How to Get Rid of Drain and Fruit Flies

 

In this guide, we'll delve into the world of drain flies and fruit flies, exploring effective methods to eliminate them and prevent their return.

Flies buzzing around your home can be downright irritating. They invade your space, hover around your food, and spread unwanted germs. Among these pesky intruders, drain flies are a common nuisance often found in kitchens, bathrooms, other damp areas.

However, drain flies are not the only pests that will assume control of your sink. Fruit flies are also attracted to decaying food that gets stuck in your drain pipe and will lay their eggs there. This causes gunk to accumulate.

Understanding Drain Flies

A drain fly is a small insect with a fuzzy, dark body similar to that of a moth. Despite its small size, it is able to reproduce rapidly. A female drain fly can lay as many as 300 eggs in as little as 48 hours! Drain flies feed on the bacteria, algae, and sewage in your pipes' standing water.

Fruit Flies: Another Culprit

Fruit flies can also infest your home, drawn to overripe fruits and vegetables. They lay their eggs in the decaying organic matter that collects in your sink drains when you wash your dishes.

Effective Methods for Elimination

1. Thoroughly clean your sink and drain using your preferred cleaning agent. Use a drain brush to scrub the area, then flush with hot water.
2. Combine 1/2 cup salt, 1 cup baking soda, and 1 cup vinegar and pour that down your drain. Let it soak overnight. Pour boiling water down the drain the following morning. Follow that with another cup of vinegar or bleach to sanitize the area.

You may also create your own organic fly trap. Fill a bowl with apple cider vinegar and cover it with plastic wrap. Poke small holes in the wrap so that the flies can be lured in but not escape. You can also pour a solution of apple cider vinegar and dish soap into a shallow dish. The vinegar will attract the flies and trap them in the dish soap. An alternative is to simply seal off your drain for a few nights with duct tape to trap the flies.

Preventing Future Infestations

The best way to stop drain flies from coming back is to clean your pipes regularly with water or a cleaning solution. If you have drains that aren’t used often, use a stopper to keep flies away.

Dealing with drain flies and fruit flies can be a frustrating experience, but with the right approach, you can eliminate these pests and prevent their recurrence. By maintaining cleanliness, addressing stagnant water sources, and using effective elimination methods, you can reclaim your home from these bothersome insects. However, if your situation proves to be too overwhelming, don't hesitate to seek assistance from a professional pest control company, who can offer expert guidance and solutions tailored to your specific needs.