If you’ve ever had a swarm of flies show up the second you open a door or slice into some fruit, you know how quickly they can take over your home. It’s annoying, embarrassing, and kind of gross.
Most people reach for fly sprays filled with chemicals—or start swatting like they’re auditioning for a kung fu movie.
But what if all you needed was something you already had under your kitchen sink?
Yep, we’re talking about Pine-Sol.
This old-school cleaner isn’t just for floors anymore. Turns out, it can actually help keep flies away. But how? And does it really work?
Here’s the real scoop on using Pine-Sol for flies, how to make your own fly-repellent spray, and a few simple tricks to keep your home smelling clean and fly-free.
Why Flies Hate Pine-Sol
Flies, especially houseflies and fruit flies, are repelled by strong scents like pine, eucalyptus, and lemon. Pine-Sol has a crisp, powerful scent that flies seem to hate.
It’s not toxic to humans when used correctly, but it’s enough to confuse a fly’s tiny brain and send it somewhere else.
The reason? Their scent receptors get overwhelmed. Just like you might leave a room that reeks of ammonia, flies want nothing to do with a freshly Pine-Sol’d area.
How to Use Pine-Sol to Repel Flies (3 Easy Methods)
Here’s how you can use Pine-Sol around your home to help repel those annoying buzzers.
1. Pine-Sol Fly Spray
You’ll need:
- ½ cup Original Pine-Sol (not lavender or lemon versions)
- ½ cup water
- Spray bottle
- Optional: 10 drops eucalyptus or lemon essential oil
Mix equal parts Pine-Sol and water in a spray bottle and shake it up. You can use this on surfaces like door frames, counters (just not food-prep surfaces), porch railings, and even patio furniture.
The scent lingers just enough to confuse and repel flies.
Spray once or twice a day in areas where flies seem to gather, like near trash cans, entryways, or windows.
If you want an extra scent boost, a few drops of eucalyptus oil give it more staying power.
Note: Always spot test if you’re using it on painted surfaces.
2. Mop Your Floors with Pine-Sol
You’ll need:
- ¼ cup Pine-Sol
- 1 gallon warm water
- Mop or microfiber floor pad
Flies love to land on dirty floors and sticky surfaces. Mopping with a Pine-Sol solution helps repel them and keeps your floors clean.
Focus on entryways, kitchen floors, and mudrooms—any area that gets traffic from outside.
This also helps mask any lingering food smells that attract flies in the first place. It leaves your home smelling fresh and clean, without the fake air freshener vibe.
3. Wipe Down Garbage Cans and Counters
You’ll need:
- Pine-Sol (undiluted or diluted 1:1 with water)
- Cloth or sponge
Take a few minutes once a week to wipe down your kitchen garbage can, under-sink cabinet, or wherever trash and food scraps collect.
This is fly HQ if left unchecked.
Using Pine-Sol in these high-risk areas can keep the scent strong and discourage flies from hanging around.
You can even pour a bit into the trash can liner for an added scent barrier.
Where to Spray Pine-Sol for Best Results
- Around door frames and thresholds
- Along window sills
- Patio furniture and outdoor railings
- Inside trash cans or compost bins
- Behind the toilet (where fruit flies sometimes hide!)
- Near sinks or drains
Is Pine-Sol Safe for Pets?
Pine-Sol should never be sprayed directly on pets or their bedding. While it’s generally safe on surfaces after drying, you’ll want to avoid spraying areas your dog or cat lays on or licks.
Stick to non-pet zones like doorways, trash cans, or baseboards.
If you’re looking for a more pet-safe option, check out our post on Natural Fly Repellent Recipes That Actually Work.
Other Smart Tips for a Fly-Free Home
Using Pine-Sol helps, but it works best when you combine it with good fly hygiene. Here are a few simple things you can do:
Take Out the Trash Daily
Flies are obsessed with food scraps and sticky stuff. Even if it’s not full, take it out before bed.
Cover Fruit or Store It in the Fridge
Ripe bananas and cut-up watermelon are fly magnets. Try keeping fruit under mesh covers or chilling it when possible.
Keep the Sink and Drains Clean
Leftover food in the disposal or around the drain attracts flies fast. Sprinkle baking soda and vinegar down the drain once a week for a fly-safe cleanse.
See our post on How to Get Rid of Gnats in House for more drain tricks.
Can Pine-Sol Kill Flies?
No, Pine-Sol isn’t a bug killer. It’s a repellent. That means it helps keep them from landing and lingering, but it won’t knock them out mid-air.
For that, you’ll still need a trap or swatter. But if your goal is prevention? Pine-Sol is a surprisingly solid tool in your cleaning-and-bug-fighting combo.
FAQ – Quick Answers
Does Pine-Sol repel flies?
Yes. Its strong pine scent confuses and repels flies, making them less likely to land or linger.
How often should I spray it?
Once or twice a day in high-traffic areas is usually enough.
Can I mix Pine-Sol with vinegar or bleach?
Never mix Pine-Sol with bleach—it creates toxic fumes. Stick to Pine-Sol + water (and maybe essential oils).
What type of Pine-Sol works best?
The original pine-scented version is most effective. Some of the newer scented varieties aren’t as strong and don’t repel flies as well.
Final Thoughts: Does Pine-Sol Really Work for Flies?
It’s not magic. But it’s close.
If you’re dealing with houseflies or fruit flies and want to avoid harsh sprays, Pine-Sol is a smart, affordable, and easy tool to try. It won’t solve a full-blown infestation, but for everyday prevention? It works better than you’d think.
Plus, your house will smell super clean.
