5 Ugly Truths About DIY Fly Control Methods

During the warmer months of December to March, flies become a major menace to many South African households. Often, the first reaction after spotting a few too many flies hanging around, is to try get rid of them through DIY fly control methods. Fly strips, fly zappers, homemade fly repellents, bug spray and even bags of water are used to stave away these filthiest of pests. If this is your go-to strategy when dealing with a fly problem, you might want to think again. Here are just five ugly, but honest facts about the disadvantages of do-it-yourself fly control methods that will make professional pest control services seem like a more viable option.

1. They’re Expensive

A trip to the store to purchase a fly trap or fly repellent may seem less expensive than hiring a pest control company. However, one purchase is often not enough to keep flies away for very long. As you continue to buy in-store fly control products, the costs add up and can very quickly outweigh the initial investment in pest control services.

2. They Can Get Messy

One of the more popular over-the-counter fly control methods includes disposable fly bait bags. While these have been proven effective at catching flies in great numbers, they can become very smelly and are messy to replace. Likewise, fly strips are unsightly and loaded with harmful chemicals, which brings us to the next point.

3. They’re Not Safe

Most store-bought fly control products contain strong chemicals. Although professional pest control providers will also use chemicals when getting rid of flies, they are most likely certified and trained in the proper handling and application of these chemicals. Working with harmful chemicals that you aren’t knowledgeable about can be risky and, if used incorrectly, they can inadvertently cause harm to humans, pets or plants.

4. They Don’t Work

For small pest problems, an off-the-shelf fly repellant might be enough. For a bigger infestation, however, they more often than not prove to be as ineffective as an umbrella during a hurricane. In most cases, homeowners don’t know they have infestation until it’s too late – making any attempts at DIY pest control fruitless.

5. They Don’t Control the Problem

You see a fly, you swat or spray it. Fly strips and bait bags attract flies to a certain area. Most DIY fly control methods only deal with killing the adult flies that you can see, but do necessarily kill its eggs or larvae, essentially allowing the cycle of flies to continue. Unless you address the underlying problem, you can almost guarantee that the flies will keep on coming back for more. Some things are best left to the professionals… A professional pest control company, on the other hand, have the expertise to inspect, identify and effectively treat fly infestations quickly, and can also advise you on the right prevention methods that will keep flies away for longer. For a professional fly control quote, contact The Specialists or click here to learn more about our services.