Drain Fly
Psychodidae
Small fuzzy flies that breed in clogged drains, sink traps, and stagnant water — a clear signal of hidden sanitation issues.

Know the Drain Fly
Size
1.5–5 mm
Appearance
Grayish to dark brown, fuzzy and moth-like with a unique leaf-pattern on the wings.
Wings
Broad, oval, covered in fine hairs; folded over the body at rest.
Feeding
Feeds on organic debris and microbial films inside drains, traps, and damp organic buildup.
Behavior
Weak fliers that hover near drains. Mostly active at night and stay close to their breeding source. They do not bite or sting.
Habitat
Clogged drains, septic tanks, sewer lines, sink traps, shower drains, and any spot with stagnant water — kitchens, bathrooms, basements.
Signs of Infestation
- Small moth-like flies near sinks, showers, or floor drains
- Slimy organic film around drain openings
- Fly activity that returns despite cleaning surfaces
Health & Property Risks
While they don't bite, drain flies can transfer bacteria from unsanitary breeding sites onto food and surfaces.
A.I.R. Framework for Drain Fly
Every drain fly engagement follows our proven three-step methodology — tailored precisely to this pest.
Assess
Locate every breeding site — drains, traps, septic lines — and gauge infestation severity.
Implement
Apply enzyme-based drain cleaners, mechanically remove organic buildup, and treat plumbing voids.
Review
Re-inspect drains weekly and maintain a sanitation schedule to prevent recurrence.
Drain Fly Questions Answered
The most common things people ask us about drain fly — straight from years of fieldwork.
More Flying Insects
Identify and learn about pests that share habits, habitats, or treatment approaches.
FlyingHouse Fly
The classic disease-spreading household pest
A common gray fly with sponging mouthparts that lands on food, waste, and surfaces — a major mechanical vector of bacterial disease.
FlyingFruit Fly
Tiny hovering flies on overripe produce
Small tan flies with red eyes that breed in fermenting fruit, drains, and sugary residues — capable of explosive population growth.
FlyingPhorid Fly
The humpbacked drain dweller
A small humpbacked fly that runs more than it flies, breeding in decay and posing a contamination risk in food and healthcare settings.
Ready to Protect Your Space?
Choose Urban Pest Solution for comprehensive, technology-driven pest control. Our A.I.R approach makes us the ideal partner for a pest-free environment.