DIY Zone: Why Flushing Out Your Drains Weekly Helps Keep Pests Away
That gurgling sound coming from your sink? It might not just be a plumbing issue—it could be a breeding ground for pests.
While we often think of drains as “clean enough,” the truth is, they’re a warm, moist, organic-rich environment. That makes them the perfect place for pests like drain flies, fruit flies, and even cockroaches to settle in and multiply—often without you even knowing.
Luckily, there’s a super simple DIY step that can make a real difference: weekly drain flushing.
What Are Drain Flies, and Why Do They Love Your Sink?
Drain flies (also called moth flies or sewer gnats) are small, fuzzy-looking insects that breed in the organic gunk that builds up in slow drains, garbage disposals, and shower pipes.
They lay eggs in the sticky film inside your pipes, and those eggs can hatch into hundreds of larvae—which means one minor buildup can turn into a full-on infestation fast.
Other moisture-loving pests like cockroaches and fungus gnats also take advantage of these environments.
The DIY Fix: Weekly Drain Flushing
No harsh chemicals or fancy tools needed—just a little consistency.
Here’s how to flush your drains effectively:
Boil a kettle of water
Pour it slowly down the drain (especially in bathrooms, laundry rooms, and rarely-used sinks)
Optional: Follow with a 1:1 baking soda and vinegar mix, let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then rinse with more hot water
Pro Tip: Do this once a week as part of your regular cleaning routine—especially during spring and summer, when fly activity spikes.
Why It Works
Heat and water flush away developing larvae and disrupt breeding cycles
Vinegar and baking soda break up biofilm and eliminate organic buildup
Consistency prevents buildup from forming in the first place
It’s not a full pest control solution, but it’s a smart, simple step that helps reduce hidden food and breeding sources—especially when paired with professional treatment.
Where to Watch for Problems
Even if your kitchen sink looks clean, don’t forget about:
Guest bathrooms
Utility sinks
Garage or outdoor drains
Floor drains in laundry rooms
Slow or unused drains (prime spots for gunk to settle)
If you start seeing tiny flies hovering around your sink or drain area, that’s your cue to act fast.
Flushing out your drains weekly might seem like a small chore—but it goes a long way in preventing some of the nastiest pest problems from forming right under your nose.
Stay ahead of the problem with simple DIY habits like this one—and if the bugs keep coming back, Paragon Pest Control is always here to step in with professional solutions.