Materials:
- A small bowl or container
- White vinegar
- A few drops of Dawn dish soap
- Plastic wrap
- A toothpick or fork
Procedure:
1. Prepare the Trap: Pour a few tablespoons of white vinegar into the small bowl or container. Add a few drops of Dawn dish soap and stir the mixture. The soap breaks the surface tension of the vinegar, causing the fruit flies to sink and drown.
2. Cover the Bowl: Cover the bowl with a piece of plastic wrap and secure it tightly with a rubber band or string.
3. Poke Holes: Using a toothpick or fork, poke several small holes in the plastic wrap to create entry points for the fruit flies. Make sure the holes are big enough for the fruit flies to enter but small enough to prevent them from escaping.
4. Place the Trap: Place the covered bowl near areas where you have noticed fruit flies, such as near fruit bowls, sinks, or trash cans. Ensure the trap is easily accessible to the flies.
5. Replace the Mixture: As the trap fills up with fruit flies, or if the liquid evaporates, empty the bowl and replace it with a fresh vinegar and soap mixture.
Additional Tips:
- Use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar, as it can be more attractive to fruit flies.
- Add a small amount of sugar to the vinegar mixture to further entice the fruit flies.
- Place multiple traps in different areas of your home if you have a significant fruit fly problem.
- Keep your kitchen clean and free of overripe fruits and vegetables to reduce the chances of attracting fruit flies.
- Dispose of trash regularly and keep trash cans covered.
- Repair any cracks or holes in screens and windows to prevent fruit flies from entering your home.
By following these steps, you can effectively trap and eliminate fruit flies using a mixture of Dawn dish soap and vinegar. This method is non-toxic and can be safely used around food preparation areas.