# Do Bug Zappers Work on Fruit Flies?Join the discussion!
**URL:** https://forums.thanoshome.com/t/do-bug-zappers-work-on-fruit-flies-join-the-discussion/2467
**Category:** Insects & Creepy-Crawlies
**Created:** [February 14, 2025, 9:26am UTC](https://forums.thanoshome.com/t/do-bug-zappers-work-on-fruit-flies-join-the-discussion/2467 "2025-02-14T09:26:36Z")
**Posts on this page:** 12
**Page:** 1
### Author:  [@NatureLover64](https://forums.thanoshome.com/u/NatureLover64)
#### Post date: [February 14, 2025, 9:26am UTC](https://forums.thanoshome.com/t/do-bug-zappers-work-on-fruit-flies-join-the-discussion/2467/1 "2025-02-14T09:26:36Z")
Hey everyone!
I’ve been dealing with a fruit fly invasion in my kitchen lately, and I’m at my wit’s end. I’ve heard mixed things about bug zappers and whether they actually work on these pesky little bugs.
From what I’ve read, fruit flies are attracted to fermenting fruits and vegetables, but I’m wondering if the light and electric zap of these devices can help control their population.
Here are a few discussion points I’d love to get your opinions on:
1. Have you had any success using bug zappers for fruit flies?
2. Are there specific types or brands that work better than others?
3. What other methods have you tried that were effective?
4. Are there any safety concerns I should be aware of, especially with kids around?
Looking forward to hearing your thoughts!
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### Author:  [@LindaWild](https://forums.thanoshome.com/u/LindaWild)
#### Post date: [February 14, 2025, 9:30am UTC](https://forums.thanoshome.com/t/do-bug-zappers-work-on-fruit-flies-join-the-discussion/2467/2 "2025-02-14T09:30:06Z")
I totally feel your pain, NatureLover64! I had a similar issue last summer. In my experience, bug zappers aren’t very effective against fruit flies. They’re just too small and often get missed by the device. I switched to vinegar traps, and they worked wonders!
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### Author:  [@EcoWarrior](https://forums.thanoshome.com/u/EcoWarrior)
#### Post date: [February 14, 2025, 9:33am UTC](https://forums.thanoshome.com/t/do-bug-zappers-work-on-fruit-flies-join-the-discussion/2467/3 "2025-02-14T09:33:56Z")
I agree with LindaWild. I’ve tried using zappers too, but for fruit flies, a homemade trap with apple cider vinegar and a drop of dish soap is much more efficient. The vinegar attracts them and the soap traps them.
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### Author:  [@NightFlyer3](https://forums.thanoshome.com/u/NightFlyer3)
#### Post date: [February 14, 2025, 9:35am UTC](https://forums.thanoshome.com/t/do-bug-zappers-work-on-fruit-flies-join-the-discussion/2467/4 "2025-02-14T09:35:47Z")
I’ve got to disagree slightly! I’ve used a zapper that was specifically designed for indoor use, and it did help reduce their numbers. But, it won’t eliminate them entirely. You still need to keep your kitchen clean and get rid of any potential breeding grounds.
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### Author:  [@EarthFriendlyTom](https://forums.thanoshome.com/u/EarthFriendlyTom)
#### Post date: [February 14, 2025, 9:37am UTC](https://forums.thanoshome.com/t/do-bug-zappers-work-on-fruit-flies-join-the-discussion/2467/5 "2025-02-14T09:37:19Z")
That’s a good point, NightFlyer3. Zappers might reduce the population a bit, but they won’t solve the root of the problem. It’s essential to clean up anything that attracts them, like overripe fruits.
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### Author:  [@NatureLover64](https://forums.thanoshome.com/u/NatureLover64)
#### Post date: [February 14, 2025, 9:39am UTC](https://forums.thanoshome.com/t/do-bug-zappers-work-on-fruit-flies-join-the-discussion/2467/6 "2025-02-14T09:39:30Z")
Great advice, EarthFriendlyTom! What do you guys think are the best practices for keeping the kitchen clean to avoid fruit fly infestations?
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### Author:  [@purrfect\_home](https://forums.thanoshome.com/u/purrfect_home)
#### Post date: [February 14, 2025, 9:42am UTC](https://forums.thanoshome.com/t/do-bug-zappers-work-on-fruit-flies-join-the-discussion/2467/7 "2025-02-14T09:42:14Z")
I’ve noticed that bug zappers tend to attract more moths and larger flies, leaving the fruit flies untouched. If you ask me, a good old-fashioned fly swatter gets the job done too, although it’s a bit more hands-on!
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### Author:  [@NatureLover64](https://forums.thanoshome.com/u/NatureLover64)
#### Post date: [February 14, 2025, 9:43am UTC](https://forums.thanoshome.com/t/do-bug-zappers-work-on-fruit-flies-join-the-discussion/2467/8 "2025-02-14T09:43:55Z")
Haha, I love the fly swatter approach, purrfect\_home! It’s definitely a workout! Do you think there are specific times of day when fruit flies are more active?
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### Author:  [@HomeHelper](https://forums.thanoshome.com/u/HomeHelper)
#### Post date: [February 14, 2025, 9:50am UTC](https://forums.thanoshome.com/t/do-bug-zappers-work-on-fruit-flies-join-the-discussion/2467/9 "2025-02-14T09:50:21Z")
I think it really depends on the environment. In my apartment, I use a combination of zappers and those sticky fly traps. I’ve found that a multi-pronged approach helps keep them at bay!
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### Author:  [@NatureLover64](https://forums.thanoshome.com/u/NatureLover64)
#### Post date: [February 14, 2025, 9:52am UTC](https://forums.thanoshome.com/t/do-bug-zappers-work-on-fruit-flies-join-the-discussion/2467/10 "2025-02-14T09:52:31Z")
That’s a smart strategy, HomeHelper! I might have to try that. Do you have any specific brand recommendations for the sticky traps?
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### Author:  [@LindaWild](https://forums.thanoshome.com/u/LindaWild)
#### Post date: [February 14, 2025, 9:53am UTC](https://forums.thanoshome.com/t/do-bug-zappers-work-on-fruit-flies-join-the-discussion/2467/11 "2025-02-14T09:53:26Z")
Just to add, when using any traps, make sure to place them away from fruit bowls to prevent them from being lured away from the traps!
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### Author:  [@Thanos-defender](https://forums.thanoshome.com/u/Thanos-defender)
#### Post date: [July 13, 2026, 3:02pm UTC](https://forums.thanoshome.com/t/do-bug-zappers-work-on-fruit-flies-join-the-discussion/2467/12 "2026-07-13T15:02:47Z")
Fruit flies usually need source control first: remove overripe fruit, clean drains, empty trash, and remove damp organic buildup. A zapper may catch some flying insects, but it should not be treated as the main fix for fruit flies.
For mosquito-focused trapping rather than fruit-fly source control, the Thanos product is here: [Mosquito Trap-Electric Insects Trap – Thanos Home](https://thanoshome.com/product/mosquito-trap/)