Fruit flies: those tiny pests that seem to appear out of nowhere and take over our kitchens.
Majda Medved, in her quest to reclaim her home from these unwelcome guests, shared a simple yet effective solution.
While many have tried various methods to get rid of these nuisances, Medved’s approach targets the very heart of the problem: the eggs.
The Solution: How to Get Rid of Fruit Flies
Despite trying various homemade and store-bought traps, the fruit flies in her home persisted. Upon researching, she learned the real problem was the eggs laid by adult fruit flies inside the drains.
Medved discovered that pouring boiling water down the drains could kill the eggs, addressing the root of the problem. However, this was a short-term solution.
She had to pour boiling water down every drain in her home over several days to eradicate the fruit flies. Though requiring patience and consistency, this method effectively eliminated the fruit flies from her home.
Tips & Reactions
In the video’s comments section, viewers shared their techniques and experiences. Some mentioned covering all drains while on vacation to prevent fruit flies, while others pointed out that fruit flies also lay eggs on walls.
Another user suggested using hot water and Dawn dish soap as an alternative to boiling water. Despite the various methods available, deep drain cleaning was emphasized as a crucial step in eliminating fruit flies.
One commenter thanked Medved saying “I didn’t know that! Thanks”
Eradicating Fruit Flies: Initial Steps
Fruit flies, tiny reddish-brown creatures, often infest kitchens, especially around fruit bowls. They lay their eggs in rotting produce and sugary surfaces, entering fruit through any nicks or cuts on the surface.
To eliminate an infestation, the first step is to discard anything that attracts them. Dispose of any ripe fruit or vegetables in your kitchen, as fruit fly larvae will tunnel their way into the food and begin feeding after hatching.
Store new produce in the refrigerator until the infestation is under control. Ensure to remove the garbage and clean all containers and surfaces, including the bottom of your trash can, of spills and food residue that could nourish these pests.
Don’t forget to clean the drain, a moist environment that may contain fermenting waste. Turn up your air conditioning to create unfavorable living conditions for the fruit flies, as they thrive in warm climates.
Effective Fruit Fly Traps
To trap the remaining fruit flies, several effective methods can be used. One way is to place bait inside a glass jar and then place a funnel over the opening of the jar with the spout pointing down.
This creates a tiny entrance that is easy for the flies to enter but almost impossible for them to exit. Another method is to securely cover the opening of a nearly empty bottle of vinegar, beer, or wine with plastic wrap and poke a hole or two in the plastic.
The fruit flies can make their way in through the holes but won’t be able to get out. Fill a microwave-safe bowl with apple cider vinegar and a few drops of dish soap for extra-tough cases.
Microwave the bowl so the mixture becomes even more aromatic. Leave the bowl out uncovered as fruit fly bait. The soap will reduce the surface tension, causing any fruit fly that lands on the surface to drown.
Prevent future infestations by thoroughly checking the produce you buy, washing and drying unrefrigerated produce as soon as you bring it home, regularly cleaning up spills, and taking out the garbage.
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Sources
- foodnetwork.com/how-to/articles/How-to-Get-Rid-of-Fruit-Flies#
- goodhousekeeping.com/home/cleaning/tips/a25042/how-to-kill-fruit-flies/
- countryliving.com/home-maintenance/cleaning/a27284947/how-to-get-rid-of-fruit-flies/
This article was produced and syndicated by Viral Chatter. It was inspired by this video:
@majdamedved we did it 3 times a day (morning, afternoon, night) and after 2 days there were none left!! keep the traps out as well. #fruitflies ♬ original sound – majda medved
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.
