Say goodbye to fruit flies and learn how to prevent them from returning.
Blaine Richardson is the chief operating officer atSaela Pest Control.
What Are Fruit Flies?
Both gnats and fruit flies are only about 1/8-inch long.
The biggest difference is where they like to hang out.
And, unfortunately, fruit flies are highly reproductive.
Where Do Fruit Flies Come From?
This rapid reproduction can create an infestation in your home.
From store-bought or DIY fly traps to insecticides, here are some options.
Set Up Fly Traps
Fly traps are important control tools that eliminate new adults as they emerge.
Store-bought fly trapsstop the flies from breeding and can be purchased at your local hardware store.
Make a Fly Trap With Vinegar
Don’t have vinegar on hand?
Use a slice of ripe banana instead.
The fruit flies should sink into the mixture after landing.
Try leaving an old bottle of either (with some liquid remaining) out to entice the flies.
you could also add dish soap to the liquid to increase the chance of trapping the fruit flies.
Here are some easy ways to prevent fruit flies in your home.
Eliminate Potential Breeding Grounds
Keep in mind that fruit flies breed in moist or damp environments.
Avoid Inviting Them Indoors
Keep your windows and doors sealed tight.
Minimize how long doors stay openespecially when bringing in the groceries or similar scenarios.
Toss spoiled produce in the garbage and take it outside the house.
Be sure to keep garbage containers and recycling bins closed and empty them regularly.
Clean trash cans and recycling binsindoor and outdoorto minimize fruit flies in and around your home.
Potter, Michael F. Fruit Flies.
University of Kentucky Department of Entomology, 2017.
United States Environmental Protection Agency.
Citizens Guide to Pest Control and Pesticide Safety.
