If fruit flies seem to appear out of nowhere the moment you bring home fresh bananas or mangoes, you’re not alone. These tiny pests are attracted to ripening fruit, moisture, and even the slightest trace of sweetness.
But good news—there’s a simple, low-cost hack that can stop fruit flies from invading your fruit bowl once and for all.
And the best part? It takes less than a minute to set up.
The Secret Hack: Use Apple Cider Vinegar + Dish Soap
This classic kitchen trick works amazingly well because fruit flies can’t resist the smell of fermented fruit—exactly what apple cider vinegar resembles.
What You’ll Need:
- 1 small bowl or cup
- Apple cider vinegar
- A few drops of dish soap
- Plastic wrap (optional)
How It Works
1. Pour Apple Cider Vinegar Into a Small Bowl
Just a few tablespoons are enough.
Fruit flies are strongly attracted to its smell because it mimics rotting fruit.
2. Add a Few Drops of Dish Soap
This breaks the surface tension, causing the flies to sink instead of floating.
3. Leave the Bowl Near Your Fruit
Place it beside, not inside, your fruit bowl.
Within hours, you’ll start seeing results.
Optional: Cover with Plastic Wrap
Poke tiny holes in the plastic.
This makes it easier for flies to enter but harder to escape.
Why This Hack Works So Well
- Irresistible scent: Fruit flies are drawn straight to it.
- Effective trap: Dish soap ensures they can’t fly out.
- Non-toxic: Safe for use in homes and kitchens.
- Cheap & easy: You only need pantry items.
- Fast results: Works within a few hours.
Bonus Tips: Keep Fruit Flies Away for Good
Try these habits to prevent fruit flies from returning:
1. Wash Your Fruit
Rinse fruits as soon as you bring them home.
This removes eggs that may already be on the skin.
2. Store Overripe Fruit in the Refrigerator
Fruit flies are especially attracted to soft or aging fruit.
3. Clean Up Spills Immediately
Even a drop of juice or wine can attract flies.
4. Empty Your Trash Frequently
Rotting peels and scraps are prime breeding grounds.
5. Keep Sinks Dry
Moisture is a magnet for fruit flies.
Final Thoughts
Fruit flies may be annoying, but you don’t need harsh chemicals or expensive traps to get rid of them.
With just a bit of apple cider vinegar and dish soap, you can keep your fruit bowl fresh, clean, and completely free of unwanted pests.