Professional cleaners in Finland say fruit flies are among the most persistent summer nuisances, particularly in late summer and early autumn, when the tiny insects thrive in kitchens and bio-waste bins.
Fruit flies not only spoil food by spreading yeast and bacteria but also lay eggs in edible items. According to Reetta Alastalo, CEO of Koti puhtaaksi Oy, the most effective trap can be made with common household items.
“Fill a cup halfway with water, then add a small amount of washing-up liquid, one tablespoon of vinegar, and less than a teaspoon of honey. Stir gently. The detergent removes surface tension so that flies sink into the liquid,” Alastalo explained.
Experts stressed that regular cleaning remains key to prevention. Worktops and sinks should be kept spotless, food stored in sealed containers, and overripe fruit removed promptly.
Sandra Todorovic, a cleaning expert at Freska, noted that fruit flies are especially drawn to organic waste. “Bio-waste is a major source of fruit flies and other pests. Keeping it sealed or removing it often prevents infestations,” she said, recommending disposal every two to three days.
Emma Ketopelto, a trainer at Kotiring, suggested a low-cost alternative trap. “I use banana slices in a bowl covered with pierced cling film. The flies crawl in but can’t escape. Then I press them against the bowl’s edge,” she said.
Beyond fruit flies, household pests such as ants and silverfish also trouble Finnish homes during warmer months. Ketopelto advised regular vacuuming, cleaning inside kitchen cabinets, and pouring boiling water down drains to deter silverfish. For ants, she recommended sprinkling salt along their trails instead of using chemical pesticides.
“Salt is safer for homes with children than toxic sprays,” she added.
All three experts agreed that consistent cleanliness is the most effective defense against pests, underscoring that simple habits can prevent infestations before they spread.
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