How To Get Rid Of Flies Aways From Your Patio

by Adam Chi

There is nothing more relaxing than sitting outside on your patio and unwinding after a long, hard day. The soft calls of nature and the cool wind calm you down and rejuvenate you. But sometimes, bugs, flies, mosquitoes, and other pests can make your outdoor spaces unbearable. Sometimes, you are even forced to retreat behind closed doors. 

This begs the question: how to keep bugs away from the patio? If you want your outdoor oasis to be devoid of any creepy crawlies or insects, then you need to take certain measures to keep your patio bug-free. 

16 Ways to Keep Flies Away From The Patio

We list down some helpful tips shedding light on how to keep flies away from the patio. Your path to outdoor bliss starts with the following hacks.  

  1. Frequent Cleaning for a Bug-Free Haven 

If you love entertaining guests, your patio might be frequently used for dinner parties and cozy get-togethers. This might subject your patio to food crumbs and spills commonly, drawing insects like ants to a picnic. Regular cleaning is your first line of defense. Sweep away food scraps, wipe up spills, and keep the area clutter-free. A clean patio not only keeps bugs away from the patio but also maintains the integrity of your outdoor furniture.

  1. Drain Standing Water to Bid Adieu to Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes thrive in standing water. Empty out watering cans, birdbaths, and any containers that can hold rainwater. By removing these potential breeding grounds, you significantly reduce the mosquito population around your patio, ensuring a more pleasant outdoor experience.

  1. Strategic Lighting to Keep Bugs at Bay 

The right lighting can make or break your bug-free patio dream. White lights tend to attract insects. So, swap out those bright white lights for warmer-toned options emitting longer wavelengths. This simple adjustment will go a long way in making your patio less appealing to bugs when the sun sets.

  1. Citronella Magic: Candles, Torches, and More 

Citronella, a natural insect repellent, can be your patio's best friend. One of the best ways to keep bugs away from the patio is to light up citronella candles or torches to create a pest-free zone. The pleasant aroma masks scents that attract insects, providing a chemical-free solution to keep mosquitoes and other pests at bay.

  1. Essential Oils: Nature's Bug Repellent 

Essential oils offer a safe and natural alternative to chemical insect repellents. Mix oils like citronella, peppermint, tea tree, lavender, and eucalyptus in a spray bottle to keep bugs away from the patio. Not only do these oils act as a natural bug repellant, but they also contribute to a calming aromatherapy experience.

  1. Pest-Deterrent Plants, Flowers, and Herbs

When choosing plants for your patio area, go with options that repel bugs naturally. For example, basil deters flies, chrysanthemums keep ants at bay, lavender discourages moths, and mosquitoes steer clear of rosemary and geranium. Strategically place these plants that keep bugs away among your patio furniture and create a natural bug-repelling barrier around your outdoor seating area. Enjoy an evening amidst sweet-smelling herbs without being attacked by mosquitoes. 

  1. Spray Mint-Flavored Mouthwash

Mint-flavored mouthwash isn't just for fresh breath; it's also a bug repellent. Fill a spray bottle with mouthwash and apply it to your patio and deck surfaces. This minty solution provides a natural barrier against insects without the need for harmful chemicals.

  1. Try Hydrogen Peroxide

One of the best ways to keep bugs away from the patio is by using hydrogen peroxide. Spray it on your patio furniture and outdoor plants to repel adult bugs and eliminate insect eggs before they hatch. This cost-effective solution is a quick fix for a bug-free patio.

  1. Invest in Patio Fans

Install a patio fan to keep bugs at bay while enjoying a cool breeze during hot summer days. A well-placed fan not only prevents insects from bothering you but also adds comfort to your outdoor living space.

  1. Say No to Mulching 

Mulch might look aesthetically pleasing, but it provides a hiding place and breeding ground for insects. Explore alternative landscaping options that enhance the beauty of your outdoor space without attracting bugs.

  1. Keep Your Yard Trimmed to Avoid Ticks

If you want to maintain a clean yard devoid of ticks, cutting the grass is crucial. Ticks find an ideal palace to hide in tall grass, so keep your yard trimmed to protect your family, including your furry friends. An unkempt yard can attract ticks, posing health risks to both humans and pets. Regular lawn maintenance is a simple yet effective way to keep ticks at bay.

  1. Light-Coloured Exteriors

Consider painting your home in light colors to deter flying insects. Darker shades, especially black, attract mosquitoes. While you don't need to repaint your entire house, focusing on trim, window seals, and doors can make a significant difference.

  1. Clean Your Gutters for a Bug-Free Living 

Clogged gutters can become a breeding ground for insects, especially mosquitoes. Regularly clear out leaves and debris to prevent bug infestations and maintain a healthier home environment.

  1. Patio Enclosures: Creating Bug-Free Havens 

Build a barrier between you and bugs by enclosing your patio. Transform your outdoor space into a bug-free haven with a beautiful patio enclosure, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors throughout the year.

  1. Dryer Sheets to Avoid Bugs and Static  

Don't underestimate the power of dryer sheets. Rub them on your patio furniture and clothes to repel bugs while keeping static electricity in check. It is a simple yet effective bug-prevention hack.

  1. Bug Traps and Zappers: Stylish Solutions 

If bugs persist, consider bug traps or zappers for your outdoor space. Modern designs blend seamlessly with your patio decor, providing an effective and stylish solution to keep bugs at bay, especially at night.

Following these hacks should be enough to keep bugs away from the patio. This comprehensive list will allow you to indulge in some outdoor bliss without worrying about flies and insects. 


Plants That Keep Bugs Away

Be careful about the plants you keep on your patio. Certain plants and herbs are nature’s bug repellents. They keep insects, flies, and mosquitoes away and make your outdoor spaces all the more welcoming. 

Some of the common patio plants that keep bugs away are: 

  • Basil: Keeps flies, beetles, and insects away. This medicinal herb can also be used to treat mosquito bites. 
  • Lavender: Its sweet fragrance acts as a deterrent to mosquitoes, flies, moths, fleas, and other insects. You may also apply lavender essential oil to the skin as a natural repellent. 
  • Rosemary: It keeps bugs and mosquitoes at a distance. This popular cooking herb is vastly effective in keeping unwanted pests away. 
  • Mint: Its aromatic scent repels mosquitoes. Place mint containers strategically to keep your patio bug-free. 
  • Chrysanthemums: This beautiful flowering plant repels beetles, bugs, ants, fleas, ticks, and more such pests. Add this to your patio garden and enjoy an insect-free zone. 

What Colour Light Keeps Bugs Away

Bugs and flies are attracted to white incandescent lights as they do not emit much amount of heat. So, using LED bulbs with warmer tones is a neat trick to keep bugs away from your patio. 

Install yellow-hued bulbs in your outdoor area as they emit more heat, keeping the insects and flies away. 

FAQs on How to Keep Bugs Away from Patio

i) How to keep mosquitoes away while sitting outside?

To keep mosquitoes at bay while enjoying your outdoor space, try using citronella candles or torches. These emit a scent that repels mosquitoes. Additionally, consider applying insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and installing a mosquito net around your seating area for added protection.

ii) Do dryer sheets repel mosquitoes? 

Yes, dryer sheets can help repel mosquitoes. Rubbing them on your skin or clothes creates a barrier that mosquitoes find unpleasant. The sheets emit a scent that deters these pesky insects, providing a simple and effective way to stay mosquito-free outdoors.

iii) How to keep bugs away from porch lights?

Opt for warmer-toned lights on your porch, as they are less attractive to bugs. Consider using yellow bug lights, which are designed to minimize insect attraction. Additionally, regularly clean the area around the light to remove any enticing debris that might attract bugs.


Final Thoughts

Creating a bug-free patio is not an impossible feat. From natural remedies such as essential oils and plants that keep bugs away to using modern technology like dryer sheets and bug zappers, there is a wide range of effective solutions available for a patio enthusiast. 

With no longer having to worry about bugs and insects ruining your outdoor haven, you can now go ahead and buy the furniture you like the most to convert your patio into a blissful retreat. From fire pit tables to outdoor lounge chairs, find the most comfy and cozy patio furniture at Shop4Patio.


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