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What Causes Drain Flies?

Drain flies are known for sneaking into homes and hanging out near drains. When these flies get established in houses, they multiply quickly, which can lead to large infestations. Knowing what attracts drain flies to your home will make it easier to prevent and control an infestation. We’ve made a list of things that can cause drain flies to infest your space.  

Stagnant Water

Mop and bucket

Drain flies can be found in areas with moisture build-up. These flies need stagnant water to breed. Clogged or slow drains provide drain flies with standing water. Plumbing leaks can lead to moisture build-up in your home. These pests are also attracted to water that accumulates in buckets, plant dishes, and other items. Minimizing water build-up and keeping things as dry as possible will help to deter drain flies.

Organic Matter

Sink drain

In addition to stagnant water, organic matter also needs to be present for drain flies to breed. Adult flies lay eggs in this organic debris. When the larvae hatch, they will live in and feed on the scum found in the drains. Food particles and grease can create ideal breeding spots in drains and pipes. An accumulation of soap residue and hair can also be attractive to drain flies. Keeping your drains clean will help to prevent drain fly infestations.

Trash Cans & Compost Bins

Trash can

Adult drain flies may also be attracted to your trash cans and compost bins because they can feed on the food or decaying matter. Your trash can will be more attractive to drain flies if there is an accumulation of food residues or spills. Compost bins with excessive moisture are most attractive to drain flies. Moisture left in the bottom of trash bins can attract these flies too. Regularly taking out your trash and keeping the can clean can help you avoid these pests.  

Easy Entry Points 

Screen

For drain flies and other pests to infest homes, they have to find a way inside. If drain flies can find a way into your house and other attractants are present, they will quickly settle down. Tears in screens can give these flies access to your home. Leaving your doors and windows open without screens can allow drain flies inside too. Drain flies can also squeeze in through small gaps and cracks. Sealing entry points will make it harder for these pests to invade your house.

Having drain flies bugging your drains isn’t an ideal situation. Minimizing attractants and keeping your drains clean will help to prevent these pests. If you’re dealing with a drain fly problem, our plant-based Drain & Fruit Fly Killer can help! It kills drain flies at the source and also helps to repel flies from laying eggs in drains.


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