Say goodbye to pesky fruit flies in under five minutes with this simple, natural, and affordable trap. Based on proven techniques and science-backed ingredients, here’s how you can easily make your own effective fly trap at home.
Vinegar attracts fruit flies with its fermented smell. Honey or sugar boosts the scent, while dish soap breaks the surface tension, preventing flies from escaping.
Mix the ingredients in the bowl. For a bottle trap, invert the top part of a plastic bottle to form a funnel and seal it with tape.
Place the trap near fruit, trash bins, or windows. It’s ready to go in under five minutes.
Use a paper funnel or perforated plastic wrap to trap flies inside more efficiently.
Add a piece of banana or apple for increased attraction.
Try balsamic or red wine vinegar for a stronger scent.
Change the solution every 2–3 days, or when it becomes cloudy or less effective.
Clean surrounding surfaces (countertops, sinks, bins) to remove alternative food sources for the flies.
Mix 1/2 cup vinegar + 1 cup water + 10 drops of essential oil (citronella, mint, lavender, or tea tree). Spray around sensitive areas.
Place cotton balls soaked with essential oil near entry points or fruits.
Grow basil, lavender, or mint near your kitchen — their scent deters flies naturally.
Use window screens or mesh grilles to keep all fly types out.
This trap is ideal for fruit flies. Less effective for houseflies or mosquitoes.
Rotting fruit nearby may compete with the trap’s scent. Keep the area clean.
Unrefreshed traps lose effectiveness. Replace the mixture regularly.
Fast, natural, and effective — this DIY fruit fly trap is a smart home solution. Try it out and adjust with these variations as needed!
The Bottle Cap Trick to Get Rid of Fruit Flies