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July 30, 2026

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I love sitting outside on a nice day, whether it's enjoying my morning coffee or having dinner on the patio. The only thing that seems to arrive uninvited? Flies.

I've tried sprays and citronella candles, but I'm always interested in simple, low-cost tricks that are worth testing. This week's tip uses two things you probably already have in your kitchen, and while the science isn't completely settled, there's an interesting explanation for why some people swear it works.

Be Well,
Anisa

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Can a Bag of Water Really Keep Flies Away?

Handy
Photo: A simple bag of water and a few pieces of aluminum foil may help make your patio less inviting to flies.

This old-fashioned trick has been around for years, and many homeowners still use it during barbecue season.

Simply fill a clear sandwich bag about three-quarters full of water, add a few small balls of crumpled aluminum foil, seal the bag, and hang it near a doorway, porch, patio, or picnic table where flies tend to gather. Some people even use a few shiny pennies instead of foil.

So Why Might it Work?

No single scientific study has proven this method is consistently effective, but researchers and pest experts have proposed a few possible explanations.

The shiny foil reflects sunlight in multiple directions, creating flashes of light that may confuse flies. The water inside the bag can also act like a magnifying lens, bending and scattering light as it passes through. Because flies have compound eyes made up of thousands of tiny lenses, these constantly changing reflections may disrupt their vision and make the area less comfortable to fly through.

While experts don't all agree on how well the trick works, it's inexpensive, chemical-free, and easy to try. At worst, you've used a sandwich bag, some water, and a little foil. At best, you may enjoy a more peaceful afternoon outdoors.

In Closing

Not every household trick has rock-solid science behind it, but this one has been passed down for generations for a reason. Since it costs almost nothing and takes just a minute to make, it might be worth hanging one up before your next backyard meal.

Got a handy tip of your own? Reply back to me, I love reading your emails!


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