A home and garden expert has shared a simple trick that could help get rid of fruit flies in your home. The pests can quickly appear in large numbers as they reproduce rapidly in favourable conditions and are strongly attracted to ripening and fermenting fruit, sugary liquids and other moist organic material.
Check your lawn daily
According to Andy Simms of Builder.com, the reliable way to hire tradespeople, fruit flies can become a large infestation in just a few days, but there are tricks that can help keep them at bay.
He exclusively told us: "They're also prone to entering into our homes and can easily do so through tiny gaps around our windows and doors. To keep these pests away, your best bet is to regularly check that your lawn is clear of any fallen fruit by checking your lawn once a day."
Andy said that if you do find fruit that needs disposing of, it should not be placed on top of your compost bin, as this can still attract unwanted pests. To help cover the waste, you can use grass already in your garden.
Cover fruit with grass
Andy says: "You'll do a much more effective job of keeping them away if you cover fruit up with grass."
If the pests continue to be a problem after doing this, Andy suggested setting up an apple cider vinegar trap. According to TheKitchn.com, the trick involves taking a jar and punching a few tiny holes in the lid (or you can use cling film).
They recommend filling the jar with 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar and a few drops of liquid dish soap. Once left out, they say the fruit flies will come flocking.
Seal entry points and clean kitchen
Andy continued: "At the same time, it may be worth checking for, and sealing, entry points into your home, as well as looking for hidden sources of moisture, such as in your drains and plant pots. These places are especially where pesky fruit flies love to lay eggs!"
According to Good Food, cleanliness, particularly in the kitchen, should also be considered when trying to get rid of fruit flies. They advise putting fresh produce in the appropriate storage places as soon as it comes into the house, while properly disposing of anything that is no longer edible.
They also recommend doing the washing up straight away, particularly in hot weather and if something fruity has been used in your cup or bowl. The website adds that the sink should be kept clean right down into the drain, suggesting pouring a kettle of boiling water down the plug to kill off any eggs or larvae that may be living there. Bins should additionally be emptied regularly, particularly food waste caddies, while kitchen cloths should be put through the wash cycle to give them a thorough clean, the website added.
