organisms that target the flies at their immature stages.
Additionally, preventing an infestation includes diligent cleaning routines like vacuuming, washing fabrics, and disposing of waste properly. By employing these strategic preventive measures, you can keep your home free from houseflies throughout the winter months.
Understanding the Winter Housefly Problem
Houseflies vs Cluster Flies
Houseflies and cluster flies are two types of insects that may invade homes during winter. Houseflies are smaller with six legs, while cluster flies are a bit larger and are more erratically moving creatures1. Here’s a comparison of the two flies:
| Feature | Housefly | Cluster Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Smaller (1/4 inch) | Larger (3/8 – 1/2 inch) |
| Color | Shiny black | Dull grayish-brown |
| Movement | Quick, fast | Slow, erratic |
| Breeding | Organic materials, decomposing food | Earthworms |
Breeding and Infestation During Cold Months
During the cold winter months, these flies seek warmth in buildings and homes. Here are some aspects to be aware of with breeding and infestations:
- Houseflies breed in moist, decomposing organic materials2.
- Cluster flies lay their eggs outdoors and their larvae parasitize earthworms1.
- Dark-winged fungus gnats may be found around houseplants during winter3.
- Proper identification of the specific fly species is crucial for effective control4.
To prevent infestations in winter, consider the following preventive measures:
- Seal cracks and openings around windows and doors to keep flies from entering.
- Keep your trash well-sealed and clean to prevent housefly breeding.
- Minimize overwatering houseplants to avoid fungus gnat infestations3.
- Use light traps and insecticide fogs as a temporary relief for low-level fly problems5.
By being informed about the differences between houseflies, cluster flies, and other winter pests, you can take appropriate measures to keep your home fly-free during the cold months.
Preventing Housefly Infestations in Winter
Sealing Your Home
Sealing your home is an essential step to prevent housefly infestations. Inspect for gaps and cracks on your foundation, walls, and attics. Use caulk or sealant to close these openings.
Examples of common sealing spots include:
- Door and window frames
- Wall cracks
- Attic openings and vents
Keeping a Clean House
Maintaining a clean house reduces the attractiveness for houseflies. Regularly clean surfaces and floors. Always store food in sealed containers.
A clean home means:
- No exposed food
- Clean surfaces
- Minimal clutter
Proper Waste Management
Proper waste management helps limit housefly infestations. Regularly empty garbage and store waste in sealed containers. Avoid leaving garbage indoors for extended periods.
Some tips for managing waste:
- Use garbage cans with tight-fitting lids
- Regularly empty your trash cans
- Keep garbage area clean
Screening Doors and Windows
Screening doors and windows minimizes the entry of houseflies. Install screens on doors and windows. Regularly inspect and repair damaged screens.
Benefits of screened doors and windows:
- Minimized entry of houseflies
- Better interior airflow
- Protection from other insects
Comparison table of sealing methods:
| Sealing Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Caulk | Effective air sealant, paintable | Can shrink or crack over time |
| Weatherstripping | Long-lasting, easy to install | May require occasional replacement |
| Sealant tapes | Quick and easy application | May damage surfaces when removed |
Remember, short and simple actions can make a significant difference in preventing housefly infestations during the winter months.
Effective Natural Housefly Control Methods
Natural Traps and Repellents
Vinegar and Fruit Traps
One way to deal with houseflies in the winter is by using natural traps. A popular homemade trap combines water and vinegar. Here’s an example:
- Fill a jar with water, a spoonful of sugar, and a few drops of dish soap.
- Add some apple cider vinegar or wine.
- Cover the jar with plastic wrap and poke small holes.
The sweet mix attracts flies, and the dish soap makes them slip and drown.
Sticky Traps
You can also use sticky traps as an easy and natural way to catch houseflies. Examples:
- Honey or molasses on yellow cards.
- Commercially available sticky fly strips.
Herbs and Plants That Deter Flies
Fly-Repelling Herbs
Some herbs are excellent for repelling houseflies. Growing them in pots around your house can help reduce fly populations. Examples:
- Basil
- Lavender
- Bay leaves
These emit strong smells that deter flies without compromising the health of your family or pets.
Use Cayenne Pepper
Spreading cayenne pepper in likely breeding spots can discourage flies from laying eggs.
Fly-Repelling Plants
There are also plants that are natural fly repellents, like the Venus Flytrap, which is an insectivorous plant that catches and consumes small insects like houseflies.
Comparison Table: Natural Fly Traps vs. Fly-Repelling Herbs
| Natural Fly Traps | Fly-Repelling Herbs |
|---|---|
| Attract and trap flies | Deter flies from the area |
| Require regular cleaning | Low maintenance |
| Use common household ingredients | Can be grown indoors and outdoors |
Dealing with Current Housefly Infestations
Insecticides and Pesticides
- Pros: Quick and effective
- Cons: Chemicals can harm humans and pets
Insecticides and pesticides are often a quick and effective way to deal with houseflies. However, these chemicals can sometimes be harmful to humans and pets.
Using Traps and Swatters
- Pros: Chemical-free, reusable
- Cons: Requires effort, not always effective
Using traps and swatters are a more natural way to eliminate houseflies. Traps can be purchased or homemade, and swatters are easy to find.
Comparison Table:
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Insecticides | Quick, effective | Chemicals, harm humans & pets |
| Traps & Swatters | Chemical-free, reusable | Requires effort, not always effective |
Safe Methods for Indoor and Outdoor Use
- Indoor: Sticky tape, fly paper, essential oils
- Outdoor: Natural repellents, plants
For indoor use, consider safe methods like sticky tape, fly paper, or essential oils. These methods are safe for both humans and pets.
For outdoor use, try natural repellents or plants that discourage houseflies from settling in your yard. This helps reduce the risk of houseflies entering your home.
Footnotes
- (https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/insects/cluster-flies-and-other-winter-flies-5-618/) ↩ ↩2
- (https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/environmental-health-protection/structural-pest-control/house-flies-other-filth-flies.html) ↩
- (https://insectlab.russell.wisc.edu/2020/12/28/fungus-gnats-tiny-flies-around-your-houseplants/) ↩ ↩2
- (https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/asset-external/indoor-flies-and-their-control/) ↩
- (https://schoolipm.tamu.edu/forms/pest-management-plans/ipm-action-plan-for-house-flies-and-filth-flies/) ↩
4 Comments. Leave new
this is a NON-EDIBILITY related comment:
what do you have against the hyphen??
It should be some kind of Celyphidae.
For the past week I thought mosquitoes were biting me…. Well, it wasn’t that. I have over 70 little bites on my body and the other night it was dark and I kept seeing these little flies while I was on the computer. . They looked like fruit flies but weren’t. What the heck are they and how do I get them not to bite me? Every morning I wake up with more! Someone told me to get rid of my bamboo plants in my room because I saw them in there. I am now on prednisone because I’m so swollen! Help!!
They sound like they might be No-See-Ums.