How To Control Fruit Flies In Your Home

Fruit Flies on Orange

Summer fruits and vegetables are awesome and taste delicious, not just for you but for fruit flies as well. If you keep fruit and vegetables on your counter in the kitchen or pantry, Ace’s Home Expert, Lou Manfredini has the tips and advice you’ll need to keep fruit flies away.


Sugar and moisture are the two things that attract fruit flies the most. Follow the tips below to reduce these factors attracting the pests into your home:

  • Inspect the fruit and veggies and make sure that they are not bruised, and liquid is not oozing out. This will attract fruit flies even more, with the sugary parts of the fruit exposed. Try not to purchase bruised or overripe fruit, or store it in your fridge.
  • Take a damp paper towel and wipe the fruit or veggies before placing them in a bowl on the counter. This will get rid of any fruit juices that are drawing in the flies. Dry the fruit to prevent moisture.
  • If the fruit flies are still invading, try a shallow small bowl with apple cider vinegar and a little honey. They will be attracted to the solution and fruit flies cannot swim.
  • There are several makers of fruit fly traps that you can place on the counter to attract and eliminate them. Terro is a great brand to use.

For more helpful tips and advice, visit Ace Hardware’s Tips & Advice

Published 8/2/21

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