See those little insects that seem to appear out of nowhere? They hover around drains and other damp areas, but do you know what they are? You can get rid of them with these simple tips.

These little insects are also known as sink flies or moth flies, and they are different from many pests you may be used to seeing. Although they are not harmful, they can quickly become an unsightly and unhygienic problem if left unchecked.

What are drain flies?

Drain flies are small moth-like insects that typically measure around 1.5 to 5 mm in length. They have a fuzzy appearance because their bodies and wings are covered in hair-like hairs. One of their most recognizable characteristics is their irregular flight pattern.

Drain flies are usually found near standing water or organic matter. They thrive in humid environments, making them a common occurrence in bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas with drains.

These insects feed on organic matter that accumulates in pipes, such as soap scum, hair or other debris. Although they do not bite or transmit disease, their presence may indicate an underlying drainage problem.

Are drain flies fruit flies?

While drain flies are often confused with fruit fliesthey are two different species. Fruit flies are generally attracted to rotting fruits and vegetables and lay their eggs on this organic matter. In contrast, drain flies are attracted to moist environments and organic sludge found in drains.

Fruit flies are slightly smaller and have smooth, hairless bodies, while drain flies have a fuzzy, moth-like appearance. Additionally, fruit flies are usually found near exposed food or waste, while drain flies are more commonly seen near drains, sinks, and areas with excess moisture.

Knowing the difference between the two species is important because it helps determine the best method to get rid of them. While the presence of fruit flies can often be resolved by removing overripe produce and cleaning surfaces, drain flies require a different approach focused on removing buildup in drains and pipes.

Where do drain flies come from?

Drain flies emerge from areas of standing water and decaying organic matter. They usually breed in sewers, septic tanks and other similar places. In homes, they are typically found in bathroom and kitchen drains, but they can also be found around garbage disposals, sump pumps, or other damp areas.

Drain flies lay their eggs in organic buildup found inside pipes or drains. These eggs hatch into larvae that feed on debris in the drain. Once the larvae become adult flies, they begin to emerge from the drain looking for new places to breed. This life cycle can occur relatively quickly, allowing the drain fly population to grow rapidly if nothing is done about it.

How to get rid of drain flies

Getting rid of drain flies involves cleaning and maintenance, often using insecticides or natural remedies. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you eliminate these pests from your home.

Clean your pipes

The first step to getting rid of drain flies is to clean the drains thoroughly. Since drain flies lay their eggs in the organic matter inside the drain, you need to remove this buildup to eliminate the breeding ground. Use a stiff brush or drain cleaner to remove gunk and debris.

Pouring hot water down the drain can also help loosen any organic matter. For more stubborn build-ups, consider using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Pour about half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by half a cup of vinegar. Let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes before flushing the drain with hot water.

Use a draining gel or enzymatic cleanser

Enzymatic cleaners are designed to break down organic matter in drains, making them an effective solution for removing flies from drains. These cleaners contain natural bacteria or enzymes that digest debris clogging pipes, eliminating the food source for sewer fly larvae.

You can apply an enzymatic cleaner or draining gel overnight, allowing it to work on the buildup in the pipes. For best results, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Traps adult drain flies

Although drain cleaning addresses the breeding ground, it is also important to eliminate adult drain flies already present. You can make simple traps at home using materials like vinegar or sugar water.

Fill a small dish with apple cider vinegar or sugar water and cover it with plastic wrap, poking small holes in the top. Flies will be attracted to the solution, enter the trap and drown.

“Whenever we experience drain flies, I place a bowl of funky apple cider vinegar next to the drain with a squirt of dish soap added. This mixture does a great job of attracting and trapping insects. Usually they are all trapped in one day!

—Michelle Goth, Blackberry Baby

Alternatively, sticky fly traps can be placed near drains to catch adult drain flies. Both of these methods work for both fruit flies and drain flies.

Check for leaks and standing water

Drain flies thrive in areas where there is standing water, so inspect your home for leaks and moisture buildup. Look for leaking faucets, cracked pipes, or slow-draining sinks, and repair these problems quickly.

Make sure areas around the sink, bathtub or shower are dry and avoid leaving wet towels or cleaning sponges near the sink. If you have exterior drains, gutters or poorly drained areas, be sure to clear them of debris and standing water to prevent drain flies from breeding.

Are there natural remedies for drain flies?

If you want to avoid chemical cleaners or insecticides, several natural remedies can help you control drain flies. As noted, baking soda and vinegar can help remove organic buildup in pipes. Additionally, you can use a mixture of boiling water and salt to flush the pipes and eliminate the larvae.

Essential oils like peppermint or eucalyptus are also known to repel drain flies. Mix a few drops of essential oil with water in a spray bottle and use it to treat areas around the sink or drain.

For persistent infestations, consider using a empty to eliminate adult flies from the area. Be sure to empty the vacuum bag or canister quickly to prevent further infestation.

Now that you know what to do, go face them

Drain flies are a common household nuisance, but they can be effectively eliminated with the right approach. Thoroughly cleaning your pipes helps remove organic matter that attracts these pests. Your efforts should be consistent, whether you use enzymatic cleaners, natural remedies, or a combination of both.

Michelle Price is a food and travel writer at Honest and sincere who almost has an empty nest. She loves providing you with both the inspiration and confidence you need to get you started in the kitchen and on the road enjoying new flavors and experiences.