It’s a good idea to let your hand hover in place for about 10-20 seconds to disarm the fly. [4] X Research source
For instance, if you’re approaching the fly from the front, you know it will likely fly back to get away. In that case, you’d try to strike just a little behind where the fly is now.
If the idea of smushing a fly with your bare hand grosses you out, this probably isn’t the best option for you.
This will take some practice, but it’s a pretty impressive trick if you can master it! Once you do this, simply open the door and release the fly outside. Just be sure not to let any more flies in when you do.
If you don’t want to kill the fly, keep your hands cupped when you clap them together. This will trap the fly in your hands, and you can easily release it outdoors. Some people also recommend clapping your hands just above the fly as it rests on a surface. The fly will see your hands moving from the sides and will fly upward, right into the path of your hands. [7] X Research source
It’s thought that the motion of your hands will confuse the fly as to what direction the threat is coming from, so it won’t know where to go to escape.
If you don’t have soap and water available, use hand sanitizer until you’re able to get to a sink.
If you need to, turn off your TV or radio, along with any fans or appliances that might drown out the sound of the fly.
You can try drawing the fly out by turning off all the lights in the room, then turning on one light source, like a lamp or a TV screen. Be sure to shut the blinds and drapes if it’s light out.
Flies are especially attracted to honeydew melon, so if you have any on hand, slice some up and put it in a bowl![12] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
Flies are excellent at spotting motion, but they’re not as good at picking out shapes, so if you move slowly, they’re less likely to see you as a threat. [14] X Research source
