Certain essential oils, like peppermint, eucalyptus, and lemongrass, repel fruit flies. You can soak a small piece of sponge or cotton ball in these oils and place them around your kitchen.
6. Secure and Clean Garbage Disposals
Ensure your garbage disposal is regularly cleaned as it can harbor food scraps that attract fruit flies. Running it with a mixture of ice cubes and vinegar or baking soda can help clean out residue and reduce attractions.
7. Keep Windows and Doors Screened
Small gaps in screens can let in fruit flies. Check for tears in your window screens and fix them or replace screens as necessary to keep flies out.
8. Roast Them
Cut two lemons or other citrus fruits in half and put them in your oven (right on racks will do). Prop the door open for a few hours. After a few hours, close the door and crank the oven to broil. Turn off the oven, toss the fruit and wipe out the bottom of your stove. Poof. (Remember to put up a gate to block the kitchen or wait until the kids are at school before you try this).
By implementing these easy yet effective techniques, you can say goodbye to pesky fruit flies in your kitchen. Each strategy helps minimize the risk of infestation and contributes to maintaining an overall cleaner and healthier kitchen environment.
