Many homeowners experience the problem of flies on their patios. Flies are a nuisance, offering potential health hazards like itching or diseases. One reason flies get attracted to patio is the presence of food or organic matter like pet waste and compost. Aside from that, flies also like standing water and warm temperatures.
The only thing you can get rid of flies in your patios is using fly repellent. But do you know the best fly repellent for patio use?
Finding an effective fly repellent for patios is important for several reasons. First, you need it to prevent the spread of diseases and reduce the risk of illness. Secondly, you want your outdoor living spaces to be more comfortable and enjoyable for people and pets. Finally, it can also help reduce the need for pesticides and other harmful chemicals, which can negatively affect the environment and human health.
There are many options for fly repellents for patios. To help you decide, this article will lay down the best fly repellent for patio and the factors you must consider before choosing a product.
What are the types of fly repellent for patio?
Fly repellent products are typically categorized into two. The first is natural fly repellents, and the second is chemical fly repellents.
Natural Fly Repellents
These natural fly repellents are made from organic ingredients and have proven to be safe for humans, pets, and plants. Some natural fly repellents include the following.
- Essential oils (eucalyptus, lavender, and peppermint). You can use it through a diffuser or mixed with water to create a spray.
- Herbs and plants (basil, rosemary, and marigolds). You can plant these herbs around the patio, in pots, or in hanging baskets.
- Vinegar and dish soap. This is the famous mixture of vinegar and dish soap that can be used to trap and kill flies. The vinegar lures and attracts flies, and the dish soap makes it difficult for them to escape.
Chemical Fly Repellents
This is contrary to natural fly repellents. These fly repellents contain chemical or active ingredients that may be harmful to humans, pets, and plants. Some chemical fly repellents include the following.
- Sprays. These are also known as insecticide sprays and can be applied directly to surfaces or used in a fogger or sprayer.
- Candles and torches. These are specially made candles and torches that contain citronella or other repellent oils that can help to keep flies away from the patio. They create a barrier of scent that the flies don’t like.
- Electronic traps. Electronic traps use light and/or bait to attract flies, trapped and killed. They can be used indoors or outdoors and are often powered by batteries or electricity.
What are the factors to consider when choosing a fly repellent for patio?
To find the best fly repellent for your patio, consider different factors, including the following.
a. Effectiveness
Effectiveness is the most important and first factor to look at when choosing the best fly repellent for the patio. How effective is the product? Some repellents may work better than others, depending on the type and severity of the fly problem. The best way to know whether a product is effective is through the reviews of other customers.
b. Safety
This is the second most important factor because you do not want to put your health at risk, your pets, and your animals just to get rid of flies. It’sChoosing a fly repellent that is safe for humans and pets is important. Some repellents may contain harmful chemicals that can be toxic if ingested or inhaled. To avoid such unfortunate situations, you must look for repellents labeled as safe for outdoor use and follow the instructions carefully.
c. Ease of use
You do not want to choose a product or fly repellent that’s too complicated to apply. The best fly repellent for patio should be easy to prepare, use, and apply. For example, sprays and traps should be easy to set up and operate, and candles or torches should be easy to light.
d. Price
Of course, the budget should also be taken into account. Some natural remedies may be less expensive than commercial products, but they may not be as effective. Look for a repellent that fits your budget and provides good value for money.
e. Environmental impact
Some fly repellents may negatively affect the environment, such as polluting the air or water. If you care for the environment, always look for eco-friendly products that do not contain harmful chemicals or ingredients. Natural remedies such as herbs and plants may be a more sustainable option.
What’s the best fly repellent for patio?
So now that you know the different factors to consider, here are some of the best fly repellent for patio that you can try.
1. Sawyer Products Picaridin Insect Repellent
One of the most promising and effective pest toxins today is Picardin, which you can find on this Sawyer Insect Repellent. Picaridin is a synthetic compound modeled after a natural compound found in black pepper plants. It is effective against various insects, including mosquitoes, ticks, flies, and gnats.
This product comes in different formulations, such as
- Sprays
- Lotions
- Wipes
Another good thing about this product is that it’s non-toxic and does not contain DEET, which is a chemical that is found in many insect repellents but can be harmful if used improperly. Overall, we can say that Sawyer is a reliable and economizing fly repellent for patio that you can use.
2. Ultrathon Insect Repellent Lotion
This is another product effective in getting rid of flies. The active ingredient of this is DEET. DEET is a chemical that is known for its effectiveness against a wide range of insects, including mosquitoes, ticks, flies, and gnats. However, you must use it properly to avoid harmful effects.
One of the benefits of Ultrathon Insect Repellent Lotion is its long-lasting protection, which makes it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and spending time on a patio. The only disadvantage of this product is that it has a synthetic odor. But when it comes to reliability, you can never go wrong with Ultrathon.
3. Absorbine UltraShield Fly Spray
This spray type of fly repellent is a popular product designed to protect horses and their surroundings from flies, mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects. However, it can also be used on dogs and other animals, and in some cases, it can be used as a patio fly repellent.
It has active ingredients of permethrin, pyrethrins, and cypermethrin, all synthetic chemicals effective against a wide range of insects. The spray is easy to apply, and you can use it on surfaces like walls, stalls, fences, and animals.
The spray is designed to provide up to 17 days of protection against flies, mosquitoes, and ticks and up to 14 days against stable flies and horse flies.
However, remember that Absorbine UltraShield Fly Spray is a chemical insecticide that can be harmful if used improperly. It’s important to follow the instructions carefully and avoid inhaling the spray or getting it on the skin or the eyes.
The best fly repellent for patio is effective, safe, and affordable!
Remember that there are lots of fly repellent products in the market today. However, not all make the best fly repellent for patio, especially if you care for yourself, your family, pets, and plants. You want something effective but also harmless and affordable.
And to find the best product, you must learn to consider the factors we’ve discussed before purchasing anything. But if you want to search no more, then you can refer to our recommended products above. All the mentioned fly repellent products here are effective. The only thing you need to consider is the ingredients and the cost.
We encourage you to eliminate the flies quickly to achieve a pleasant and safe patio for you and your family.