26 June 2023 , 14:49
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It's summer, which means many of us are enjoying more time outside, whether that be in our back gardens, on the balcony, or just by letting in a cool breeze through the windows when we can.
But unfortunately we aren't the only ones who thrive in the sunshine. You may have noticed that flies tend to invade your home during the summer months.
They normally enter your home because they are looking for a food source, whether that's food sitting out on the counter or the sugary drink in our hand. Once they have infiltrated your home it's often difficult to get them out, and what makes things even worse is that they tend to lay eggs in the warmer months too.
Luckily, there are things you can do that may help - and it doesn't have to involve deterrents that stink your house out with a strong odour.
Flies hate the smell of mint (stock image) (Getty Images/iStockphoto)Seeking advice for exactly this problem, a Facebook user asked on the Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips page: "Loads of flies everywhere in my house. How do I get rid? Thanks."
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The post received over 100 comments, but there was one tip in particular that stood out because of its simplicity - and the deterrent actually smells good.
One woman said: "Fresh mint. The stuff you grow in pots. Flies and ants hate it."
Another agreed, commenting: "Mint, they hate it, have some in the window sill."
You can pick up fresh mint from any supermarket, for example at Asda for 90p.
Mint is a natural deterrent (stock image) (Getty Images)Others suggested the social media user should try the equally pleasant-smelling basil plant, which can also be picked up at Asda for 90p, however it's currently showing as sold out. It's available on Tesco's website for £1.50.
"I read somewhere if you put a pot of fresh basil at the windows it helps. Tried it and 100% works, I just bought the 'living basil' from Asda for £1," recommended one person.
Another simply said: "Basil plant on windowsill."
Speaking to The Express, pest control expert Jordan Foster from Fantastic Pest Control, said: "Some herbs and spices, including basil, mint, rosemary, and cloves, repel flies with their strong aromas.
"Flies tend to avoid mint because of its strong scent, particularly spearmint and peppermint."