What are Drain Flies?

Drain flies, also known as moth flies or sewer gnats, are small insects often seen resting on bathroom or kitchen walls near sinks, tubs, and drains. They measure about 1.5 to 5 millimeters in length and are covered in fine hairs that give them a fuzzy, moth-like appearance. Despite their weak flight, these flies are persistent and can multiply quickly in homes and businesses. Their primary breeding sites are drains and areas with stagnant water where organic matter builds up.

Signs of Drain Fly Infestation

You may have a drain fly infestation if you notice:

• Small, fuzzy-looking flies resting on bathroom or kitchen walls near drains
• Flies hovering around sinks, showers, or floor drains
• A musty smell coming from drains due to organic buildup
• Increased activity after plumbing leaks or flooding
• Tiny larvae visible in standing water or inside drain slime

Why They are a Problem

Drain flies are not just a nuisance. While they are not known to bite, they can carry bacteria from drains to food preparation areas, increasing the risk of contamination. Large infestations often point to plumbing issues such as leaks or clogs, which can worsen over time. In businesses like restaurants, hotels, and healthcare facilities, the presence of drain flies can create serious sanitation concerns and harm reputations.

Where Do They Come From?

Drain flies are most often attracted to moist environments where organic matter collects. Common sources include:

• Kitchen sinks, bathroom drains, and floor drains
• Leaking pipes or faulty plumbing
• Slime buildup inside drainpipes
• Standing water from overflows or flooding
• Septic tanks or sewer line leaks

Once established, drain flies can reproduce rapidly, with eggs hatching in as little as 48 hours.

How to Get Rid of Drain Flies at Home

If you are wondering how to get rid of drain flies, here are some practical steps you can try:

• Clean drains thoroughly with a stiff brush to remove organic buildup
• Pour boiling water down drains daily for a week to disrupt breeding sites
• Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to help clean pipes and reduce odors
• Repair plumbing leaks and eliminate standing water sources
• Place sticky traps near areas of activity to monitor infestations

These steps may reduce fly activity temporarily, but infestations often return if the root problem is not addressed. Professional inspection and treatment are usually needed for long-term results.

Drain Flies vs Fruit Flies

Drain flies are often mistaken for fruit flies, but there are clear differences:

• Drain flies have a fuzzy, moth-like body, while fruit flies are smooth and reddish-brown
• Fruit flies are attracted to overripe fruit and sugary liquids, while drain flies prefer drains and moist organic matter
• Drain flies are weak fliers that usually rest on walls, while fruit flies hover actively around food sources

Identifying the correct pest ensures the right treatment method is used.

How We Can Help

At Go Away Pest & Wildlife Control, we specialize in eliminating drain fly infestations at the source. Our experts inspect plumbing, drains, and hidden breeding sites to identify and remove the problem completely. We apply safe, effective treatments tailored to your home or business, preventing future infestations and giving you peace of mind. With our professional approach, you can stop battling recurring flies and enjoy a clean, pest-free environment.