Last Updated on September 27, 2023 by The Bug Experts Team

Flies can be a persistent annoyance in our homes, and their presence isn’t always linked to the most obvious culprits. Beyond the well-known factors like garbage and leftover food, there are some truly surprising home elements that can lure flies inside. In this article, we’ll check out some of the the surprising home factors that attract flies. Many of the things attracting flies to your home could be lesser-known and unexpected factors that most people never even consider. Understanding some of the lesser known factors that may attract flies to your home can shed light on the more unconventional aspects of fly infestations and offer solutions to keep your living space fly-free. We’ve got 10 Suprising home factors that attract flies to your home, and then a bonus 8 more ultra surprising factors that most people would never think of – Check them out below.

1. Houseplants: While indoor greenery can enhance your home’s aesthetics, some houseplants can become breeding grounds for flies. Overwatered or neglected plants can create excess moisture, attracting flies. To prevent this, ensure proper drainage, avoid overwatering, and keep an eye on soil moisture levels. Looking for plants that can repel flies and keep them away? Check out our article on The Best Plants to Keep Flies Away.
2. Trash Can Hygiene: It’s no secret that flies are drawn to garbage, but the trash can itself might be more appealing than its contents. Leftover food residue and odors on the exterior of your trash can can attract flies. Regularly clean and disinfect your trash cans to eliminate these attractants.
3. Pet Waste: Flies are attracted to pet waste, not just in your yard but also in litter boxes and pet bedding indoors. Keep outdoor pet areas clean and dispose of waste promptly. Indoors, regularly clean and change your pet’s litter box and wash their bedding. Make sure to thoroughly clean the site of any accidents – even if there isn’t a visual residue, small leftover particles can still attract flies.
4. Moisture and Humidity: Flies thrive in humid environments. Leaky pipes, dripping faucets, or even excessive indoor humidity can create the perfect conditions for fly breeding. Address any water leaks promptly and maintain proper ventilation to reduce indoor humidity levels.
5. Cleaning Products: Certain cleaning products and scents, especially those with fruity or floral fragrances, can attract flies. Be mindful of using strong-smelling cleaners and ensure thorough rinsing to remove residues that may attract these pests.
6. Compost Bins: While composting is an eco-friendly practice, it can also attract flies. To mitigate this, ensure your compost bin is tightly sealed and aerate it regularly to speed up decomposition and reduce fly-friendly conditions.
7. Damp Towels and Cloths: Moist towels and cloths, especially those left in a damp pile, can be an invitation for flies. Hang wet towels to dry and avoid leaving them in a pile, as this can create a breeding ground for flies.
8. Organic Mulch: Organic mulch and rich top soil in your garden beds can provide a breeding ground for flies. Flies are attracted to the decomposing organic matter in mulch. Consider using inorganic mulch or regularly turning organic mulch to discourage fly activity.

9. Dirty Drains: Filthy drains can accumulate organic matter that attracts flies. Keep your drains clean and free of debris by using drain cleaners or natural alternatives like baking soda and vinegar.
10. Wet or Muddy Shoes: Wet or muddy shoes left by the entrance can also be an unexpected fly attractant. Flies are drawn to the moisture and organic material on the soles. Encourage family members to wipe their shoes thoroughly or store them outside.

8 Suprising Home Factors That Attract Flies that Most People Never Even Consider

1. Sunlight Through Windows: Believe it or not, sunlight can be one of the home factors that attract flies that never even gets considered by most people. Flies are drawn to natural light streaming through your windows. This attraction to sunlight can lead them indoors, to areas around windows. Keep your windows and doors tightly sealed to prevent flies from entering. You can use curtains or shut the blinds in rooms where flies are drawn to windows.
2. Fragrant Candles: Scented candles, often used to create a pleasant atmosphere, can unwittingly invite flies due to their appealing aromas. This can be especially true for sweet scented candles that mimic foods like desert and fruit. Opt for unscented candles or keep scented ones far from open windows and doors.

3. Dirty Laundry: Your laundry pile may be an unsuspecting fly magnet. Sweat and body odors on dirty clothes can attract flies. Always keep your laundry well-contained in hampers and avoid letting it pile up for too long.
4. Wine and Fruit: Flies have a penchant for wine and fruit, but it’s not just the ripe ones that pique their interest. Even unopened bottles of wine or fresh, uncut fruit can attract flies. Store them in sealed containers to deter these unwanted guests.
5. Homegrown Vegetables: Growing your vegetables in a garden can be satisfying, but flies are drawn to the scent of fresh soil and budding plants. Keep an eye on your garden’s proximity to entry points, and consider using natural repellents to protect your produce.
6. Essential Oils: While some essential oils are used for pest control, certain fragrant oils can attract flies. Avoid diffusing overly sweet or floral essential oils during fly-prone seasons..
7. Bookshelves and Cardboard Boxes: The glue used in book bindings and cardboard boxes can release odors that attract flies. Regularly clean and dust bookshelves and store cardboard boxes in dry, sealed containers.
8. Shoes by the Door: Shoes (even when not muddy or dirty) that are left by the entrance can inadvertently carry outdoor odors, stinky foot odor, and organic material that attract flies. Store shoes away from entrances or in sealed containers to minimize this attraction.

We’ve covered many of the most common home factors that attract flies. For another list with additional factors, you can see this article from The Buster Group on What Attracts Flies.

Become a Pro at Eliminating The Hidden Home Factors That Attract Flies

In the ongoing battle against household flies, knowledge of the Surprising Home Factors That Attract Flies is your first line of defense. While addressing common culprits like food waste remains crucial, this article sheds light on often-overlooked sources of fly infestations. By proactively countering these unexpected attractions, you can ensure a fly-free living space that’s both more comfortable and healthier for your family. Remember, prevention is the key to maintaining a pest-free home, and understanding these Surprising Home Factors That Attract Flies is a significant step in that direction.