Got fruit flies in your kitchen? Here's How to get rid of fruit flies quickly. Savoir. Faire.
What are Fruit Flies?
Fruit flies are a type of fly. Although they look similar to gnats at first glance, you can tell fruit flies apart by looking at their colour. Gnats are typically black or grey while fruit flies are light brown, red or orange. While they can appear at any time, fruit fly infestations are most likely to occur in the summer or fall with rising temperatures and fresh, ripe fruit around.
What Causes Fruit Flies?
It seems like they always appear out of nowhere, but fruit flies are attracted to overripe produce. Leftover crumbs and spills from sugary food and drink on counters can also attract fruit flies, as can a build-up of grime and food particles in your kitchen sink. Fruit flies lay eggs in these places, which means where there’s one, there are usually a lot more to come.
How to Get Rid of Fruit Flies in the House
Getting rid of fruit flies is relatively easy as there a number of different methods and products available that you can try. From natural remedies to traps and sprays, just choose the method that works best for you.
An alternative version of fruit fly traps uses sticky strips that you can leave on counters, windowsills or even hang up. The sticky coating attracts, traps and kills adult fruit flies. Be mindful if you have pets and make sure to place the strips out of their reach. Fruit fly sprays can be used directly on the bugs or to clean counters, garbage cans and cabinets. Most pest sprays contain non-toxic chemicals, but be sure to read the label first and be mindful of using sprays and traps near children and pets.
Prevention of Fruit Flies is Key
The key to getting rid of fruit flies for good is to prevent them from invading your space in the first place. Here are a few tips to prevent your kitchen from becoming a fruit fly haven:
Clean up spills from fruit juice, wine, beer, soda and other sticky or sweet beverages immediately
Keep drains clean and clear of any food particles
Always clear standing water
Put half-empty drinks in the refrigerator
Be sure to clean jars, bottles and other recycling to remove sticky or sugary residue
Keep ripe, bruised or darkened fruit in the fridge
Check fruit regularly for rot or bruising
Take out the garbage regularly
Fruit flies may be annoying, but you can get rid of them. Plus, a few simple preventative measures can help ensure they never come back. If you have a fruit fly problem, take a look at the different fruit fly traps we have available to get rid of the little bugs as soon as possible.