Drain flies are a type of small fly that can infest drains in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. Not only are these pests a nuisance, they can also contaminate surfaces and food. Infestations can grow quickly, so it’s important to take steps to keep these pests away. Thankfully, there are things you can do to eliminate an infestation. We’ve gathered information to help you get rid of drain flies.
How to Identify Drain Flies
Adult drain flies are small, growing between 1/16"-1/4" in length. They have a grayish-brown, hairy body that resembles a moth. Larvae have a worm-like appearance and are whitish-brown with a dark strip on their back. Drain flies can be found near drains or resting on walls and surfaces near the infested drain. They are weak fliers, so you’re more likely to find them resting than flying around. When resting, they fold their wings over their body. Infestations can sometimes cause an unpleasant musty odor near breeding sites.
How to Get Rid of Drain Flies
To control a drain fly problem, you need to remove the organic matter and moisture that create ideal breeding spots and food sources for these flies. Check out a few tips to help kick drain flies out of your home.
Eliminate Stagnant Water
Drain flies thrive in areas with moisture build-up. Removing sources of stagnant water can help to prevent and control these pests.
- Clogged or slow drains can create the right environment for drain flies to breed, so you’ll want to make sure your drains are working properly.
- Address any plumbing leaks and dripping faucets.
- Mop buckets and other items that hold water can attract these pests, so empty them after using.
- Wipe down sinks, tubs, and showers to help keep them dry. Don’t forget to keep your counters and floor dry too.
Clean Your Drains
Drain flies are attracted to the organic matter found in drains. Keeping your drains clean will help to stop flies from breeding and living in your drains.
- You can use a metal scrub brush to clean the drains and remove organic debris.
- You’ll also want to use a microbial cleaner in your drains. These cleaners have microbes that digest the organic debris and scum where flies breed and live.
- Using a drain strainer and emptying it frequently can help to keep food particles out of your kitchen sink drain.
- You can also use a drain cover in bathroom sinks, tubs, and showers to keep debris from getting in the drain.
Treat Your Drains
To get rid of drain flies, you can treat your drains with a plant-based insecticide. Our Drain & Fruit Fly Killer kills adult drain flies, larvae, and eggs. It also provides residual repellency protection that will help to prevent adult flies from laying eggs in the drain.
- To treat the drain, pour 1-2 oz of the product into it. For garbage disposals, apply 2 oz.
- Apply around the edges of the drain, allowing the thickened formula to coat the sides of the drain.
- Avoid using the drain for at least one hour after treatment or allow it to sit overnight when possible.
- If treating an infrequently used drain, pour 1-2 quarts of water into the drain before applying our Drain & Fruit Fly Killer.
Take Steps to Prevent Future Infestations
After eliminating an infestation, you’ll want to take steps to make sure new infestations don’t start.
- Minimizing moisture build-up and regularly cleaning your drains will help to prevent infestations.
- Keep your bathroom and kitchen clean, removing trash frequently.
- You’ll also want to seal potential entry points such as cracks or holes where drain flies could sneak inside.
- Don’t forget to check your window and door screens for tears and repair any you find.
Dealing with drain flies can be frustrating. Taking the time to remove attractants and treating your drains will help to get rid of these pests. If drain flies or other bugs have invaded your home, we have your back! Check out our Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective™ Pest Control products for a more environmentally and family-friendly solution.