Flies

Flies are one of the most common household pests in the United States, known for their ability to spread bacteria and contaminate food. From house flies to fruit flies, these insects can quickly become a nuisance indoors and around garbage or food sources. This guide provides effective tips to eliminate flies and prevent future infestations, helping you maintain a cleaner, healthier home.

 
Common Fly Species

Here are some of the most common fly species found across households in the United States.

Species List
  • Blow Fly
    Blow Fly
  • Bottle Fly
    Bottle Fly
  • Cluster Fly
    Cluster Fly
  • Crane Fly
    Crane Fly
  • Drain Fly
    Drain Fly
  • Face Fly
    Face Fly
  • Flesh Fly
    Flesh Fly
  • Fruit Fly
    Fruit Fly
  • Horse Fly
    Horse Fly
  • House Fly
    House Fly
  • Silverleaf Fly
    Silverleaf Fly
  • Sphaerocerid Fly
    Sphaerocerid Fly
 
How to identify Flies

Antennae: Short and stubby, though some species (like fruit flies) may have slightly longer antennae.

Size: Typically 1/8 inch to 1/2 inch in length, depending on the species.

Body Shape: Small to medium-sized with a rounded or elongated body and a noticeable head.

Color: Often gray, black, or brown; some species, like fruit flies, have reddish or tan tones.

Wings: One pair of clear wings used for flying, with exceptional maneuverability.

Eyes: Large, prominent, compound eyes often covering most of their head.

Blow Fly Model

You can use the following model to help you identify a blow fly .

Blow Fly
 
Dangers Flies Pose

Here are some of the dangers fly infestations can pose.

Dangers and Hazards

Different species of flies may pose one or many of the following hazards:

  • Disease
    Disease
  • Bites
    Bites
  • Pet Risks
    Pet Risks
  • Allergic Reactions
    Allergic Reactions
  • Food Contamination
    Food Contamination
 
How to Get Rid of Flies

Apply any of the following treatment steps that are relevant to your fly issues.

Treatment Steps
  • Seal Gaps
    Seal Gaps

    Seal gaps and cracks around doors, windows, and other entry points to prevent flies from entering your home. Use weatherstripping for doors and silicone caulk for small cracks. Ensure that screens on windows and doors are intact to block flying pests.

  • Clean Surfaces
    Clean Surfaces

     Flies are attracted to food and debris, so keep surfaces clean by wiping down countertops, tables, and other frequently used areas. Regular cleaning helps remove any food particles that may attract flies into your home.

  • Dispose of Trash and Food
    Dispose of Trash and Food

    Dispose of trash regularly, and make sure food waste is sealed in trash bags or bins. Flies are drawn to decaying food, so eliminating food waste will make your home less attractive to them.

  • Remove Standing Water
    Remove Standing Water

    Flies, especially drain flies and fruit flies, are attracted to standing water. Fix leaks and remove stagnant water in sinks, bathtubs, and drains to reduce the places where flies can breed.

  • Treat Problem Areas Inside
    Treat Problem Areas Inside

     Treat areas inside the home where flies are most active, such as kitchens, trash areas, or near entry points. Using NatureTek products in these areas will help reduce fly activity and prevent future infestations.

 
FAQ

Get more information about flies here.

  • Why do fly infestations happen?

    Fly infestations occur when flies are attracted to food, waste, or moist environments inside the home. Poor sanitation, unsealed food, and standing water provide ideal conditions for flies to breed and thrive.

  • Are flies dangerous?

    Flies are not directly harmful, but they can carry bacteria and diseases due to their contact with decaying matter and waste. This can lead to contamination of food or surfaces in your home.

  • Do flies bite?

    Most flies do not bite. However, some species, like the biting stable fly, can bite and cause irritation. Common house flies do not bite humans but can transmit bacteria.

  • How can I prevent future fly issues?

    Seal cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and entry points. Keep surfaces clean, dispose of trash regularly, and remove standing water. NatureTek treatments help reduce fly activity and prevent infestations by creating a barrier around your home.

  • Does NatureTek work on flies?

    Yes, NatureTek is effective in reducing fly activity. It creates a protective barrier around your home that helps prevent flies from entering and reduces their presence inside, offering long-term protection against future fly infestations.

 
Best Product for Flies

The best product for solving fly issues is the NatureTek Pro Kit. The products included in that treatment have the residual and transfer effects necessary for long-term control of flies.

NatureTek Pro Kit

Safe, Effective, Affordable, & No-Commitment