As temperatures slightly improve, UK homeowners are finding their homes are beginning to be overrun by flies. This is a frequent yet unwelcome occurrence, especially throughout the summer months, with many individuals spending considerable time each evening attempting to expel mosquitos from their bedrooms in pursuit of an undisturbed night's rest.

Pest control specialists have uncovered a straightforward and budget-friendly solution to this predicament that can be sourced from your neighbourhood supermarket for under £1.

With the onset of milder weather,flies are expected to remain a persistent irritation until summer's conclusion, according to Ideal Home.

Consequently, it's crucial to begin implementing preventative strategies immediately before your property becomes overrun with these irritating insects.

According to pest control specialists, all that's required to repel flies is a cucumber - readily available in supermarkets such as Tesco for approximately 99p.

Flies detest the scent of cucumber. House flies are said to be repelled by the scent of cucumbers, especially the more bitter varieties.

The exact reason is not fully understood, but it's believed that the natural compounds in cucumber skin, such as cucurbitacins, emit a smell that flies find unpleasant and instinctively avoid. Fruit flies are known to steer clear of cucumbers, as they naturally gravitate towards sweeter fruits.

Therefore, positioning cucumber slices near entry points such as doors and windows, or in locations where flies gather like your kitchen bin or food waste receptacle, can serve as an effective repellent.

Nevertheless, it's essential to prevent the cucumber from beginning to decompose, as rotting produce will draw flies in. Consequently, experts advise replacing your cucumber slices every one to two days.

An insect specialist at Fantastic Pest Control, said: "Using cucumbers as a fly deterrent is simple and natural. It works best for light fly activity. When combined with good hygiene and exclusion tactics, it can contribute to broader integrated pest management approaches. It might not get rid of all flies, but it can significantly reduce their numbers."

One expert, describing the technique as 'surprisingly effective'. Nevertheless, he also stresses that it won't eradicate all flies, so upholding proper household hygiene practices, such as keeping windows closed or blinds drawn, remains vital.

A DIY expert said: "House flies are repelled by the scent of cucumbers, particularly the more bitter varieties. The exact reason isn't fully understood, but it's believed that the natural compounds in cucumber skin, such as cucurbitacins, produce a smell that flies find unpleasant and instinctively avoid."

Tony King, founder of Pied Piper Pest Control told Homes and Gardens: "Flies abhor the natural chemicals in the skin of cucumbers. Cucumber scents - particularly from the skin - contain chemicals such as trans-2-nonenal, which insects dislike.

"It is also believed that the very high water content and acidic nature might interfere with the sensory receptors of the flies."

To use cucumber to get rid of cluster flies or to keep flies out of a garage, Tony recommends slicing cucumbers thinly and placing them where flies congregate, such as window sills, trash cans, or kitchen countertops, where getting rid of fruit flies can be particularly tricky.