Fruit fly season has arrived in its usual gross way, with people up and down the country finding their kitchens invaded by these pests - but there are a number of ways to deter flies and prevent further infestations.

Laura Marsden, cleaning expert at Marigold, has shared her top tips for preventing fruit flies from becoming permanent residences in your home. 

"A tip for deterrence - Fruit flies can't stand the smell of many natural scents, including lavender," added Laura.

When cleaning your worktops and other surfaces, she suggests mixing together a solution of lavender oil and water, which can then be sprayed alongside your usual cleaning products.

Laura finishes: "It’ll deter fruit flies, while also leaving your kitchen smelling lovely – plus, lavender oil contains antibacterial properties, so it’s great for disinfecting."

She says: "Smelly bins are a magnet for fruit flies – rotting or decayed food, particularly fruit, creates the perfect breeding ground.

"Even once you’ve taken the rubbish out, lingering food smells can attract them, so make sure you give your bin a thorough clean.

"For a deep clean, simply make a paste with some bicarbonate of soda and warm water and give your bin a good wipe down, using a durable microfibre cloth (such as the Marigold Let It Shine On & On! Microfibre Cloth)."

She continued: "Wipe off the solution with a damp cloth and let the bin dry before you add a bag – this avoids trapping excess moisture in between the bin and the liner, which could become a breeding ground for bacteria."

If you can't wait for the bin to air dry then Laura advises using a dry microfibre cloth to wipe it down, you can then add a sprinkle of bicarbonate of soda to the bottom of the bin, which helps to eliminate odours.

She added: "No one likes sticking their arm into a smelly, dirty bin, so make sure you keep them protected with gloves, which feature long cuffs for that extra protection.