While many Brits will no doubt welcome the warm weather we're enjoying at the moment with open arms, they'll be less fond of the pests which come with it. As our homes tend to trap heat in the summer, we might find ourselves living with the windows and doors open throughout the day.
This in-turn lets flies into the house, rabidly looking for that food you left on the counter or the sugary drink in your hand. And once they've infiltrated your home, it's often difficult to get them back out.
Even worse, is that flies tend to lay eggs in the warmer months too - so if you're not careful, you could have a full-on infestation of bluebottles and fruit flies buzzing around your head for what feels like an eternity. Luckily though, there are things you can do to banish them for good.
Read more: Gardeners hail common household item for getting rid of weeds from patios and pavements
The Mirror reports that while some fly repellents stink your house out with a nasty odour, one woman claims to have discovered a natural deterrent, which will leave your home smelling minty fresh. Seeking advice for summer, one Facebook user asked on the Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips page: "Loads of flies everywhere in my house. How do I get rid? Thanks."
And while the post quickly received more than one hundred comments, the one which stood out through its simplicity and pleasant fragrance was mint. One woman said: "Fresh mint. The stuff you grow in pots. Flies and ants hate it," while another, added: "Mint, they hate it, have some in the window sill."
Cheap and cheerful, you can pick up mint from any supermarket for a reasonable price. For example, Asda sell the stuff for just 55p.
Others meanwhile suggested using basil - also a natural herb which smells pleasant - which can be picked up at retailers for a similar price. One, said: "I read somewhere if you put a pot of fresh basil at the windows it helps. Tried it and 100% works, I just bought the 'living basil' from Asda for £1."
Another, added: "Basil plant on windowsill."
Speaking to The Express, pest control expert Jordan Foster from Fantastic Pest Control, said: "Some herbs and spices, including basil, mint, rosemary, and cloves, repel flies with their strong aromas. Flies tend to avoid mint because of its strong scent, particularly spearmint and peppermint."
