How To Get Rid Of Flies On Patio? Tips to Keep Flies Away Outside

A swarm of circling flies can quickly disrupt your plans when you are getting ready to relax on your patio. But the problem is, how to keep flies away outside?

These pesky insects can quickly ruin your outdoor experience, but fear not, as you can successfully get rid of flies on your patio in different ways.

In this article, we’ll explore some simple yet powerful techniques to keep those swarming flies away.

What Attracts Circling Flies on Patio?

If you constantly see flies on your outdoor space, they might be attracted to the following things:

1. Food Attracts Flies on Patio

Flies prefer places with food, especially sweet and sugary substances. So, they might be attracted to the food on your patio.

So, if you have any food or drinks on your patio, they can attract hovering flies. Even small food crumbs, residue, or spills on dishes and other surfaces can attract flies.

2. Flies Are Attracted to Garbage and Organic Waste

Flies will visit your patio if there’s garbage and compost. So, if you have a garbage can or compost bin on your patio, it can attract hovering flies.

Keep your garbage can tightly sealed and regularly remove compost or food waste.

3. Pet Waste Can Attract Flying Pests

Pet waste, such as dog poop or cat litter, can attract flying insects. Regularly clean up after your pets and dispose of their waste properly.

4. Standing Water on the Patio Can Serve as Breeding Site for Flying Insects

Moisture, damp areas, and standing water attract flies. So, if you have puddles or standing water in your backyard, they can attract flying insects.

5. Flies Are Attracted to Dirty Surfaces

Flies adore dirty surfaces, especially those with organic matter. So, if you have dirty dishes, unwashed surfaces, or pet bowls on your patio, flies will frequent your property.

By understanding what attracts buzzing flies on your patio, you can take steps to prevent them from coming in the first place.

Keeping your patio clean and free of food, garbage, and moisture can help deter flies and prevent them from circling you.

How to Get Rid of Circling Flies on Patio?

Swarming flies can be a major nuisance for those who love spending time on their patio. These pesky insects can quickly ruin your outdoor experience.

Luckily, you can eliminate flying pests in different ways, such as the following:

1. Maintain a Fly-Free Outdoor Space by Keeping it Clean

One of the most effective ways to eliminate annoying flies on your patio is to clean up the area.

Flies prefer places with food, garbage, and other organic matter. Therefore, keeping your patio clean and debris-free is important.

Sweep the patio regularly to remove any fallen leaves, food scraps, or other debris that may have accumulated.

Wipe outdoor furniture and surfaces with a cleaning solution containing essential oils, such as lemon or eucalyptus, as these scents can help deter flies.

2. Use Fly Traps to Catch Insects Outdoors

You can catch flying insects and prevent them from bothering you with fly traps. You can choose from several fly traps, including sticky and electric traps.

Sticky traps use a sticky surface to trap flies, while electric traps use a high-voltage grid to electrocute flies. Both traps can be effective. However, consider sticky traps if you want something quick and easy to use.

3. Plant Herbs That Repel Pests

Certain herbs, such as basil, mint, and lavender, are known to repel flies.

Planting these herbs on your patio can help deter flies from coming near. 

You can also crush the leaves of these herbs and rub them on your skin or furniture to keep flying pests away.

4. Use Essential Oils as Natural Fly Repellent

Essential oils, such as peppermint, eucalyptus, and lemongrass, repel fly. 

You can use these oils in a diffuser, mix them with water, and spray them on your patio and furniture to keep flies away.

You can also apply them as a natural insect repellent to your skin.

5. Install Screen Doors and Windows to Prevent Flies From Entering

Installing screen doors and windows can prevent flies from entering your home and patio. 

Keep these screens in good condition and repair any tears or holes to prevent flying insects from sneaking in.

6. Repel Flies and Flying Insects Outdoors with Citronella Candles

Many homeowners use citronella candles to repel flies and insects. The citronella scent is unpleasant to flies and can help keep them away from your patio.

You can use citronella oil in a diffuser or mix it with water to create a natural fly-repellent spray.

7. Keep Flies Away Outside by Using Outdoor Fans

Flies struggle to fly in strong breezes because they’re weak fliers. Using a fan on your patio can help keep the air moving and deter insects from landing and circling you.

• Portable fans are flexible. You can move them around your patio to help deter flying insects.
• Pedestal fans are versatile and adjustable; you can position them at different heights and angles to enhance their effectiveness against flying pests.
• Wall-mounted fans are fixed to the wall, saving space on your patio. If they are positioned right, they can repel flies on your patio.
• Outdoor ceiling fans can be an excellent way to reduce flies on a patio with a covered ceiling or pergola.

Depending on the size of your patio, you may need multiple fans to provide sufficient coverage to repel buzzing pests. Position them at different areas or angles to create cross-ventilation.

8. Cover Food and Drinks to Keep the Flies Away Outdoors

As mentioned, flies like sweet and sugary substances, so covering your food and drinks with a lid or mesh cover can help keep flies away. 

This also prevents crumbs or residue from attracting flies.

9. Keep Flies Away Outside by Using Vinegar

Vinegar has a strong smell that repels flies. Mix equal parts of water and vinegar in a spray bottle and spray it on your patio and furniture to deter flies. 

You can also add a few drops of essential oils to mask the vinegar smell.

10. Keep Plants Trimmed to Get Rid of Flies Outdoors

Overgrown plants and bushes can provide a breeding ground for flies. 

Keeping your plants trimmed and well-maintained can help prevent flies from nesting and reproducing.

11. Keep Flies Away by Cleaning Pet Waste Immediately

Flies love pet waste, so cleaning up after your pets is essential. Use a scooper or plastic bag to dispose of pet waste and keep it away from your patio.

12. Use a UV Light Trap to Attract and Trap Flies

UV light traps attract flies and other flying insects by emitting UV light. Once attracted to the light, they’re trapped on a sticky surface or electrocuted by a high-voltage grid.

UV light traps can be used both indoors and outdoors, making them a convenient and effective solution for getting rid of flying pests on your patio.

Final Words

With these tips and tricks, you can finally enjoy your patio without being bothered by those annoying swarming flies.

Whether you opt for natural remedies, fly traps, or cleaning up the area, there’s a solution that will work for you.

So, put on sunscreen, grab a book, and bask in the warm sun without worrying about pesky flies ruining your relaxation time.