Chef Charles Kim, known on TikTok as Chef Fatty, has shared a DIY four-ingredient trap that aims to banish fruit flies for good, along with preventative steps to stop them returning.
While many have enjoyed the warm summer temperatures, the heat can also invite unwelcome pests indoors. Fruit flies are not harmful themselves, but they can be a nuisance and potentially spread bacteria, so taking action to remove them is advisable.
Why fruit flies keep coming back
In a video from May, Chef Fatty explained why fruit flies never seem to disappear. He said: "Why don't fruit flies ever go away? You set up the trap, you throw out the fruit. But the next week, they're back."
He added: "Let me show you how to get rid of fruit flies for good."
Fruit flies are not actually drawn to the smell of fruit itself, but to the yeast developing within the fruit through fermentation, the chef explained. In reality, the flies are seeking out another source of fermentation.
The trap and prevention steps
The build-up of debris and food residue in kitchen sink drains is the primary culprit behind a fruit fly infestation. A single female fruit fly can lay 500 eggs that hatch in just one week.
Preventative steps include covering fruit or leftover food with mesh to cut off the flies' food supply. Chef Fatty urged people to keep sinks spotless, wash plates and bowls promptly, and keep sponges hygienic, as fruit flies can lay eggs on them.
To divert flies away from food and drains, Chef Fatty suggests placing a mixture of apple cider vinegar, beer and a slice of ripe banana in a glass. Adding a drop of washing-up liquid traps them in the mixture. Unroll a piece of cling film, rub it with another slice of ripe banana, and place it over the rim of the glass with the banana side facing down. Pierce holes in the cling film to create entry points, then leave the glass in the kitchen for several days.
Cleaning drains to stop infestations
To stop fruit flies appearing in the first place, Chef Fatty advises using an enzyme cleaner in every drain throughout the house, allowing it to sit overnight to eliminate build-up.
He explained: "Enzyme cleaner is not only safe for your drain, but it has bacteria that will literally eat the gunk inside your pipes."
