How to Beat Fruit Flies Before They Take Over Your Kitchen

If you’ve noticed tiny flies buzzing around your kitchen lately, you’re not alone. Fruit flies, also called Drosophila melanogaster, are very common at this time of year.

These little insects are small, usually black or brown, and tend to gather in groups.

They are drawn to the smell of fermenting fruit and even garbage that hasn’t been thrown away yet, writes El Economista.

It’s easy to pick up a piece of fruit in the summer and suddenly see one or more fruit flies nearby.

The Trick

They reproduce quickly. If you don’t act fast, a few flies can turn into a full infestation in just a few days.

The larvae, or baby flies, feed on the fruit where their eggs are laid. The adult flies also rely on rotting food for survival.

This means it is very important to find any spoiled fruit or garbage and remove it quickly from your home.

Once you see fruit flies, there are some simple ways to stop them from multiplying and to keep them away.

One popular trick is to make a trap using hot water, liquid soap, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.

Pour the mix into a jar or bottle. The flies will be attracted to the smell but will get stuck in the liquid.

Plants that Repel

Certain plants like basil and lavender naturally repel many insects. Keeping these near your fruit bowls or trash cans can help keep fruit flies away.

Good hygiene is key to preventing fruit flies. Throw out garbage and spoiled fruit regularly. Clean your kitchen thoroughly to avoid leaving behind any food scraps or debris that might rot.

Fruit flies may be small, but they can become a big problem fast. Catching them early and keeping your home clean are the best ways to keep your kitchen fly-free.