How To Get Rid Of Outdoor Drain Flies

How to Effectively Eliminate Outdoor Drain Flies

Drain flies, those pesky little insects that hover around drains, can be a nuisance in both indoor and outdoor settings. While they are generally harmless, their presence can be unsightly and unhygienic. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you effectively get rid of outdoor drain flies and prevent them from returning.

Identifying Drain Flies

Drain flies are small, gnat-like flies with a dark gray or black body and clear wings. They are typically about 1/8 inch in length and have a characteristic humpbacked appearance. Drain flies are attracted to moist, organic matter, which is why they often congregate around drains, garbage cans, and other areas where water accumulates.

Eliminating Breeding Grounds

The key to getting rid of drain flies is to eliminate their breeding grounds. Here are some steps to follow:

Clean Outdoor Drains: Regularly clean and flush outdoor drains using a drain cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. This will remove any organic debris that may be attracting flies.
Cover Trash Cans: Keep trash cans sealed tightly to prevent drain flies from accessing decaying food and organic matter.
Remove Standing Water: Eliminate any standing water around your property, such as in birdbaths, clogged gutters, or puddles. Drain or fill such areas to prevent flies from laying eggs.

Trapping and Killing Drain Flies

Once you have eliminated potential breeding grounds, you can trap and kill remaining drain flies using the following methods:

Apple Cider Vinegar Trap: Fill a bowl or jar with apple cider vinegar and cover it with plastic wrap. Poke a few small holes in the plastic to allow flies to enter the trap and get stuck.
Sticky Traps: Place yellow sticky traps near drains and other areas where flies congregate. The bright color of the traps attracts flies, which then get stuck on the adhesive surface.
Flypaper: Hang flypaper in areas where flies are a problem. The sticky substance on the paper traps flies effectively.

Preventing Future Infestations

To prevent drain flies from returning, follow these tips:

Regular Maintenance: Regularly clean and maintain outdoor drains to prevent debris accumulation.
Use Drain Covers: Install drain covers to prevent flies from entering drains.
Keep Areas Dry: Keep outdoor areas as dry as possible to discourage drain flies from laying eggs.
Inspect Plants: Inspect outdoor plants regularly for signs of overwatering and remove any decaying leaves or flowers that may attract flies.

By following these steps, you can effectively get rid of outdoor drain flies and prevent them from becoming a recurring nuisance.