Drain flies are a stubborn household pest that show up around sinks, bathtubs, and drains. These tiny flying insects breed in moist, organic matter that builds up in plumbing and are a nuisance in kitchens and bathrooms. If you've noticed small bugs hovering near your drain, you're not alone. This guide will introduce the top 10 drain fly traps that actually work in 2025, provide real brand recommendations with pricing and platforms, and help you pick the right one to keep your home fly-free. Learn about What Attracts Drain Flies?
What Are Drain Flies and Why You Need a Trap
Drain flies, also known as sewer flies, moth flies, or sink flies, are small, fuzzy, grayish insects that thrive in decaying organic material, especially in drains. While they don’t bite, they multiply rapidly and can be a sign of deeper plumbing issues. The key to managing them is identifying their source and using an effective drain fly trap to eliminate adult flies while addressing the underlying problem.
How to Choose the Best Drain Fly Trap
Before jumping into our top picks, here are a few factors to consider:
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Type of Trap: Options range from sticky pads and UV light traps to chemical-free and natural vinegar-based solutions.
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Location: Some traps work best for bathroom sinks, while others are optimized for kitchen drains or shower stalls.
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Safety: Look for pet safe drain fly killer options if you have animals at home.
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Ease of Use: A good trap should require minimal setup.
Let’s explore the best drain fly trap options based on effectiveness, ease of use, safety, and user reviews.
1. Zevo Flying Insect Trap Starter Kit
Price: $19.98 at Lowe’s, $19.99 at Target
Platform: Amazon
A plug-in UV light trap with adhesive cartridges. It attracts and permanently traps gnats, fruit flies, and drain flies without chemicals or odor. Ideal for kitchen, bathroom, or laundry rooms.
2. Green Gobbler Fruit Fly Goodbye Gel Drain Treatment
Price: ~$13.97 (32 oz)
Platform: Amazon
This thick, citronella-based drain fly killer gel clings to pipes and eliminates both larvae and their food source. It’s pet safe, septic-friendly, and works across kitchen and bathroom drains.
3. Wowcatch JT02 Indoor Fly Trap
Price: $16.14
Platform: wowcatch.com
Best for: Home flies or bugs – Moths, Mosquitoes, Flies, Fruit Flies, Gnats, No-See-Ums, Beetles, Wasps, Yellow Jackets
4. Raid Flying Insect Light Trap
Price: $17.99
Platform: Amazon
Indoor plug-in flying insect trap

5. Safer Home Indoor Plug-In Fly Trap
Price: $11.33
Platform: Amazon
Budget-friendly plug-in trap using LED light and sticky adhesive to catch small insects. Compact and odorless.
6. PremiumBrandGoods Non-Zapper Insect Trap
Price: $42.00
Platform: PremiumBrandGoods
Uses fan suction to trap flying pests including drain flies. Requires a power source but offers 24/7 trapping.
7. KATCHY Indoor Plug-in Insect Trap
Price: $14.99
Platform: Amazon
UV trap for larger homes, includes extended cord and extra coverage.
8. TERRO T2502 Indoor Fruit Fly Trap
Price: $12.99
Platform: Amazon
9. Bell + Howell Monster Zapper
Price: $39.88
Platform: Amazon
Non-caustic gel safe for pipes and septic, effectively kills larvae and repels adult flies.

10. DIY Drain Fly Trap
Price: Under $1 (homemade)
Platform: Store buying kits
This simple, effective DIY drain fly trap can be made using apple cider vinegar and dish soap. Pour the mix into a shallow bowl, cover with plastic wrap (poke holes) or leave uncovered. Place it near any problem drain. The smell attracts drain flies, and the soap traps them by breaking the surface tension.
Ideal for light infestations or as a natural supplement to commercial traps. For added impact, flush drains with boiling water and baking soda before placing the trap.
How to Use a Drain Fly Trap Effectively
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Identify the source: Check all sinks, tubs, and floor drains for signs of fly activity.
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Clean the drain: Use a brush or foaming cleaner to remove gunk and biofilm.
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Apply the trap: Choose from gels, sticky traps, or sprays based on your needs.
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Repeat as needed: Some infestations require a week or more of repeated treatment.
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Prevent re-infestation: Keep drains dry and clean, and treat monthly as a preventive step.
The best drain fly trap depends on your home setup and preferences. For quick results, try a UV light trap or fast-acting gel. For natural remedies, go with homemade drain fly traps like vinegar and soap. If you’re unsure what trap really works for drain flies in your home, choose one of the top-reviewed Amazon options and start with a daily gel application combined with a sticky catcher.
By understanding how these pests breed and targeting them where they live, you’ll win the battle against unwanted kitchen and bathroom invaders.
FAQs About Drain Fly Traps
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What is the best drain fly trap for bathroom drains?
Zevo and FlyAway sticky dome traps are highly effective near bathroom sinks and tubs. -
Do vinegar and dish soap really work to trap drain flies?
Yes, this homemade drain fly trap vinegar dish soap solution is a simple and effective method. -
How long does it take for a drain fly trap to work?
Some traps catch flies within 24 hours, while gels may take 5–7 days to eliminate larvae.