Of all the drain insects that you might discover scurrying or buzzing around in your bathroom, drain flies, which are also called "moth flies," are among the most common. They can also be persistent pests. However, there are preventive measures that you can take to help keep them from establishing a presence in your home in the first place.
Drain fly prevention starts with vigilance — and a little old-fashioned elbow grease. Any areas rich in wet organic materials, like kitchen waste, can attract drain flies. Drain fly larvae (young) in particular require wet organic material. They are also surprisingly hardy and can survive being completely submerged for 24 hours or more.
Your drain fly removal and/or prevention strategy should begin with eliminating any areas of standing water in infested areas. Next, make sure to keep your drains sanitary with monthly cleaning. That also includes cleaning your garbage disposal unit and not allowing food waste to accumulate in your sink.
Additionally, make sure you check and clean other areas where drain flies have been known to congregate, such as drain pans under your air conditioner unit and fridge, flood drains in basements or any outdoor areas where you know rainwater tends to collect.
What Are Drain Flies?
While they are also known as moth flies, drain flies are not moths. They are flies that measure about one-fourth an inch in length. Often black, grey or dark brown, their bodies and wings are both covered with hair, causing them to resemble moths.
Drain flies will infest bathrooms and kitchens, all of which provide the moisture and organic matter (such as hair) that they need to breed and mature.
Also, drain flies are not particularly adept fliers. Instead, they often appear to be hopping. Due to their somewhat limited mobility, drain flies tend to congregate in a single location near their breeding sites — including drains. They can also reproduce quickly, with females laying up to 200 eggs at a time.
Drain fly adults are nocturnal, though you may see them resting on the wall during the day. They will fly away if you attempt to hit or brush them off the surface.
How to Help Get Rid of a Drain Fly Problem
Eliminating standing water and keeping your kitchen and bathroom as sanitary as possible can help prevent both adult drain flies and drain fly larvae from finding your home hospitable. However, should you find yourself overwhelmed with drain flies, or you want professional help from the start, contact the professionals. Give Terminix® a call today to learn more about our pest control solutions.
