To get rid of small flies effectively, follow these key steps:
- Remove Breeding Sites:
- Identify and eliminate all breeding grounds such as moist areas, drains, garbage disposals, and any organic debris.
- Use an industrial-strength drain cleaner like Invade Bio Drain Treatment for drains.
- Dry out soil and cover with a 2-inch layer of sand to prevent breeding in plants.
- Replace sewage-infested soil if dealing with Phorid flies.
- Clean and caulk cracks and dry moist areas to remove larvae habitats.
- Store meats and cheese properly at 30-36°F to prevent infestation by cheese skippers.
- Use Traps:
- Vinegar traps: Use apple cider vinegar mixed with a few drops of dish soap in a bowl or jar. Cover with plastic wrap with holes or use a paper cone funnel. Flies get attracted but cannot escape.
- Beer or wine traps: Leave out open bottles with stale beer or wine which trap the flies.
- Fly light traps attract various small flies for capture.
- Insecticides and Sprays:
- Use non-residual pyrethrin sprays like Stryker 54 Aerosol for immediate kill.
- For longer-lasting control, use Doxem NXT, an aerosol combining insecticides and growth regulators, effective up to 180 days.
- Use insecticidal sprays safe for indoor use, based on natural oils like geraniol or lemongrass.
- Preventive Measures:
- Keep sinks, garbage disposals, and trash cans clean.
- Empty trash cans frequently.
- Cover and refrigerate fruits and vegetables.
- Check and clean refrigerator condensation pans.
- Additional Tips:
- Pour boiling water down drains regularly to kill eggs and larvae.
- Use sticky traps designed for gnats and flies.
- For outdoor control, fix standing water and drainage issues as gnats breed in stagnant water.
These steps together help eliminate the existing flies and prevent future infestations effectively.
