The Fastest Way to Get Rid of Flies Outside: 6 Proven Outdoor Fly Control Methods

Few things ruin outdoor time faster than a swarm of flies buzzing around your food, face, and drinks. Whether you're hosting a BBQ, enjoying a peaceful evening on your porch, or just want your backyard to be fly-free, you need solutions that work — fast. Let’s dive into the fastest ways to get rid of flies outside and keep them from coming back.

Use Effective Fly Traps to Cut Down the Swarm

One of the most reliable ways to tackle flies outdoors is to set up fly traps in high-traffic fly zones. You can choose commercial fly traps that use food-based attractants or DIY traps using ingredients like apple cider vinegar, wine, or rotting fruit. Add a drop of dish soap to break surface tension and make it harder for flies to escape.

Want to get creative? Fill a plastic bottle with vinegar and sugar, then flip the top to form a funnel — flies go in and don’t come out. It’s cheap, easy, and surprisingly effective.

Install a Bug Zapper for Constant Control

If you're looking for a hands-free, ongoing solution, a UV light bug zapper can help. These devices attract flying insects with UV light and kill them with a mild electric shock. Place them away from your gathering areas (flies are drawn to the light, not your guests). Modern LED bug zappers are safer, energy-efficient, and perfect for backyards and patios.

Hang Sticky Fly Paper Near Hotspots

Good old-fashioned fly paper still works. Hang sticky strips around garbage bins, compost piles, or garden areas. Some versions are scented to attract flies, while others can be coated with homemade solutions like corn syrup and essential oils. Make sure to replace them regularly for best results.

Apply Natural or Commercial Fly Repellents

For personal protection or to treat specific outdoor areas, natural fly repellents using essential oils like clove, basil, citronella, or lemongrass are excellent options. Mix with water or vodka in a spray bottle and apply around seating areas, doors, or food zones. Alternatively, use skin-safe repellents when spending long hours outside.

Eliminate Breeding Grounds Like Standing Water and Trash

Flies love moisture and decay. Check for standing water in buckets, gutters, birdbaths, and under potted plants. Remove pet waste, clean trash bins, and secure garbage bags tightly. Clear out compost piles and overripe fruits that attract fruit flies and house flies alike.

Block Fly Entry Points to Prevent Future Infestations

Even if you're handling flies outdoors, some of them are bound to try getting inside. Fix torn screens, seal gaps in windows or doors, and keep kitchen counters and drains clean. This is especially important in late summer when fly populations are highest and they seek indoor shelter.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What smell will keep flies away outside?
Strong scents like clove, citronella, eucalyptus, and basil are known to repel flies. You can use essential oils or grow these plants in your yard.

2. What causes a sudden fly infestation outside?
Warm weather, open trash bins, compost piles, pet waste, and standing water are common triggers for sudden outdoor fly infestations.

3. Do vinegar traps really work for flies?
Yes. Vinegar traps (especially with apple cider vinegar) are very effective, especially when mixed with a bit of dish soap to trap and drown flies.