Introduction
Flies are a common nuisance, especially during the warmer months when they are attracted to food, waste, and general indoor warmth. While there are plenty of chemical fly traps on the market, why not make your own with ingredients you probably already have at home? This simple 2-minute vinegar trap is an effective and environmentally friendly way to keep your home free from flies. Not only is it quick to make, but it uses non-toxic materials, making it safe for your family and pets.
Ingredients
1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar
1-2 drops of dish soap
A small bowl or jar
Plastic wrap (optional)
Instructions
Pour about 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar into a small bowl or jar. Apple cider vinegar is particularly effective at attracting flies because of its fruity, fermented scent.
Add 1-2 drops of dish soap to the vinegar. The soap reduces the surface tension of the liquid, causing the flies to sink once they land on the vinegar.
(Optional) If you’d like to make the trap more effective, cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Poke small holes in the wrap, just big enough for flies to enter. The flies will be attracted to the scent, enter the bowl, and then become trapped.
Place the trap in areas where you’ve noticed flies (near garbage cans, windows, or food storage areas).
Leave the trap out for a few hours or overnight. You’ll notice the flies being drawn to the vinegar and getting stuck in the solution.
Serving and Storage Tips
You can place multiple traps around your home if you’re dealing with a particularly bad infestation.
Once the trap is full or the vinegar begins to lose its effectiveness, simply discard it and prepare a fresh trap.
This trap is best used indoors, especially in kitchens, dining areas, and near windows.
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