Common mistake people make in summer 'attracting fruit flies' - how to keep them at bay

As the weather gets warmer, Brits are being urged to avoid making a common mistake that could attract fruit flies. A waste expert has shared some tips on how to keep these pests at bay.

By Melanie Kaidan, Lifestyle Reporter

fruit flies

Common mistake people make in summer 'attracting fruit flies' - how to keep them at bay (Image: Getty)

Brits are being warned to avoid slip-ups that could lead to a fruit fly invasion this summer.

An expert in waste management has shared tips on how to deter these unwelcome visitors as temperatures rise.

Speaking to Devon Live, Paul Jackson from NRC Business Waste, emphasised the importance of proper rubbish disposal: "The predicted increase in fruit flies this summer highlights the need for good waste management.

"Rotten food attracts these pests, so it's important to dispose of it quickly."

How to get rid of fruit flies.

Managing your compost

Paul advised using a tight-fitting lid on the kitchen compost bin. This straightforward yet effective approach helps keep fruit flies at bay and prevents infestations.

Fruit flies

Brits are being urged to avoid making a common mistake that could attract fruit flies (Image: Getty)

"Emptying your kitchen bin regularly, ideally every one to two days, can also help reduce the amount of food scraps attracting flies.

"Consider relocating the bin outside during warmer months to minimise the risk further," the expert told the Mirror.

If you have enough space, consider freezing your food scraps. This slows down decomposition and kills any fruit fly eggs.

Some kitchen compost bins are designed to fit in your freezer, offering an alternative to keeping them on the countertop.

Fruit fly

An expert in waste management has shared tips on how to deter fruit flies (Image: Getty)

If freezing isn't feasible, routinely cleaning and bleaching your compost bins can help minimize fruit fly infestations.

Your bins

Paul shared his quick fixes: "Carry food waste outside in a kitchen caddy before disposal to avoid spills, keep the environment clean and make food caddies well-ventilated. Also, keep waste out of direct sunlight to reduce bacteria growth and discourage fruit flies."

To prevent caddy liners from splitting and spilling, avoid overfilling them and adhere to the recommended fill levels.

These waste management practices are crucial for avoiding health hazards and minimising fruit fly infestations.

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