If you wondering how you could repel fruit flies and get rid of them? Well, you’re most likely familiar with essential oils and may even have a few bottles.
If you want to keep fruit flies out of your kitchen but hate the idea of using toxic products or spending a small fortune on products to treat the problem, you’ll be happy to know that a plethora of natural remedies treats fruit flies just as well as those expensive solutions at the home improvement center.
Top Essential Oil to Repel Fruit Flies
1. Thyme Oil
Thyme oil was also tested in the previously mentioned 2016 study. Fruit flies that came into contact with thyme oil had a higher mortality when compared to the other essential oils.
Since thyme oil is known to be effective on other pests such as stick bugs and mosquitoes the Researchers noted that it could be a good candidate for a natural insecticide.
A bundle of thyme. Thyme was used to ward off nightmares in the middle ages and is now a staple in most kitchens.
2. Clove Oil
Clove is oftentimes used in the kitchen when preparing holiday meals and during other times of the year. It’s also beneficial for toothaches and numerous other health concerns.
But, clove oil also rids a kitchen of flies fairly quickly and without a lot of effort required. If you experience a problem with flies, try a bit of clove oil to remedy the problem.
3. Lavender Oil
Lavender is known for its relaxing properties. It’s a favorite essential oil for adults who want a bit of comfort in their day. But, fruit flies aren’t so keen on lavender. If you have flies in the home and any lavender essential oil, use it to eliminate the problem.
4. Lemongrass Oil
Lemongrass oil is highly effective in treating fruit flies. Fill a spray bottle with water and add 10 drops of lemongrass oil. Spray the oil/water concoction in areas where you see flies. In no time, any active fruit flies will die off and risks of any future infestations are eliminated.
5. Peppermint Oil
Peppermint is another smell that fruit flies simply don’t like. They’ll also avoid any area with a peppermint smell. Place a few cotton balls dipped in peppermint essential oil in the area where fruit flies are present and watch them quickly dissipate.
It’s a simple and easy trick that really works.
Along with peppermint oil being an effective essential oil for fruit flies its also known to be an effective natural pest repellent against cockroaches, house flies, and mosquitoes.
In addition to repelling flies and other pests peppermint, essential oil can also kill them. To do this however the pests need to come into direct contact with the oil.
Read Also: Essential Oils for Ingrown Toenail: How to Prevent Ingrown Toenails
How to Use Essential Oils for Fruit Flies
When using essential oils it’s important to remember that they should never be used at full strength. To use essential oils for fruit flies you have to main options.
Option one is to make a spray, and hit the buggers as you see them. The second option is to use a diffuser near the fly outbreak.
Essential Oil Spray
The first step is to create an essential oil mix. To do this you will need basil or peppermint oil, distilled water, and grain alcohol. It’s important to use at least 190 proof grain alcohol.
The higher alcohol content is needed for the components to mix.
Remember oil and water typically do not mix. The higher alcohol content also prevents bacteria from growing in your spray. Below is a simple and effective recipe.
- 1oz 190 proof alcohol
- 2 3/4 oz distilled water
- 1 1/2 teaspoon essential
Using a Spray Bottle for Essential Oil
The first and simplest option is to create a spray. If you just want to test your mix use a spray bottle that will not need to be reused for anything else.
Once you are happy with the results be sure to transfer the mix to a dark glass bottle and store it in a cool and dark location. Heat and light will degrade the potency of your mixture.
Using a Diffuser for Fruit Flies
If you elect to use a diffuser to fight flies just use a few drops of essential oil and water and place the diffuser near the fly infestation. If you do not already own a diffuser there are many to choose from.
Essential oil diffuser options range from elaborate one hundred dollar models to the basic under twenty dollar price range. For most people the basic model is adequate.
Amazon offers a great basic model that includes a night/mood light mode along with auto-shutoff. This is my personal favorite since its under thirty dollars with an almost five-star review.
Once you select a diffuser be sure to follow the instructions carefully. Diffusers often have specific settings that will relate to your room size and how long you want it to run.
Be careful if using a diffuser around pets and small children. This is especially true with cats, as essential oils can be fatal to cats.
Other Home Remedies to Eliminate Fruit Flies
1. Detergent trap
Simply add a drop of detergent to a quarter of a glass of wine and leave it overnight next to your fruit bowl. The flies will drop in for a little tipple, and die in the process.
2. Apple cider vinegar
One to two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in a small bowl near your kitchen bench will attract any flies, and trap them in the process.
3. Fruit trap
Make a DIY fruit trap with a few pieces of fruit combined with two tablespoons of balsamic vinegar in a small bowl. Cover with plastic wrap, piercing a few holes with a fork. The flies will be attracted to the fruit, sneak in the holes, and be trapped.
4. Sink drain
Pour a bucket of boiling water mixed with detergent down your sink. This will kill any fly eggs, and eliminate any flies living in that area.
Bottom Line
Essential oils provide relief for a variety of concerns around the home, including the treatment of fruit flies. Although other oils eliminate the problem, those listed above are the best and most commonly used products.
Try them out at your home if you notice a problem with fruit flies and discover an easy and affordable fruit flies solution.
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