To get rid of fruit flies effectively, follow these steps:
1. Clean Thoroughly
- Remove any overripe, rotting, or decaying fruits and vegetables, as these attract fruit flies.
- Wipe down all kitchen surfaces, sinks, and drains to eliminate food residues.
- Take out garbage regularly and keep trash bins clean and sealed.
- Clean drains to remove organic buildup where flies can breed
2. Set Up DIY Traps
- Apple Cider Vinegar Trap : Fill a jar or bowl with apple cider vinegar and add a few drops of dish soap. Cover with plastic wrap and poke small holes. The vinegar attracts the flies, and the soap breaks the surface tension, causing them to drown
- Fruit Trap : Place a piece of overripe fruit in a container, cover with plastic wrap, and poke holes. Flies enter but can't escape
- Wine Trap : Mix red wine with dish detergent in a container, cover with plastic wrap with holes. Flies are attracted and drown in the liquid
- Paper Cone Trap : Put fruit and vinegar in a jar, roll paper into a cone, and place it in the jar opening. Flies enter but can't get out
3. Use Commercial Products or Professional Help if Needed
- Commercial fruit fly traps and insecticides are available for severe infestations.
- Insect growth regulators and aerosol sprays can be used cautiously, especially in food areas
4. Prevent Future Infestations
- Store fruits and vegetables properly, refrigerate when possible.
- Use physical barriers like nets or bags in gardens to protect outdoor fruit from flies
- Manage compost and organic waste to reduce breeding sites
By combining cleaning, trapping, and prevention, you can eliminate fruit flies and keep them from returning
