How to Get Rid of Fruit Flies in Your Home
If you’ve ever had a problem with pesky fruit flies, you know how difficult they can be to get rid of. Fruit flies are a common pest in numerous homes. These tiny insects can reproduce quickly, leading to an infestation that’s both annoying and unsanitary.
According to the experts at Orkin, a single female fruit fly lays between 500 eggs in her lifetime. The larvae hatch and mature into adults in as little as four days, which means the fruit fly population can explode in a very short amount of time.
In this article, you’ll learn how to get rid of fruit flies in your home, prevent their return, and maintain a fruit fly-free environment.
What are Fruit flies?
Before tackling the issue, you need to confirm that fruit flies are the culprits. Fruit flies are small, usually about 1/8-inch long, with red eyes and a tan or brownish body. They are attracted to ripe, rotting, or decaying fruits and vegetables, making your kitchen a prime target.
Eliminate the Source
First and foremost, you must remove any food sources that attract fruit flies. Regularly inspect your fruits and vegetables, and discard any that are overripe or show signs of decay. Store produce in sealed containers or in the refrigerator to prevent fruit flies from accessing it.
Additionally, clean your kitchen surfaces and trash bins to eliminate residues that may attract insects.
DIY Fruit Fly Traps
Create your own fruit fly traps using everyday household items. Here are two simple methods:
Vinegar Trap
- The first step is to fill a small container with apple cider vinegar, wine, or a combination of both.
- Add a drop of dish soap to break the surface tension.
- Then cover the container with plastic wrap, and poke tiny holes in the top.
- Place the trap near the affected area.
Funnel Trap
- Place a piece of ripe or rotting fruit in a jar.
- Then roll a piece of paper into a funnel shape with a small opening at the bottom.
- Place the funnel into the jar, ensuring that the opening does not touch the fruit.
- Set the trap near the infested area.
Chemical-Free Solutions
If DIY traps aren’t enough, try these chemical-free solutions to help you get rid of fruit flies:
Essential Oils
Create a spray by mixing a few drops of lemongrass, peppermint, or eucalyptus essential oil with water. Spray the mixture on surfaces where you’ve seen fruit flies deter them.
Sticky Traps
Purchase sticky traps designed for fruit flies at your local store. Hang them near the infested areas to catch the insects.
Preventing Future Infestations
Once you’ve managed to get rid of fruit flies, it’s crucial to prevent them from returning. Follow these steps to maintain a fruit fly-free home:
Keep Your Home Clean
Regularly clean your kitchen, taking care to remove food residues, crumbs, and spills. Empty your trash bins frequently, and wash them with soapy water to eliminate odors that attract fruit flies.
Store Produce Properly
Store fruits and vegetables in sealed containers or in the refrigerator. Check them often, and discard any that are overripe or showing signs of decay.
Use Screens and Seal Cracks
Install screens on your windows and doors to prevent fruit flies from entering your home. Seal any cracks or gaps that may provide entry points for the insects.
By following these steps, you can effectively rid your home of fruit flies and prevent them from coming back. Stay diligent, and enjoy a fruit fly-free living space.
