The Humble Penny Bag: My Secret Weapon Against Pesky Flies
I’ll never forget the summer I discovered the magic of the penny bag. We were hosting a barbecue, the kind where the air is thick with the scent of grilled chicken and the chatter of loved ones. But hovering over our idyllic scene were these relentless flies, buzzing with an infuriating persistence. I tried everything – citronella candles, swatting, even shooing them away with a tea towel. Nothing worked. Then, my neighbor, a woman with a twinkle in her eye and wisdom in her garden, casually hung a few peculiar-looking bags around her patio. I was skeptical, to say the least. But by the end of the afternoon, her space was remarkably fly-free, while mine was still under siege. Intrigued, I learned her secret: a simple concoction of water, pennies, and a plastic bag. It sounded too good to be true, yet the results spoke for themselves.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 1 bag per area
- Yield: 1 fly deterrent bag
- Dietary Type: Not Applicable (Non-Edible)
Ingredients
- 6 pennies (vintage ones are often said to be more effective, but any will do)
- 1 gallon-size Ziploc bag
- 1 to 2 cups water (enough to fill the bag about halfway)
Equipment Needed
- A hole punch or sharp object (like a skewer or the tip of a knife)
- String, twine, or fishing line
Instructions
This method is wonderfully straightforward, proving that sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective.
- Begin by filling your gallon-size Ziploc bag approximately halfway with water. The exact amount isn’t critical, as long as it’s enough to create a substantial body of liquid within the bag.
- Next, take your six pennies and distribute them within the bag. The most effective placement, as per tradition, is to put three pennies in each corner of the bag. This ensures they are well-submerged in the water.
- Carefully seal the Ziploc bag, ensuring it is completely closed to prevent any leaks. Press out as much excess air as possible before sealing.
- Now, create a way to hang your deterrent. Using a hole punch or a sharp object, carefully make a hole in the middle of the bag, going through both layers of the plastic, just above the Ziploc seal. Be sure the hole extends far enough into the bag to secure the hanging material.
- Thread your string, twine, or fishing line through the hole you just made. Tie a secure knot on the outside of the bag, leaving enough length to hang the bag from a hook, branch, or eave.
- Find a strategic location to hang your fly deterrent. This could be by your back door, on your porch, near an outdoor dining area, or anywhere flies tend to congregate.
- Allow the deterrent some time to work. It may take a day to notice the difference as the flies become accustomed to the area and begin to avoid it.
Expert Tips & Tricks
The beauty of this fly deterrent lies in its simplicity, but a few considerations can enhance its effectiveness. While the traditional recipe calls for six pennies, some swear by adding a few more for an amplified effect, especially in areas with a significant fly problem. The theory behind this technique is fascinating: flies, with their compound eyes, perceive the water-filled bag and the shimmering, reflective pennies as a predatory bird’s eye. This visual cue acts as a natural deterrent, making them feel unsafe and encouraging them to seek calmer, less threatening environments. For maximum impact, hang multiple bags in larger outdoor spaces. Ensure the bags are hung where they can catch sunlight, as this enhances the reflective quality of the pennies and the perceived “eye” effect.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
This fly deterrent is designed for continuous use. Once hung, it requires no further “serving” or preparation. If the water becomes cloudy or the pennies dull, you can simply empty the bag, rinse it out, add fresh water and pennies, reseal, and rehang. For best results, consider replacing the water every few weeks, especially in very hot weather, to prevent stagnation. These deterrents can be left out throughout the fly season, offering ongoing protection without the need for messy sprays or traps.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 5.4 kcal | N/A |
| Calories from Fat | 0 g | 0% |
| Total Fat | 0 g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat | 0 g | 0% |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% |
| Sodium | 7.7 mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 0 g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber | 0 g | 0% |
| Sugars | 0 g | 0% |
| Protein | 0 g | 0% |
Note: Nutritional information is for the water and pennies within the bag, which are not intended for consumption.
Variations & Substitutions
While the classic penny bag is incredibly effective, there are a couple of minor variations worth noting if you find yourself without pennies or want to experiment. Some have reported success using quarters or even shiny metal washers in place of pennies, though the reflective quality is key, so ensure any substitute is similarly lustrous. The type of plastic bag can also vary; a clear, thicker quality bag will likely hold up better over time than a thin sandwich bag. The water itself can be plain tap water. Some anecdotal evidence suggests adding a splash of vinegar might enhance the deterrent effect, though this is not traditionally part of the recipe and the scientific basis for it is unclear. Ultimately, the core components remain the water and the reflective metal.
FAQs
Q: Why do flies avoid the penny bag?
A: Flies perceive the shimmering, water-filled bag with submerged pennies as a visual threat, similar to the eyes of a predator like a bird.
Q: How many bags do I need?
A: The number of bags depends on the size of the area you want to protect. For a small patio, one or two might suffice, while larger yards may benefit from three or more strategically placed bags.
Q: Can I use old, tarnished pennies?
A: While shiny pennies are believed to be most effective due to their reflective properties, some users report success with older pennies. If your pennies are tarnished, you might try cleaning them before use.
Q: Does the type of water matter?
A: Plain tap water is generally sufficient. The key is the volume of water within the bag, which creates the shimmering effect.
Q: How long does a penny bag last?
A: A well-constructed penny bag can last for an entire season. It’s advisable to refresh the water every few weeks to maintain its effectiveness and prevent stagnation.
Final Thoughts
This humble penny bag is a testament to the power of ingenious, low-tech solutions. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most effective answers to everyday problems are the ones that are readily available and require minimal effort. So, the next time you find yourself battling a swarm of buzzing invaders, reach for those forgotten pennies and a simple plastic bag. You might be surprised at how this old-fashioned remedy can bring peace back to your outdoor gatherings and your kitchen. I encourage you to try it and see the magic unfold. Perhaps you’ll even find it inspiring you to look for other simple, natural solutions in your own home. Happy deterring!