A chef has shared a simple three-step guide to get rid of fruit flies 'for good', focusing on cleaning drains and using a homemade trap.
Why fruit flies are hard to eliminate
Fruit flies are among the most common pests in UK homes, especially during warm summer months. They are tiny but persistent, often returning despite traps and removing fruit.
Chef Charles Kim, known as 'Chef Fatty' to his social media followers, explained: "Fruit flies don't come for the fruit. They come for the yeast that's growing in the fruit through fermentation. And the biggest source of fermentation in your house isn't fruit. It's actually the gunk inside your drains."
He added: "One female fly can lay 500 eggs, which will hatch in about a week." This means cleaning areas like drains is essential to break the cycle.
The 3-step method
First, prevent fruit flies from laying eggs by covering any fruit left out with mesh. Also, ensure sinks and sponges are clean, as flies can lay eggs in sponges.
Second, capture existing flies with a trap. Combine apple cider vinegar, beer, and an overripe banana in a cup. Add a drop of washing-up liquid to trap them. Cover with plastic wrap rubbed with banana, poke holes, and leave for a few days.
Third, clean all drains in the home, not just the kitchen. Use an enzyme cleaner, which breaks down organic waste naturally. Let it sit overnight before rinsing.
Following these steps should eliminate fruit flies permanently. Keeping the home clean and free of fermenting materials will prevent their return.
