How to Get Rid of Drain Flies

If you’ve noticed tiny, fuzzy flies hovering around your sinks, showers, or drains, you might be dealing with an infestation of drain flies (also called sewer flies or moth flies). They may be small, but they can multiply fast and quickly become a nasty nuisance. Fortunately, you don’t need a professional exterminator to fix this. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to get rid of drain flies, and keep them gone for good.

🦟 What Are Drain Flies?

Drain flies are small, moth-like insects that thrive in the slimy, organic buildup that collects in drains, pipes, and garbage disposals. While they don’t bite or spread disease, their presence signals poor sanitation and can lead to a larger infestation if not treated quickly. They’re usually gray or black, fuzzy, and only about 1/8 inch long.

🔍 How Do You Know You Have Drain Flies?

The easiest way to identify a drain fly problem is by:

Spotting them around sinks, tubs, or floor drains
Seeing them emerge when water runs
Noticing them stuck to walls nearby

To test: place a piece of clear tape (sticky side down) over the drain overnight. In the morning, if flies are stuck to the tape, you’ve found the breeding ground.

🚿 Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get Rid of Drain Flies

1. Boiling Water Flush

The easiest and fastest method—pour boiling water down the drain twice daily for at least a week. This kills larvae and loosens grime.

2. Use a Drain Gel Cleaner

Look for enzyme-based or foaming drain gels that cling to pipe walls and break down biofilm.

🛒 ENZYME BASED DRAIN CLEANER

3. Scrub Inside the Drain

Use a pipe brush or plumbing snake to physically remove gunk. Pair this with your cleaner for best results.

🛒 | LONG HANDLE PIPE BRUSH FOR CLEANING

4. Use Baking Soda + Vinegar

Pour 1/2 cup baking soda followed by 1 cup vinegar. Let it fizz and sit for 1 hour, then flush with hot water. Repeat every other day for a week.

5. Trap Adult Flies

While killing the larvae is key, you also want to trap the adults. You can:

Set a bowl with equal parts apple cider vinegar and dish soap as a DIY trap
Use sticky fly traps SUPER STICKY FLY TRAPS

6. Consider a Drain Cover or Plug

Use a fine mesh drain cover to block future entry.

🛒 FINE MESH DISPOSABLE DRAIN COVER

🧼 Prevent Future Infestations

Once your drains are clear, it’s easier to keep them that way with weekly maintenance:

Flush with hot water regularly
Clean stoppers and strainers
Pour enzyme cleaner once a week
Reduce moisture around sinks and tubs

📺 Watch and Learn

Sometimes seeing is believing. Here’s a video that shows exactly how to inspect your drains, clean them thoroughly, and stop drain flies from returning.
🎥 HOW TO GET RID OF DRAIN FLIES IN 5 EASY STEPS

✅ Final Thoughts

Drain flies are annoying and they’re also big red flag indicator that your drains need attention. Luckily, with a bit of persistence and the right tools, you can wipe them out fast. Whether you go full DIY or grab an enzyme gel from Amazon, the best way to get rid of drain flies is consistency. Don’t let them turn your sink into a breeding ground. Act now—and keep your home fly-free.

Have more gross questions?
Explore the rest of our HOW TO GET RID OF BLOG for more pest-purging guides and clever hacks.