DIY Fruit Fly Traps (Gets rid of them fast!)

No one wants fruit flies buzzing around their kitchen! Follow my step-by-step guide and learn how to trap fruit flies using 3 basic household items. These fruit fly traps are super easy to make and are highly effective!

Get rid of fruit flies with these Fruit Fly Traps

I'm always trying out new recipes in my kitchen, and one thing I can't stand is fruit flies flying around my fresh produce. But it can't always be helped, especially during the summer heat. That's why I want to share with you my foolproof method for getting rid of fruit flies using just 3 pantry staples - apple cider vinegar, dish soap, and plastic wrap.

It's quick, easy, and always works in getting rid of fruit flies FAST. You don't need to spend money on expensive sprays or traps; just follow these simple steps, and you'll know how to catch fruit flies in no time!

What are fruit flies?

Before we dive into the trap-making process, let's talk about what fruit flies actually are. These tiny insects can appear out of nowhere in your kitchen, usually attracted to overripe fruits and vegetables. Fruit flies are part of the Drosophilidae family and are easily recognizable by their small size, tan or brown body, and bright red eyes. They aren't exactly harmful, but they can be a major nuisance and can potentially contaminate food if left unchecked.

Fruit flies feed on decaying organic matter (hence why they love ripe fruits and veggies) and can lay up to 500 eggs at a time. That's why it's important to act fast when you spot them, or else they'll multiply quickly! 

What attracts fruit flies?

Sweet, fermented scents are like a magnet for fruit flies, making them especially attracted to ripe or decaying fruits and vegetables. They can also be drawn to rotting or moist organic matter like garbage and compost. Empty cans or bottles with some liquid left in them can also attract these pesky insects.

How do you get rid of fruit flies?

Getting rid of fruit flies is all about eliminating their food sources and trapping them. Throw away any overripe fruits or vegetables, and make sure all surfaces are clean and dry. Then, set up some fruit flies traps and watch them work their magic!

How to make a Fruit Flies Trap

Never wonder how to trap fruit flies again with this easy homemade fruit fly trap. You'll need:

• A small bowl or jar
• Plastic wrap
• Apple cider vinegar
• Dish soap

DIY fruit fly trap instructions:

1. Pour ¼ cup of apple cider vinegar into your bowl or jar. Make sure there's enough in the bowl to cover the bottom.
2. Add a few drops of dish soap to the apple cider vinegar. This will help break the surface tension and trap the fruit flies in the vinegar.
3. Cover the bowl or jar with plastic wrap. It should be tight and secure around the edges. You might need to use a rubber band to keep it in place.
4. Poke small holes into the plastic wrap using a toothpick or fork. This will allow the fruit flies to enter but not escape, as they'll be trapped in the vinegar.
5. Leave the trap in areas where you've seen fruit flies. Check it regularly and dispose of any trapped fruit flies.
6. Make as many as needed and repeat the process until all the fruit flies are gone.

How to Trap Fruit Flies

So, how do you get rid of fruit flies if you don't have all the ingredients for this DIY trap? Try these alternative methods:

Red Wine Bottle Trap

Leave a little bit of red wine in the bottom of a bottle and add some dish soap. Place the open bottle near areas where you've seen fruit flies. The sweet smell of the wine will attract the fruit flies, and the soap will trap them.

Store-Bought Traps

There are plenty of fruit fly traps available at stores. You can try some yellow sticky traps like this giant fly glue trap, which is scented to attract fruit flies. Simply hang it near where the fruit flies have been spotted and wait for them to get stuck! Alternatively, a UV light trap can be used to attract and zap the fruit flies.

Prevent Future Infestations

Prevention is always better than cure! There are lots of things we can do to help keep fruit flies at bay. Keep reading to find out some tips and tricks on keeping your kitchen fruit fly-free.

How to prevent Fruit Flies after Getting rid of Fruit Flies

Keeping fruit flies from returning to your kitchen can be as simple as following these tips:

• Store fruits and vegetables in the fridge or in sealed containers.
• Regularly clean and sanitize your kitchen, including countertops, sinks, and drains where fruit flies like to breed.
• Dispose of overripe fruits and vegetables immediately.
• Wipe down and dry any spills (they love moist areas).
• Don't leave dirty dishes or food scraps out, and take out the trash regularly.
• Wash any produce that you bring into your home to remove any potential fruit fly eggs.

FAQs for How to Catch Fruit Flies