Prevent Fruit Flies This Summer in Utah County

When fruit and vegetables become overly ripe in a heated environment, they will begin to ferment and attract fruit flies. Fruits with high sugar content are especially prone to fermentation.

Even if you don't store fruit on the countertop, fermentation can still occur in common waste areas when improperly cleaned. A drain or garbage disposal may carry residue and fruit particles for a prolonged time without your knowledge. Keeping compost in indoor waste bins may also attract flies to a feast. Make sure to clean your drains and empty compost or garbage regularly to prevent fermentation that could attract fruit flies. Other tips include wiping up spills immediately if you spill fruit juice, smoothies, or wine on your counter. Leaving any sugary residue behind on any house surface can attract fruit flies.

Remember to wash your rags, mops, and cleaning supplies as well. While you may have cleaned up a spill, the flies will find it if the sugar is lingering on your cleaning supplies.

Fruit flies may enter your home without your knowledge through the fruits and vegetables you buy in-store or pick from your garden. While they are attracted to rotting or fermented fruits and veggies, they can lay larvae anywhere. Wash your produce before storing it to avoid unwanted tagalongs from your trip to the market.

Make it more challenging for flies to reach their food source by storing your fruits and veggies in closed containers with lids whenever possible. It's best to keep your containers in the fridge during the summer to avoid fermentation and early rotting.

Alternatively, storing your produce in cool drawers can be a better choice than leaving them out on counters and tables if your fridge has no room. Whatever storage method you choose, regularly clean your containers and drawers to wipe away any juices or residue.

If your home is incredibly humid during the summer, it may be wise to invest in a dehumidifier. Removing moisture from the environment makes flies less likely to reside in your home. You may find the air more comfortable, too!

Composting is a great way to repurpose waste and support the environment. Still, during the summer, it may not be the best option. Instead of storing your food scraps in trash bins or on top of counters, consider storing your compost in your freezer for the summer. Your scraps won't rot; you can dispose of them in the fall or take them to a compost site away from your home.

An infestation is easier to prevent than it is to treat. By following these simple tips, you can increase the cleanliness and sanitation of your home and help prevent fruit flies.

While you may only see a couple of flies initially, each fly can lay about 500 eggs during their life. You won't see their microscopic offspring initially. Still, a few fruit flies can be considered an infestation that should be dealt with immediately.

The excellent news about fruit fly infestations is that they pose little threat to your health and do not last forever. Even if you struggle to treat your fly problem throughout the summer, the fall's cooler temperatures combined with the treatment options below should help clear out any remaining flies.

If you need additional help cleaning your drains or dealing with a fly infestation, Thorn in Utah County is happy to support you and get rid of the flies with professional pest control technology. We want you to have a summer of smiles and fun, and we can identify how best to prevent infestations from ever bothering you again. Contact us today!