Fruit flies are a common household annoyance, particularly during the summer months. They are attracted to ripening fruits, vegetables, and even spilled liquids, making kitchens and bathrooms prime breeding grounds. But what happens when you set traps, only to see them return again and again?
According to cleaning expert Ann Russell, the culprit is not just the existing flies, but their offspring. Fruit flies lay up to 100 eggs a day, each one a potential new pest. This explains why even after catching a few, you might still be battling an infestation.
Ann warns that conventional fruit fly traps may actually worsen the problem by attracting more flies. Her solution? A thorough clean up to eliminate the source of the problem. She advises filling your sink with hot, soapy water and cleaning everything meticulously until you discover what’s attracting the flies. This could be a rogue droplet of juice behind the bin, a neglected compost bin, or even a leaky drain.
Once you’ve addressed the source, Ann recommends a two-week daily routine of pouring boiling water down your drains and overflows to eradicate any lingering eggs. This, combined with regular bin emptying and a meticulous cleaning routine, will create an environment that is less appealing to fruit flies.
Remember, the key to banishing fruit flies for good is to eliminate the source of their attraction and deny them the opportunity to breed. By following Ann’s advice, you can finally say goodbye to these pesky insects and reclaim your home’s cleanliness.
