With summer temperatures climbing above 25°C across much of the UK, many households are noticing an increase in flies buzzing around their kitchens. While most people focus on clearing bins and leftover food, cleaning experts warn that three often-neglected areas are prime breeding grounds for flies during hot weather.
Nancy Emery, home and cleaning specialist at Tap Warehouse, highlights that the combination of warm weather, open windows, barbecues, and increased food waste can make kitchens especially inviting to pests. She points out that sink drains, pet food bowls, and unwashed recycling containers often go unnoticed but can quickly become fly magnets.
“People usually remember to dispose of food scraps and empty bins,” Nancy explains, “but pet food bowls, sink drains, and rinsing out recycling are easy to overlook. Keeping these areas clean can help maintain a fresher kitchen and reduce fly activity during heatwaves.”
To minimize fly invasions this summer, Nancy recommends focusing on these three key areas:
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Sink Drains and Plug Holes
Small food particles trapped in sink drains and plug holes can produce unpleasant odors that attract flies. Regularly rinsing or wiping these areas with washing-up liquid after cooking or cleaning keeps them hygienic and less appealing to pests.
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Pet Food Bowls
Leftover wet or dry pet food can quickly lure flies, especially when bowls are left out for extended periods in warm conditions. Nancy advises rinsing pet bowls after each feeding when possible and cleaning the surrounding feeding area daily to eliminate residual food and odors.
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Unwashed Recycling Containers
Food residues on meat trays, tins, and packaging inside indoor recycling bins can generate strong smells that attract flies, particularly after barbecues or outdoor meals. To combat this, rinse food packaging before recycling and move bins or bags outside regularly during warm spells to prevent flies from entering the home.
By paying attention to these often-forgotten kitchen areas during the heatwave, households can significantly reduce fly activity and keep their kitchens cleaner and fresher all summer long.