Get Rid Of Flies Naturally With Homemade Flypaper

Make sure to like Living Green and Frugally on Facebook, Shop at Amazon to help support my site and explore our PINTEREST BOARDS  for innovative ways you can become self-sufficient.

Having flies in the warmer months is a constant battle. No matter what kind of fly you have-be it fruit flies, house flies, they make their surroundings seem unclean and unpleasant. They buzz around your head, knock against windows, march all over your food, and land repeatedly in the same place after being shooed away.

Flies can be a nuisance, especially during the warmer months when they seem to invade our homes and outdoor spaces. While there are many commercial fly traps available, making your own sticky fly paper is an effective and eco-friendly solution that can save you money. Here’s a guide on how to get rid of flies with homemade sticky fly paper.

Why Choose Homemade Sticky Fly Paper?

Homemade sticky fly paper is a cost-effective and non-toxic alternative to store-bought fly traps. It utilizes simple ingredients that are safe for both humans and pets. Additionally, making your own fly paper allows you to customize the size and shape to fit your specific needs.

Materials Needed

To create your own sticky fly paper, you will need the following materials:

• Brown paper or card stock
• Scissors
• Hole punch
• String or thread
• Corn syrup or honey
• Water
• Sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cut the Paper
   • Start by cutting the brown paper or card stock into strips. Each strip should be about 2-3 inches wide and 6-8 inches long. Adjust the size based on where you plan to hang them.
2. Punch Holes
   • Use the hole punch to create a small hole at one end of each strip. This hole will be used to hang the fly paper.
3. Prepare the Sticky Solution
   • In a saucepan, mix equal parts corn syrup (or honey) and water. For example, mix 1 cup of corn syrup with 1 cup of water. Add 2-3 tablespoons of sugar to the mixture and heat it over low heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved.
4. Coat the Strips
   • Once the sticky solution is ready, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly. Dip each paper strip into the solution, making sure it is thoroughly coated. Alternatively, you can use a brush to apply the mixture evenly on both sides of the strips.
5. Let Them Dry
   • Hang the coated strips over a sink or outside to allow excess solution to drip off. Let them dry completely. This can take a few hours, depending on the humidity and temperature.
6. Hang the Fly Paper
   • Once the strips are dry and sticky, thread a piece of string or thread through the hole you punched earlier. Hang the fly paper in areas where flies are most problematic, such as near windows, doors, or garbage cans.

Tips for Success

• Placement: Hang the fly paper in areas where flies are frequently seen. Higher traffic areas will yield better results.
• Regular Replacement: Replace the fly paper once it becomes covered in flies or loses its stickiness.
• Keep It Clean: Ensure the area around the fly paper is clean and free of other attractants that could compete with your trap.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Adam M. Gustavson (@gustavsonadam)

Benefits of Homemade Sticky Fly Paper

• Eco-Friendly: By using natural ingredients, you avoid the harsh chemicals found in many commercial fly traps.
• Cost-Effective: Most of the ingredients needed are already in your kitchen, making this a budget-friendly option.
• Customizable: You can tailor the size and shape of the fly paper to suit your needs, making it more versatile than store-bought options.

Conclusion

Creating your own sticky fly paper is a simple, effective way to control the fly population in and around your home. With just a few household ingredients and a bit of time, you can make an eco-friendly fly trap that keeps these pests at bay. Enjoy a fly-free environment without the need for harmful chemicals or expensive products.