How to Get Rid of Fruit Flies Naturally

Fruit flies are a pain. They thrive in moist damp places and absolutely love fruit, especially ones that are rotting or fermenting. To get rid of these tiny bugs, I use a couple of different methods.

The first thing I would recommend though, is removing the rooting fruit from the area and throwing it away. You could also place some of the remaining fruit in the fridge, bake with it (things like apple crumble or banana bread) or simply eat it. 

Fruit flies tend to breed in wet places like in your drains. I recommend pouring a mix of half white vinegar and half boiling water down your drain on a daily basis to stop them breeding.

1.Apple Cider Vinegar 

This is a simple trap to make and you will need:

• a glass jar like a mason jar
• apple cider vinegar
• dish soap
• overripe piece of fruit (optional)
• clingwrap
• rubber band
• fork / toothpick

First, heat up about 1/2 cup (170g or 6 oz) of apple cider vinegar. This helps to release a more irresistible fragrance.

Pour the warm apple cider vinegar into your jar.

Add a couple of drops of dish soap onto the apple cider vinegar. This helps to break the surface tension, stopping the fruit flies from sitting on top of the liquid.

Cover the top of the jar with cling wrap, using the rubber band to hold it in place. Prick some holes into the cling wrap with a fork or toothpick and place the jar where close to the fruit flies. you could add an overripe piece of fruit into the mixture before adding the cling wrap for extra temptation.

2.Lemongrass Spray 

The other method I use to keep the fruit flies at bay is this lemongrass spray. 

For this method, you will need:

• 8-10 drops of Lemongrass or Lavender Essential Oils
• a clean spray bottle
• 60ml (2 ounces) hot water 

In the spray bottle add the essential oil of your choice and the hot water. Shake well. 
Spray along the windowsills, doorways and directly on the fruit flies.

3.Basil

It seems that fruit flies don’t like basil. If you grow your own herbs, you could place your basil pot plant  in the kitchen near the fruit bowl. You may also like to pick some of your basil leaves, wash and dry them and place them on your fruit.

 

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on this website.