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* **Herbs**: Basil, lavender, mint, and rosemary not only look great in pots but also keep flies away.
* **Essential oils**: Mix a few drops of eucalyptus, peppermint, or citronella oil with water in a spray bottle and spritz around seating areas.
## 3. **Make a DIY Fly Trap**
If flies are already buzzing around, lure them away with a homemade trap:
### What You’ll Need:
* A mason jar
* Apple cider vinegar
* Dish soap
* Plastic wrap and a rubber band (optional)
### Directions:
1. Pour apple cider vinegar into the jar and add a few drops of dish soap (it breaks the surface tension so flies sink).
2. Cover the jar with plastic wrap, secure it with a rubber band, and poke small holes in the top.
3. Place the jar near problem areas. Flies will enter and won’t be able to escape.
## 4. **Keep Food Covered**
When dining outdoors, always keep food covered with mesh food tents or lids. Not only does this protect your meals, but it also keeps flies from landing and laying eggs on food surfaces.
## 5. **Use Fans Strategically**
Flies are weak fliers, so a gentle breeze can be your best defense. Place a **box fan or ceiling fan** near your outdoor dining area. It keeps the air moving—and the flies away.
## 6. **Hang Fly-Repelling Decorations**
Some decorations double as fly deterrents:
* **Clove-studded lemons**: Cut lemons in half and insert whole cloves. Place them around the table.
* **DIY fly-repellent ribbons**: Soak ribbons in a mix of eucalyptus oil and water and hang them where flies gather.
## 7. **Consider Yellow Lighting**
Standard white outdoor lights attract bugs, including flies. Switch to **yellow “bug lights”**—they’re less attractive to insects and make your space more fly-free at night.
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### Final Thoughts
With a little effort and a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy your summer outdoors without constantly swatting flies. By combining cleanliness, natural repellents, and a few clever DIY tricks, your outdoor space can stay serene, stylish, and most importantly—**fly-free**.
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