How to Get Rid of Drain Flies

It’s happened to all of us. You walk into the kitchen and are suddenly met with a swarm of small flies hovering around your sink. Drain flies are common pests that can be found lurking in drains all year round, but they become especially active during the warmer months. But when you’re met with an infestation, don’t panic. There are ways to get rid of them without harsh chemicals.

What Are Drain Flies?

First things first, you’ll want to make sure that you’re dealing with drain flies. Drain flies are small, non-biting insects with moth-like wings and a body of 1/8 inch. Also known as “sewer flies” or “filter flies,” they are common in bathrooms, kitchens and other areas where water is present.
Drain flies have a unique life cycle. The larvae can be found living in standing water and organic material that has collected inside your pipes or drains. They are common in homes and restaurants, particularly areas with poor ventilation or standing water. They are attracted to rotting food, organic matter, and other waste products, which can accumulate in drains and pipes if not properly cleaned.

How Do They Get Into Your Home?

Drain flies can enter your home through several methods. If there is an opening or crack near your drains, this can serve as an entry point. Additionally, drain flies can gain access inside your home through vent pipes or other openings in the plumbing system.
Drain flies have a unique life cycle. The larvae can be found living in standing water and organic material that has collected inside your pipes or drains. They are common in homes and restaurants, particularly areas with poor ventilation or standing water. They are attracted to rotting food, organic matter, and other waste products, which can accumulate in drains and pipes if not properly cleaned.

Why They Live in Your Drains

Drain flies prefer dark, moist environments. The inside of drain pipes is the perfect place for them to breed and lay their eggs since they provide the damp conditions these pests need to survive.
The larvae feed on organic matter like grease, food particles, soap scum, and hair that have built up over time in the drain pipes. As the larvae mature, they transform into adult flies and look for food sources such as fungus or other organic matter outside the drains before returning to reproduce.

Signs of a Drain Fly Infestation

If you notice small, winged insects around your drains and sinks, you may have a drain fly infestation on your hands. These tiny pests can be frustrating and may indicate an underlying issue in your plumbing.
Here are some common signs of a drain fly infestation to look out for:
  • Seeing adult flies: Drain flies are small and often mistaken for fruit flies or gnats. They are typically about 1/8 inch long and have a fuzzy appearance.
  • Finding larvae: Drain fly larvae are small, white worms that can be found in the gunk and slime that accumulates in drains, pipes, and garbage disposals.
  • Smelling a musty odor: If you notice a musty or earthy odor in your kitchen or bathroom, it could be a sign of a drain fly infestation. The smell is caused by the decaying organic matter that the flies feed on.
  • Seeing dark spots on walls or ceilings: Because of where they breed, they may leave dark spots on walls or ceilings as the larvae mature and move away from the breeding site.

How to Get Rid of Drain Flies

Drain flies are often challenging to find and eliminate because they can breed in hard-to-reach areas, like inside your drains or pipes, and they can lay a large number of eggs. There are several ways to eliminate drain flies, although working with a professional is often the best course. They will use a variety of methods to deal with the problem, including the use of:
  • Drain Snakes – Drain snakes can physically remove clogs, debris, and organic matter from the pipes. This helps destroy drain flies’ breeding grounds and disrupt their life cycle.
  • Metal Pipe Brushes – Metal pipe brushes are also used to remove blockages and organic matter from pipes as well as clean the walls of the pipes. This can effectively eliminate or remove potential food sources for the flies and larvae.
  • Baking Soda, Salt, and Vinegar – Mixing baking soda, salt, and vinegar together can create an effective natural drain cleaner.

How to Prevent Them From Coming Back

Once you’ve eliminated the drain fly infestation, it’s important to take preventative measures to ensure they don’t come back. Here are a few ways to help keep your drains free from pests:
  1. Maintain Your Drains – Check your drains regularly for any signs of blockage, buildup, or organic matter. Clean them thoroughly with a metal brush or snake and flush them with hot water.
  2. Regularly Clean Your Home – Keep your home clean of food sources that could attract drain flies, such as fruits and vegetables. Make sure to wipe down countertops, sinks, and other areas frequently.
  3. Use Natural Insecticides – Utilize natural insecticides like diatomaceous earth or neem oil to help keep drain flies away. These substances are highly effective, safe for pets and children, and can be purchased online or at your local hardware store.
Don’t let a drain fly infestation take over your home. Call Moore Home Services today to get the help you need.