Are you troubled by pesky fruit flies swarming your kitchen counter? Here’s a handy guide to clearing them out for good.
Find the sources
First, find and eliminate any potential source of your infestation. Decaying fruit is the fruit fly’s ideal breeding ground, but it’s not the only one. These clever critters can breed in any location with traces of moist, organic material. That could be waste containers, garbage disposals, drains, empty alcoholic beverage containers, and even cleaning cloths.
Fruit fly traps
Once you’ve removed ALL potential sources, here are some proven ways to rid your home of the remaining ones.
- Apple cider vinegar trap. Place apple cider vinegar in a container and add a few drops of dishwashing detergent. Cover it with plastic wrap secured with an elastic band. Poke holes in the plastic. Flies will be drawn to the scent, enter the container, and then be unable to get out. If the flies are not attracted to the trap, they may be another type of fly such as drain flies or fungus gnats.
- Light trap. Place a lamp or other light source where you want to lure the fruit flies. Set out a bowl with water made sudsy with dishwashing detergent. The light attracts the flies, and the bubbly water traps them.
- Commercial fly trap. There are several products on the market, such as the Fly Web Fly Trap, that can save you time and effort. Talk to a pest control professional about which product will work best for you.
- Insecticides. Poulin’s carries aerosol space sprays and contact sprays to control fruit flies, quickly.
Prevent their return
Once you’ve rid your home of fruit flies, take precautions with your food to keep them out for good. Store fresh fruit and vegetables in the refrigerator, if possible. Wash fresh produce stored outside of the fridge to remove larvae that may already be on it, and then cover it. Once produce is overripe or fermenting, get rid of it. If you’re reluctant to let it go to waste, cook it into preserves.
You should also add a few cleaning habits to your routine. Keep your drains clear of food particles. Clean up spills and dishes immediately. Remove trash and recyclables often.
Insect control in Western Canada
Show the flies who’s boss with Poulin’s Pest Control. Our experts will eliminate any infestation and keep your property pest-free. Providing commercial and residential services across Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, we deliver effective and lasting solutions. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.