What are Fruit Flies?

Fruit flies are tiny insects that are often seen buzzing around kitchens, garbage areas, and anywhere food is exposed. They measure about 3 to 4 millimeters in length and are typically tan or brown with red eyes. These pests are strongly attracted to ripened or fermenting fruits and vegetables, but they will also breed in drains, garbage bins, and recycling containers if organic residue is present. Their rapid life cycle allows them to multiply quickly, making infestations frustrating and difficult to control without proper treatment.

Signs of Fruit Fly Infestation

You may have a fruit fly problem if you notice:

• Small flies hovering near fruits, vegetables, or sugary drinks
• Groups of flies around garbage cans, recycling bins, or compost piles
• Flies lingering near sinks, drains, or dirty dishwater
• Larvae or eggs on overripe or decaying produce
• Increased activity during warmer months when breeding accelerates

Why They are a Problem

Fruit flies may seem harmless at first, but they can spread bacteria and other pathogens by landing on food and surfaces. This contamination can be a health risk in both homes and commercial settings like restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores. A large infestation can also become disruptive, with swarms of flies appearing quickly and making it difficult to maintain a clean and sanitary environment.

Where Do They Come From?

Fruit flies are attracted to places where food or organic matter is available. Common sources include:

• Overripe fruits and vegetables left on counters
• Unsealed garbage or recycling bins
• Moist drains and food residue in sinks
• Fermenting liquids like juice, wine, or beer
• Compost bins or outdoor food waste containers

Even a small amount of leftover food or liquid is enough to attract them and allow breeding to begin.

How to Get Rid of Fruit Flies at Home

If you are wondering how to get rid of fruit flies, here are some effective steps you can try:

• Discard overripe or spoiled produce immediately
• Clean and sanitize garbage bins, recycling containers, and compost bins regularly
• Rinse empty bottles and cans before placing them in recycling
• Wipe down counters and clean up spills promptly
• Pour boiling water or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar into drains to remove breeding sites
• Use DIY traps by placing apple cider vinegar with a few drops of dish soap in a small container to attract and trap flies

These methods can reduce fruit fly numbers temporarily, but ongoing infestations often require professional help to identify hidden breeding sites and stop them for good.

Fruit Flies vs Drain Flies

Fruit flies are often mistaken for drain flies, but there are key differences:

• Fruit flies are tan or brown with red eyes, while drain flies are grayish and fuzzy with a moth-like appearance
• Fruit flies are drawn to food, fermenting liquids, and produce, while drain flies breed in drains and areas with stagnant water
• Fruit flies hover actively around food sources, while drain flies usually rest on walls near drains

Correctly identifying the pest is the first step toward effective treatment.

How We Can Help

At Go Away Pest & Wildlife Control, we know how frustrating fruit fly infestations can be. Our team locates the source of the problem, whether it is exposed food, hidden organic buildup, or overlooked breeding sites. We use safe, effective methods to eliminate the infestation and prevent it from returning. Whether in a home, restaurant, or commercial facility, we provide lasting solutions so you can enjoy a clean, pest-free environment.