Question from a GON
Reader
How Can I Get Rid of Fruit Flies?
Dear Maria,
I love your newsletter so much. Thank you for your constant motivation and guidance. I'm hoping you
can help me with a very pesky problem: fruit flies in my kitchen. Do you have thoughts for getting rid of them? They're always flying in my face and I cannot stand them. Please help!
-- Eve
from Peoria, IL
Maria's Response
Hi Eve,
I'm thrilled to hear that you enjoy my newsletter and are finding the motivation and guidance
from it that you need. Thanks for letting me know.
Dealing with fruit flies can indeed be quite bothersome, but worry not. I have some effective suggestions to help you tackle this pesky
issue.
1. Eliminate breeding grounds. Make sure to wipe down countertops, clean up spills, dry your sink after use, and empty your trash (every single day) to eliminate potential breeding grounds.
Fruit flies are drawn to decaying bananas, potatoes, onions, and other perishable produce bought from the grocery store that hasn't been refrigerated. Get rid of decaying produce. Store ripe fruit in the refrigerator or in airtight containers to prevent attracting
fruit flies.
2. Creating a homemade fruit fly trap can work wonders. Fill a small, very shallow bowl with apple cider vinegar and add a few drops of dish soap. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and poke a few small holes in it. The scent of the vinegar will attract the flies, and
the soap will break the surface tension of the liquid, causing them to drown. Place these traps near areas where you notice the most activity.
For optimal results, leave the trap out for
about a week. During this time, regularly monitor it, emptying it and replacing the vinegar mixture as needed. As you do this, you'll likely notice a decrease in the number of fruit flies caught in the trap.
If you still notice fruit fly activity after a week, you can continue using the trap for an
extended period until you no longer observe a significant number of flies being caught. Remember that the key to success with this method is consistency and patience.
3. Remove sources of excess moisture, as fruit flies are attracted to damp environments. Fix any leaky faucets and ensure
that your kitchen is well-ventilated. Furthermore, consider using natural repellents like essential oils. Mix a few drops of lemon, eucalyptus, or lavender oil with water in a spray bottle and use it to deter fruit flies from congregating in your kitchen.
4. Check for gaps. For a
longer-term solution, focus on preventing fruit flies from entering your home in the first place. Install screens on windows and doors to keep them out, and check for any gaps or openings where they might be getting in.
I hope these suggestions help you get rid of those pesky fruit flies once and
for all. Remember, consistency is key, so continue with these measures until you notice a significant reduction in their presence.
