Fruit flies are more than a nuisance in the home, the pests can land on nearby food, swarm the kitchen, and multiply. Pest expert Jonathan Nicholls at HomeHow.co.uk has revealed the one task you can do to get rid of them.
“In order to effectively tackle a fruit fly infestation, you will need to first understand their life cycle,” said Jonathan. Adult fruit flies are attracted to fermented fruits, vegetables and sugary substances in the home. Once inside your abode, a female fruit fly can “lay hundreds of eggs” which can hatch into larvae “within just a day”.
“This rapid reproductive cycle means that, if not addressed promptly, an infestation problem can get out of hand in no time,” Jonathan warned.
One of the most simplest ways to address a fruit fly problem is to make a trap.
An example of an effective trap includes the use of just soap and water.
Jonathan explained: “This trick is as simple as mixing water with a few drops of dish soap in a bowl.
“The soap will break the surface tension of the water, making it difficult for the flies to escape once they land.”
An alternative trap includes using apple cider vinegar which you put into a “bowl or jar before covering it with cling film and poking small holes in it”.
Jonathan elaborated: “The sweet aroma through the small holes will attract the flies, while the cling film will trap them inside.”
In addition to making traps, it’s helpful to remove any overripe fruits or vegetables you may have in the kitchen.
It’s also advisable to wipe down countertops, tables, and the interiors of your kitchen cupboards where sticky residue may have accumulated.
“Lastly, don’t forget to regularly deep clean your sink, as food particles can often hide in the drain, providing a perfect breeding ground for these fruit flies,” added Jonathan.
Once the fruit fries have been eliminated, you can help to prevent a re-infestation by regularly cleaning surfaces, quickly disposing of any fermenting fruits, and to monitor houseplant.
Jonathan explained: “Fruit flies can emerge from the soil of houseplants, particularly if the soil is overly moist. Make sure to keep a close eye on your plants, allowing the soil to dry out between watering.”