Flies can be a significant nuisance, particularly during warmer months when their numbers peak. While traditional methods like sprays and traps are effective, many people are exploring more natural and cost-efficient solutions. One of the most intriguing remedies that has gained popularity is the use of pennies. You may wonder, “How do pennies get rid of flies?” In this article, we’ll explore the science behind this phenomenon, the methods of implementation, and alternatives that may enhance its effectiveness.
The Science Behind Pennies and Flies
To understand how pennies can potentially deter flies, we first need to delve into the sensory systems of these pesky insects. Flies rely heavily on their sense of sight, particularly in their perception of motion and color. The idea is that reflective surfaces can confuse flies, making areas less attractive to them. So, how do pennies play into this?
Traditional copper pennies, especially those minted before 1982, are made of 95% copper and 5% zinc. When placed under sunlight or strong indoor lighting, the shiny surface of these coins produces reflective glimmers, which may disorient flies. Additionally, there is a form of energy known as electromagnetic radiation that can affect insect behavior. Copper is known to have some electromagnetic properties that might contribute to the repulsion of certain types of insects.
Moreover, many flies are unaccustomed to sudden changes in their environment, like unexpected reflections and dazzling lights. The idea is a simple yet innovative approach to leveraging the unique properties of pennies to create an environment that flies find less appealing.
How to Use Pennies to Deter Flies
If you’re curious about putting this penny method to the test, here are some popular ways to implement it effectively.
Penny Water Trap Method
One of the most common and straightforward methods involves creating a water trap with pennies. Here’s how you can do it:
- Materials Needed: Fill a clear, transparent container (like a glass or jar) with water.
- Add Pennies: Drop 5 to 10 shiny pennies into the water. Ensure they are clean for maximum reflectivity.
Place this setup near areas where flies are commonly seen, such as near garbage cans, food preparation areas, or entry points. The sunlight reflecting off the surface of the water and the pennies can create a confusing light effect for the flies.
Penny-Decorated Surroundings
Another method is decorating your outdoor or indoor spaces with pennies. Here’s a practical guide:
- Make Reflective Arrangements: Hang netting or transparent bags filled with water and pennies around doors or areas where flies pause.
- Penny String Decorations: String some pennies together and hang them up at entry points or around your patio. The movement and glimmer can effectively disrupt fly activity.
Enhancing the Effectiveness of Pennies
While using pennies can be beneficial, combining them with other natural remedies or tactics may enhance their effectiveness. Here are some compelling options:
Natural Repellents
Utilizing natural insect repellents can complement the disorienting properties of pennies:
- Essential Oils: Oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, and lavender are known to repel flies naturally. Mix these oils with water in a spray bottle and use it alongside your penny setups for added protection.
- Herbs: Planting herbs like basil, mint, or bay leaves around your home can also deter flies due to their strong scents.
Keeping Areas Clean
While pennies can create confusion, maintaining cleanliness in your environment is crucial:
- Proper Waste Management: Regularly cleaning garbage bins and removing organic waste can drastically reduce the presence of flies.
- Cover Food: Always cover food items, whether outside during a picnic or indoors in the kitchen, to eliminate attractants.
When to Consider Other Methods
While the penny method is an innovative and low-cost option for managing fly populations, there are times when you may need to consider alternative strategies.
Other Non-Toxic Methods
If you find that the penny method is not sufficiently effective, there are several more non-toxic methods to deter flies. Some include:
Fans
Flies are weak fliers. Installing a fan in high-traffic fly areas can create a wind barrier that will frustrate their attempts to land, thus decreasing their presence.
Fly Traps
Homemade fly traps using ingredients like vinegar and sugar can attract and trap flies. Placing these traps alongside your penny setups may create a multi-faceted deterrent.
When to Seek Professional Help
In cases where fly infestations become overwhelming, it may be time to consider professional pest control services. Signs that you may need professional help include:
- Growing Population: If you notice flies increasing despite your efforts, it’s a sign that they may be breeding.
- Source of Infestation: Professional help can identify and eliminate breeding grounds that are often undetectable to the average homeowner, such as decomposing organic materials hidden from view.
The Cost-Effectiveness of Penny Solutions
One notable advantage of the penny method is its cost-effectiveness. A small jar filled with pennies and water is far less expensive than purchasing commercial fly traps or sprays. Additionally, this method provides an environmentally friendly solution, minimizing your usage of harmful chemicals and contributing to a greener household.
Environmental Responsibility
In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, utilizing natural and non-toxic alternatives to control pests is essential. Using pennies as a fly deterrent aligns with eco-conscious practices and can serve as an inspirational demonstration of how household items can be repurposed for pest management.
When you add herbs and natural repellents into the mix, you further contribute to a natural and friendly approach to pest control, preserving the balance within your living environment.
Conclusion
In summary, while the question “how do pennies get rid of flies?” might initially seem trivial, the underlying concepts showcase a clever use of basic science and nature’s principles. The reflective qualities of pennies can indeed create a disorienting environment for pesky flies, making it a noteworthy addition to your pest control arsenal.
Combining this method with proper hygiene practices, the incorporation of natural repellents, and an understanding of when to seek professional help can maximize your effectiveness in managing these common invaders. With a bit of creativity and resourcefulness, you can reclaim your space from flies without relying solely on conventional methods.
Why not give it a try? With the power of pennies, you might just find the perfect blend of fun, flair, and function in your fight against flies.
What is the theory behind using pennies to eliminate flies?
The theory behind using pennies to eliminate flies is rooted in the idea that reflecting light can disrupt their vision. When pennies are placed in a clear, water-filled bag, the light refracts through the water and reflects off the shiny surfaces of the coins. This creates a visual distraction for flies, making it difficult for them to land.
Some people believe that the combination of light reflection and distortion may create an environment that is unwelcoming for flies, effectively keeping them away from that area. While scientific studies to directly support this method are scarce, many anecdotal accounts from home and business owners suggest that it can be effective in deterring flies.
Are there any specific types of pennies that work best?
Generally, any coin can be used for this purpose, but many people prefer to use pennies because of their size and reflective properties. Older pennies made of copper, minted before 1982, may reflect light even better than newer pennies due to their composition. However, for most DIY methods, modern pennies will still be suitable if they are clean and shiny.
The key is to ensure that the pennies are well-positioned in the water bag so that they catch the light effectively. A bag that can enhance the visual effects, like a clear plastic bag, combined with shiny coins, can maximize the potential for repelling flies.
How do you set up the penny solution for fly control?
To set up the penny solution, fill a clear plastic bag with water about three-quarters full. Next, add five to six shiny pennies into the bag. Seal the bag tightly to prevent any leaks. You can then hang the bag in areas where flies are a problem, such as near entranceways, patios, or outdoor dining spaces.
Ensure that the bag is hung in a position where it will receive ample sunlight. The more light that hits the bag and reflects off the pennies, the more effective it may be in deterring flies. Make sure to change the water and clean the pennies regularly to maintain their shine and effectiveness.
Is this method safe for pets and children?
Yes, using pennies in a water-filled bag is generally considered safe for pets and children. The setup is simple and non-toxic; it involves only water and coins. However, it’s always wise to ensure that small children do not have access to the coins or the bag itself, as they could pose a choking hazard if handled improperly.
If you have pets, ensure the area where the bag is hung is out of reach, especially if your pets tend to investigate objects that are unusual. Overall, as long as basic precautions are taken, this method is safe and poses no harm to your household.
How effective is this method compared to other fly control options?
The effectiveness of using pennies in water bags for fly control can vary widely. While there are numerous positive testimonials from individuals who swear by this method, its success may not match that of traditional fly control measures such as traps, insecticides, or professional pest control options. However, it is appealing as a non-toxic and environmentally friendly alternative.
Some people find that this method serves as a helpful supplement to other fly control strategies, adding an additional layer of deterrence. It can be particularly useful in outdoor settings, where other methods might be less practical or effective.
Can this method be used indoors as well?
Yes, you can use the penny method indoors as well as outdoors. The reflective nature of the pennies can help deter flies in spaces such as kitchens, dining rooms, or near windows where flies often enter. However, it’s essential to consider potential issues with water spills or the safety of hanging bags indoors.
When using this method indoors, choosing a location that maximizes sunlight exposure is crucial, as natural light enhances the effect of the bag and coins. Just be sure the setup does not create a mess or tripping hazard in your living space.
How long does the penny method remain effective?
The effectiveness of the penny method can diminish over time, primarily due to factors such as dust accumulation on the coins or changes in the clarity of the water. It’s essential to regularly check the setup, ideally once a week, to ensure the pennies still shine and the water remains clear. Refreshing the water and cleaning the coins can help maintain the deterrent power.
As long as the coins stay clean and reflective, and the bag remains intact, this method can offer an ongoing solution to fly issues. Keeping in mind that this is just one tool in your fly control arsenal is essential, as persistent fly problems may require additional measures.
Are there any scientific studies supporting the penny method?
Currently, no scientific studies specifically validate the effectiveness of using pennies in water bags for fly deterrence. The method appears to be based more on anecdotal evidence and folk wisdom than on rigorous scientific testing. While many people share positive experiences in using this method, scientific backing is lacking.
That said, various studies regarding how flies perceive light and their attraction to visual stimuli may help explain why reflective surfaces could potentially confuse or deter them. Until more empirical studies are conducted, the penny method will likely remain a popular but largely theoretical approach to fly control.