Remove all ripe/rotting fruit and vegetables immediately
Store fruit in the refrigerator or in sealed containers
Empty trash daily and rinse bins
Clean recycling and compost containers regularly
Wash recycling items before storing
Keep drains clean; scrub sink and disposal areas
Pour boiling water down drains regularly (safe for your plumbing)
Use a drain cleaner made for fruit-fly/organic buildup if needed
Fix leaks under sinks, refrigerators, and around pipes
Clean under and around garbage cans, recycling bins, and pet food areas
Wipe countertops, spills, and sticky residue daily
Cover or refrigerate beverages and fermenting foods
Clean floors and mop up spilled juices, soda, wine, or sweet liquids
Use vinegar traps: place apple cider vinegar in a bowl/jar with a few drops of dish soap; cover with plastic wrap and poke small holes
Use commercial fruit-fly traps if preferred
Set up multiple traps near suspected breeding areas
Remove and clean garbage disposal splash guards and surrounding areas
Check houseplants: let soil dry out and remove algae/decaying matter on top
For indoor plants, replace topsoil if heavily infested
Add a thin layer of sand or horticultural grit on top of potting soil to reduce egg-laying
Use sticky traps near windows and entry points to capture adults
Seal entry points: close gaps around doors/windows and use screens
Run exhaust fans in kitchens and ensure good ventilation
Repeat traps and cleaning for several days until activity stops
If infestation persists, discard heavily infested items and deep-clean all likely breeding sites