Fruit Flies, Drain Flies, or Fungus Gnats: Identifying The Small Flying Bugs in Your House

If you’re seeing tiny bugs flying around your house, especially near drains, plants, or fruit, you’re likely dealing with one of three common pests: fruit flies, drain flies, or fungus gnats. While these bugs may look alike at first glance, knowing the difference is key to getting rid of them effectively.

Here are some quick and easy tips to help you identify and get rid of some of the most common, and most bothersome, flies

Fruit Flies

Identifying Fruit Flies

There are two common fruit flies — the red-eyed fruit fly and the dark-eyed fruit fly. Both types are brownish-black and have striped abdomens. They are similar in size to house flies but slightly smaller, ranging from ⅛-inch long to 3/16-inch long. Fruit flies are drawn to rotting food, and areas like garbage cans, sink drains, disposals, and compost bins.

Getting Rid of Fruit Flies

The best way to solve your fruit fly problem is to keep your garbage can, sink, or kitchen free of any debris. Wash out food and drink containers, seal trash bins, and take the garbage out often. As their name suggests, fruit flies love fruit! So be sure to place your fruit in the fridge when not eaten immediately, rather than leaving it out on the counter.

To trap fruit flies, set out a small bowl with apple cider vinegar and a drop of dish soap to lure them in.

Drain Flies

Identifying Drain Flies

Drain flies are a little different from fruit flies in that they have hairy bodies and large wings. Think Jeff Goldblum in “The Fly.” Another insect without a creative name, the drain fly loves to linger inside of — you guessed it! — your drain. They thrive in dark, damp conditions, and you can find them in sink or floor drains, or any area with open plumbing.

Getting Rid of Drain Flies

The best way to keep drain flies out of your home is to use an enzyme drain cleaner. A few hours after applying the drain cleaner, flush warm water down the pipe to eliminate sludge. Once your drain is clean, the flies should be gone for good.

Fungus Gnats

 

Identifying Fungus Gnats

If you spot a swarm of bugs flying above a houseplant, chances are you have fungus gnats. These black or brown insects love moist soil, which protects them as they lay eggs and develop. Fungus gnats are a nuisance to your green thumb since they severely damage the root system of potted plants. They fly erratically and look like they may be bouncing around.

Getting Rid of Fungus Gnats

To get rid of fungus gnats, let your plant soil dry out between waterings, this disrupts their life cycle. Use sticky traps to catch adults and consider repotting with fresh, sterile soil if the infestation is severe. You can also water plants with a solution of hydrogen peroxide (1 part 3% hydrogen peroxide to 4 parts water) to kill larvae in the soil.

Let Us Help You With Your Fly Infestation

If these methods don’t prevent fruit flies, drain flies, or fungus gnats from invading your home, it may be time to reach out to the experts. We’re here to help. Call Arrow Exterminators today.