No one wants pesky fruit flies in their kitchen. It seems like no matter season they tend to find their way into our kitchens, and buzz around our sinks, countertops, and stoves. They carry bacteria, disease, and drive us crazy. We need these bad boys out of our hair and houses. Here are five things to do to get rid of them for good.
Find the Source
Fruit flies survive off of…well…fruit. They eat other things too. Any food scraps left on your countertops, your open trash can, or even in your pantry can keep fruit flies alive (and multiplying). Try locating where the flies tend to gather because this could be the main food spot and source of your problem.
Keep Your Fruits in Sealed Plastic Containers
Bananas age faster if they are refrigerated so many opt to leave their fruits and vegetables on the countertop. This move is keeping those annoying flies alive. If you choose to keep produce on your counter, try keeping your all your fruits and vegetables in sealed, plastic containers. Flies won’t be able to get their hands on your fruit and your fruit will stay fresh for a little longer.
Check your Garbage Disposal
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One thing we often forget about is the leftover food particles in our garbage disposals. Always run your disposal alongside water to break down food that may be stuck in your line. At the end of each week pour hot water into your disposal to help wash away grease that may cause food clogs and attract flies to the sink. Remember to deep clean your garbage disposal weekly to prevent flies from finding a new place to eat their dinner.
Catch the flies with Apple Cider Vinegar and Dish Soap or a Fly Strip
For an all natural solution to killing fruit flies, fill a bowl with apple cider vinegar and dish soap and leave it for 24 hours. Remove the solution the following day and repeat until the flies are gone. If you can stand the eye-sore of a fly strip, they are effective in removing flies fast and keeping them away. Spring and winter are busy seasons for bugs so leaving a flycatcher out can help prevent new flies from making your kitchen home.
Wash Your Walls
Bugs can leave trails that will keep them coming back over and over (Ants are known for doing this too). Use Windex to remove insect trails from your walls and countertops. This will also eliminate sauce and food stains on your walls that might be a hidden source of food.
