Fruit flies: What causes them, how to get rid of them

The Brief

Fruit flies are swarming Seattle right now, drawn to ripe fruits and moist environments like drains and garbage disposals.

These pests live for 40 to 50 days, thriving in warm temperatures and increase during summer and fall.

DIY traps and thorough cleaning can effectively reduce fruit fly infestations in homes.

SEATTLE - Have you noticed fruit flies buzzing around more than usual in Seattle?

From grocery stores to kitchen sinks, these tiny pests seem to pop up everywhere this time of year, hovering near anything even remotely sweet .

Late summer is peak fruit fly season, but don’t worry — there are simple, natural ways to prevent them and trap the ones already invading your space.

Keep reading to learn what attracts fruit flies and how to kick them out of your hom