Few things are as likely to elicit a shriek of disgust as the mention of maggots. The recent warm weather, coupled with humid conditions, create the perfect conditions for creepy crawlies – including flies and their loathsome larvae (I found some in our food compost bin just this week, yuck!).
Luckily, there's a natural, simple solution to banish flies, which only requires a search through your spice rack...
Cinammon and cayenne pepper
American Instagrammer @floodnerd – known for posting all manner of 'dad hacks' on social media – suggests simply sprinkling cinnamon and cayenne pepper in the bottom of your bin (outdoor or indoor compost) before pesky pests have the chance to start an infestation.
Then just insert your bin bag as normal and add fresh spices each time you change the liner.
If you're wondering what the science is behind this repelling recommendation, the video shares a few more details on this too.
It seems cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, the fiery compound in chillies, which can irritate flies’ chemical “danger” sensors on their feet, mouthparts, antennae and egg-laying organs. Rather than simply smelling bad, it signals something unpleasant or harmful, encouraging flies to avoid feeding or laying eggs nearby.
Cinnamon, on the other hand, contains cinnamaldehyde, the fragrant compound that gives the spice its distinctive smell, which can disrupt flies’ scent receptors. As flies rely on smell to find suitable places to feed and lay eggs, cinnamon can make an area seem unpleasant or unsuitable.
For another natural way to deter flies – especially around common attractions like a fruit bowl – try placing fragrant deterrents such as mint, basil, cloves, cinnamon sticks or bay leaves nearby.
A small apple cider vinegar trap (comprising a small dish of apple cider vinegar with a drop of washing-up liquid in it) placed away from the bowl can also help catch adult flies before they settle.
Natural pest repellent
