Flies and cockroaches are not only annoying, but they can also pose a health risk, as they carry bacteria, viruses, and germs on their paws and bodies. Their presence in the kitchen or bathroom is a sign that we need to act immediately.
Fortunately, there are simple, inexpensive, at-home methods that can help you keep these insects away without resorting to harsh chemicals. One of the most effective is a homemade trick that, in just one hour, begins to show amazing results.
Trick to eliminate flies and cockroaches
With this homemade trick and some good habits, you can keep your home free of insects naturally, without resorting to dangerous pesticides or expensive products.
What will you need?
To prepare this homemade trap, only easy-to-get items are required:
- Apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar
- Liquid dishwashing detergent
- A crystal bowl
- Plastic wrap (cling film)
- A toothpick
Step-by-step procedure
- Pour in the vinegar: Place 2 to 3 cm of apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar in the bottom of the glass bowl. Both types of vinegar have a strong, sweet aroma that especially attracts flies.
- Add the detergent: Add a few drops of dish soap to the vinegar and stir gently until dissolved. The detergent breaks the surface tension of the liquid, causing the insects to sink and be unable to escape.
- Cover the bowl: Place the plastic wrap over the top of the container, making sure it is tightly sealed at the edges.
- Make small holes: Use the toothpick to poke several holes in the wrapper. These will allow insects to enter, but will make it difficult for them to escape.
- Strategic location: Leave the container overnight in places where you’ve seen flies or cockroaches, such as near the trash can, in the kitchen, or under the sink. The darkness and nighttime humidity attract them even more.
- Result upon waking: The next morning, you will find several trapped and lifeless insects at the bottom of the container.
Other Effective Homemade Traps
- Sugar and baking soda trap for cockroaches: Mix equal parts of sugar and baking soda. The sugar attracts them and the baking soda reacts in their stomach causing their death. Sprinkle the mixture on the areas where they usually appear.
- Bags of water and coins: Hang clear bags of water and some coins inside near windows or doors. The reflected light confuses flies and prevents them from entering.
- Citrus peels with cloves: Insert cloves into lemon or orange halves. This combination acts as a natural repellent for flies and mosquitoes.
- White vinegar and bay leaf spray: Mix water, white vinegar, and crushed bay leaves in a spray bottle. Spray in dark corners or damp areas to repel cockroaches.
Additional Tips to Keep Your Home Insect-Free
- Keep it clean: Don’t leave leftover food, dirty dishes, or crumbs on the counter. Cockroaches and flies are attracted to this waste.
- Seal cracks and cracks: Check door, window, and baseboard frames. Many cockroaches hide in these places during the day.
- Take out the trash frequently: Use bins with a tight-fitting lid and empty them daily.
- Ventilate the environments: Humidity favors the appearance of these insects. Open windows and keep spaces dry.