If you notice small, rounded-winged flies in the bathroom area, near the shower or kitchen sink, there is probably a Psychodidae infestation in the drain. These flies reproduce in the organic matter trapped inside the drains, so to eliminate the infestation just cleaning the pipes. Here's how to proceed!
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Identify the Problem
Step 1. Identify the areas where the infestation is present
Examine all drains, both inside and outside the home. The presence of flies indicates where the problem starts.
Fortunately, Psychodidae do not stray too far from the place where they spawn, so it is rare for the infestation to spread to other areas of the house, especially if you intervene promptly
Step 2. Dry all drains before going to bed
This is the first thing to do to check which exhaust the problem is starting from.
It is not necessarily a Psychodidae infestation. They could be different types of flies, born from rotten fruit or other types of foods, so check your drains carefully before proceeding
Step 3. Put some clear tape over each drain
Place it in the center, with the glue down.
Don't close the drain completely, otherwise the flies won't be able to fly outside and you won't get any evidence
Step 4. Check the discharge in the morning or after a few days
If you notice any flies on the duct tape, it is Psychodidae.
Even if you don't find any flies on the duct tape after the first night, you should repeat this for at least another 3-4 nights so that the larvae have time to develop
Method 2 of 4: Destroy the Playback Environment
Step 1. Clean the net to collect the hair, if present
Remove any residue from the retina or filter. Wash them thoroughly, removing all trapped hair.
The most effective secret to eliminating the infestation is to deprive the flies of their reproductive environment, which is the hair, dirt and debris in which they lay their eggs
Step 2. Rinse the drain
Pour 4 to 8 liters of boiling water down the drain to moisten it.
This step is only necessary if the drain is not used often. Generally, they are quite humid and there is no need to throw any more water
Step 3. Use a metal brush
Rotate the brush in the hose, moving it up and down, in order to remove the dirt present in the drain
Step 4. Pull off other debris with a flexible metal cable
Insert it into the drain and rotate it inside the pipes to grab the lumps of debris and grime stuck further down.
Step 5. Pour a gel pipe cleaning product down the drain
Follow the directions on the package.
- Pour it from the edge of the drain, so it sticks to the walls of the plumbing as it slides down.
- These products are designed to eliminate organic matter. You can also use enzymatic or bactericidal products.
- Vinegar, boiling water, and bleach are traditionally used remedies for this type of infestation, however experts believe they are not effective.
- Baking soda and vinegar poured down the drain can kill flies; or at least they will clean the drain.
- It is advisable to repeat the cleaning with the specific detergent once a day for 5 or 7 days.
Step 6. Complete the cleaning with a plunger
After leaving the cleaner in the drain for several hours, run it off with the water. Use a plunger to remove any organic residue trapped in the sink.
Method 3 of 4: Kill the Adult Flies
Step 1. Use a flytrap to kill adult flies
Eliminate everything you find in the contaminated area.
Even if you destroy the environment in which they breed, you will find adult flies for another 20 days. So, try to get rid of as many flies as possible
Step 2. Use a room spray
If the flytrap isn't effective enough, use a spray insecticide.
- Close doors and windows.
- Spray the insecticide upwards for 5-8 seconds every 305 cubic meters.
- Exit immediately and lock the room for 15 minutes or more.
- Open doors and windows. Leave to ventilate. Turn on a few fans to disperse the insecticide more easily.
- Repeat this once a week.
Method 4 of 4: Maintenance and Prevention
Step 1. Keep the drains clean
You should clean the drains at least once a month, but if you've already had problems with flies, it's best to switch to once or twice a week.
- It is not necessary to clean thoroughly. One dose of the tube product is enough. Follow the instructions on the package.
- For drains that are rarely used, for example in a garage or basement, pour some mineral oil down the drain. This will prevent further infestation until water is poured into it.
Step 2. Use a product to regulate insect growth
Spray it into the drain and along the pipes.
