How to Stop Fruit Flies in a Pantry or Produce Cabinet

A hidden potato, onion or damaged piece of fruit can support an unexpectedly persistent fruit fly problem. Cleaning visible counters will not help until the fermenting source is found.

Search the overlooked spots

• Inspect onions, potatoes, bananas and other produce stored in baskets, bins or pantry corners.
• Discard decomposing items in a sealed bag and take them outside promptly.
• Wash and dry shelves, bins, nearby walls and reusable produce bags.
• Check returnable bottles, cans and recycling for leftover sugary liquids.
• Store susceptible produce appropriately and continue checking for fresh fly activity.

What to avoid

A vinegar trap may reduce adults but cannot fix rotting material behind a cabinet or appliance.

Frequently asked question

Can fruit flies come from dry flour or sealed rice?

Fruit flies are typically associated with fermenting or moist organic material, not clean, sealed dry grains. Other pantry insects have different habits.