How to Get Rid of Drain Flies in Miami

Drain flies are tiny, pesky insects that seem to appear out of thin air and can quickly become a nuisance in your home. Commonly found in kitchens and bathrooms, these small flies will multiply rapidly if left unchecked.

The warm summer months can make drain flies in Miami especially difficult to deal with. That's why we've made this guide to help you identify and get rid of drain flies naturally.

What Are Drain Flies?

Drain flies are tiny, creatures that are commonly found buzzing around drains, sewers, and damp areas in homes and other buildings. Despite their small size, their presence can quickly become a bothersome issue for homeowners.

Drain flies breed and thrive in the organic matter that accumulates in drains, though they can also use decaying matter in trash cans to make their homes. Understanding the biology and behavior of drain flies is important for effective removal and prevention.

What Do Drain Flies Look Like?

Drain flies - also known as moth flies or sewer flies - are tiny insects measuring between two to four millimeters in length. They sport a fuzzy appearance with a pair of wings that are covered in fine hair, giving them a moth-like look.

Their bodies are typically a mottled dark gray or tan in color, and they have distinctive veined wings. They don't have strong wings muscles compared to other flies, and prefer to move by hopping or running. When at rest, drain flies often hold their wings in a characteristic roof-like position.

Drain fly activity picks up at the beginning of spring and peaks in late summer, so the warmer months might mean an uptick in sightings in your home.

Are Drain Flies Harmful?

Thankfully, drain flies aren't capable of transmitting diseases to humans. However, their presence can indicate underlying issues with hygiene and sanitation in your home.

Drain flies breed in the organic matter that accumulates in drains, which can include decaying food particles, grease, and soap scum. If left untreated, these sites can also become a breeding ground for other pests and bacteria, leading to potential health concerns over time.

Do Drain Flies Bite?

No, drain flies don't bite. Their main focus is on finding moist areas to lay their eggs and feed on organic matter.

While drain flies might not directly harm you, their presence can be quite an annoyance. Taking action to eliminate them is good practice for maintaining a clean and hygienic living environment.

Drain Flies vs. Fruit Flies

Drain flies are often confused with fruit flies due to their similar size and appearance. However, the two require different pest control methods, so it's important to be able to identify the differences between them.

Fruit flies are attracted to overripe or decaying fruits and vegetables, while drain flies are more interested in the moist organic matter found in drains. Visually speaking, fruit flies have bright red eyes while drain flies don’t, and their bodies lack drain flies' distinctive fur.

You'll also want to pay close attention to where you're seeing fly activity. Are they staying close to the fruit bowl on your counter, or are they spending more time in your bathroom?

If you're unsure whether the flies you're seeing are coming from a drain, place tape over the drain for twenty-four hours. Afterwards, remove the tape and check for any flies that got stuck while trying to emerge.

How to Get Rid of Drain Flies Naturally

Now that we have a better understanding of these pests, it's time to go over some natural and effective methods to get rid of drain flies.

Clean and Sanitize

The first step in getting rid of drain flies is to eliminate their breeding grounds. Regularly clean and sanitize your drains using a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. Pour this mixture down the drain, followed by hot water, to break down the organic matter that attracts drain flies.

Boiling Water

Boil a pot of water and carefully pour it down the drain. The heat will help dislodge and flush away debris that serves as a breeding site for drain flies. Make sure to let the water cool for a few seconds beforehand, as temperatures above 140ºF can damage most pipes.

Bio Drain Gel

Consider using a natural bio drain gel. These gels contain enzymes that break down organic matter and help prevent drain fly infestations. Bio drain gels are eco-friendly and can be effective in reducing breeding sites.

Drain Traps

Installing drain traps or strainers over your drains can prevent organic matter from accumulating and provide a barrier against drain flies. Just make sure to regularly empty out the strainer, or else drain flies might make that their new breeding site - I'm speaking from experience!

Essential Oils

Essential oils like citrus, eucalyptus, or tea tree oil, can repel drain flies. Mix a few drops of your chosen oil with water and spray it near drains and breeding areas.

Homemade Traps

Once you've cleared out your drains to prevent future fly breeding, it's time to focus on getting rid of the flies that are already in your home. Create a simple trap by mixing apple cider vinegar with a few drops of dish soap in a bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and poke a few holes in it. The scent will attract the flies, and they'll get trapped in the soapy liquid.

Regular Maintenance

Prevent future infestations by maintaining good hygiene habits. Keep drains clean, promptly fix leaks, and ensure proper ventilation in areas prone to moisture.

Drain Fly Treatment in Miami

By understanding the habits of drain flies and employing these natural methods, you can effectively get rid of these pesky insects from your home. Remember, the key is to remove their breeding sites and create an environment that's unappealing to them.

However, if your drain fly problem persists, it may be time to consider calling a local pest control company in Miami, FL. Our experts at Native Pest Management use eco-friendly and pet friendly treatments that are highly effective against drain flies and other household pests.

Call us today to get started!