Sasha CampbellSand flies, often found in sandy and marshy areas, can be a real nuisance. They are tiny, but their bites can be irritating.
Fortunately, there are several natural methods to manage and reduce their presence. In this article, we will explore ways to control sand flies using natural solutions.
Identification
Sand flies are small flying insects that bite. Some people incorrectly refer to them as biting midges, and they are particularly active during dusk and at night.
Their bites can cause itching and swelling, and in some cases, transmit diseases such as leishmaniasis [1]. Understanding sand flies’ behavior is crucial to effectively managing them.
Signs of a sand fly infestation include frequent and itchy bites that may turn into skin sores. You may also notice these tiny flying insects around sandy or damp areas, like beaches and mangroves.
How to Get Rid of Sand Flies Naturally
Below are some home remedies and natural solutions to help control sand flies, both inside and outside your home.
1. Vacuuming
One of the first steps in controlling sand flies indoors is to vacuum regularly.
Vacuuming carpets and the corners and crevices of your house can help remove eggs and larvae. Make sure to dispose of the vacuum bag immediately.
2. Steam Cleaning
Steam cleaning is another effective method. The heat from the steam can kill sand fly eggs and larvae that are hiding in carpets, upholstery, or other fabrics.
Regular steam cleaning of affected areas can help reduce the sand fly population.
3. Natural Predators
Encouraging natural predators is also a great way to manage sand flies. Birds, ants, and some creatures, such as spiders, feed on sand flies and their larvae [2].
Creating a welcoming environment for these predators can help keep sand fly numbers in check.
4. Neem Oil
Neem oil is a natural insect repellent that can be effective against sand flies. Its strong scent and properties repel insects.
To use neem oil for sand flies, we’re going to use the same recipe that we use for repelling mosquitoes.
Just mix one part cold-pressed neem oil with 10 parts water and apply it to exposed skin before going outside. You can also mix neem oil with coconut oil (in a 1:2 ratio) and use it on your skin.
These solutions will protect you from sand fly bites.
5. Citrus Juice
Citrus juice, especially lemon and lime, has a strong scent that sand flies also find unpleasant.
Therefore, you can use citrus juice as a DIY repellent by mixing it with water and spraying it in areas where sand flies are a problem.
6. Lavender Oil
Lavender oil is known for its calming fragrance, but it also acts as a natural deterrent for sand flies.
Just mix lavender oil with witch hazel (1:10 ratio) and spray it on your clothes.
7. Seal Cracks and Gaps
Sand flies can enter your home through cracks and gaps in doors, windows, and walls. They will also breed in any cracks or gaps that they find.
Therefore, walk around and look for these openings and seal them.
8. Have Screens on Your Windows
Installing screens on windows and doors is a simple but effective way to keep sand flies and other flying insects out.
Ensure the screens are free of holes and properly fitted to prevent these insects from entering.
9. Trim Your Grass Regularly and Get Rid of Weeds
Sand flies thrive in cool, moist areas.
Keeping your lawn well-trimmed and removing weeds from your yard and garden can reduce the places where sand flies might hide.
Doing so also helps reduce moisture, which is another factor that attracts sandflies.
10. Get a Flyswatter
For immediate relief, a flyswatter can be a handy tool to get rid of sand flies you see around. It’s a simple and effective way to manage a small number of sand flies inside your home.
11. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil can be used as an insect repellent for these pests, especially when going out in open areas such as the beach, where sand flies may be present.
Apply this sandfly-repellent home remedy to exposed skin, like a lotion.
12. Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil is another essential oil that works well against sand flies.
You will use it just the same as you would lavender oil. Combine eucalyptus oil with witch hazel (1:10 ratio) and spray it on your clothes.
13. Orange Peel
Orange peel contains natural oils that sand flies find unpleasant. You can place orange peels in areas where sand flies are a problem.
You can also use them to make a homemade spray by boiling some peels in a cup of water on low heat for about 10 minutes. Use the solution to mist problem areas around the home and anywhere you are sitting outside.
14. Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is deadly to insects with exoskeletons. Therefore, sprinkle it on sand or soil that is infested with sand flies. It will deter them.
It works by dehydrating the insects when they encounter it.
15. Vinegar
You can also use vinegar to repel sand flies.
Just put one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar into a glass of water and drink it. When you sweat, the smell will deter sand flies and mosquitoes from approaching.
You can also mix one tablespoon of white vinegar with a quarter cup of water and use it on your skin as a homemade sandfly repellent spray.
16. Wear Protective Clothing
Wearing long sleeves, pants, and socks can reduce your exposure to sandfly bites. Light-colored clothing is also less attractive to sandflies than dark colors.
Takeaway
Some other names sandflies go by include sand gnats, punkies, or no-see-ums.
However, by using these natural methods, you can effectively manage and reduce sand fly populations in and around your home. Consistent application of these techniques will help you enjoy a more comfortable environment.
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