How to get rid of fruit flies

Fruit flies can be a nuisance, especially in the kitchen or around ripe fruits. To get rid of fruit flies, you can follow these steps:

1. Clean and Remove Attractants:

   • First, eliminate what attracts fruit flies. Ensure all ripe or overripe fruits and vegetables are stored in the refrigerator or sealed containers.
   • Clean up any spilled or rotting fruit on countertops or in trash bins.

2. Empty and Clean Garbage Bins:

   • Make sure your garbage cans and recycling bins are clean and free of food residue.

3. Cover or Seal Food Items:

   • Keep food items like bread, cereals, and grains in airtight containers.

4. Clean and Rinse Sinks:

   • Fruit flies can breed in drains, so clean and rinse sinks regularly. Use a mixture of vinegar and baking soda to clear drains.

5. Remove Breeding Sites:

   • Check for and eliminate any potential breeding sites, such as damp sponges, damp mops, and standing water in trays under potted plants.

6. Use Fruit Fly Traps:

   • Set up fruit fly traps. You can make a simple one by placing a small dish with a mixture of apple cider vinegar and a few drops of dish soap. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and poke small holes in it. The flies will be attracted to the vinegar, but the soap will trap them.

7. Commercial Fruit Fly Traps:

   • You can also purchase commercial fruit fly traps, which are specifically designed to attract and capture fruit flies.

8. Clean Surfaces:

   • Wipe down kitchen surfaces and clean up any crumbs, spills, or food residues that might attract fruit flies.

9. Use Fans:

   • Using a fan in the kitchen can help keep fruit flies away, as they are weak fliers and have trouble flying in the wind.

10. Natural Repellents:

    • Consider using natural repellents like essential oils. Some people find that placing basil, mint, or cloves in the kitchen can deter fruit flies.

11. Regularly Empty and Clean Trash Cans:

    • Empty trash cans regularly and clean them to remove any residues that might attract fruit flies.

12. Monitor and Repeat:

    • Keep an eye on the situation, and if necessary, repeat the above steps to ensure the fruit flies are gone completely.

Getting rid of fruit flies may take some time and patience, as they can multiply quickly. By taking these steps and maintaining good hygiene practices in your kitchen and home, you can effectively eliminate fruit fly infestations.

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Ramesh Gaddam, MD

General Physician, Diabetologist, and Critical Care Specialist.