Banish fruit flies for good with these expert tips

Fruit flies are the ultimate kitchen nuisance, buzzing annoyingly and reproducing at an alarming rate. But fear not, for we've got the lowdown on how to get rid of these pesky critters for good.

Know your enemy

Fruit flies are attracted to ripe and rotting fruits and veggies, so keep your kitchen clean and free of food debris. Regularly wipe down counters, sweep or vacuum floors, and store produce in the fridge. They also love fermented items like beer, wine, and liquor, so keep an eye on those too.

Trapping them out

For a simple, effective solution, fill a jar with apple cider vinegar and a few drops of dish soap. Cover the container with plastic wrap, poking a few holes, and place it near the infestation. Fruit flies will be drawn to the smell and get trapped inside. Change the liquid daily until the problem's solved.

Prevention is key

To stop fruit flies from coming back, practice good housekeeping. Wash produce upon arrival, dry out sinks and showers, and fix any leaky pipes. Screens on windows and doors also help keep them out. Regularly clean up crumbs, spills, and trash, and store fruits and veggies properly.