Why Are There Tiny Flies Around My Sink?

Small flies around a sink often point to a nearby source that supports breeding or feeding. Killing the adults won't solve the problem if the source remains.

By Everyday Home Advice Editorial Team

Plumber working on household sink plumbing with hand tools

Small flies around a sink often point to a nearby source that supports breeding or feeding. Killing the adults won't solve the problem if the source remains.

Where are they concentrated?

Check whether activity is strongest near the drain, garbage disposal, trash, produce, or damp cleaning materials.

Don't assume every small fly is a drain fly

Several small flying insects can appear around kitchens. Identification helps.

Clean the source

Surface cleaning may not be enough if organic material has accumulated somewhere hidden.

Recurring drain problems

If the sink also drains slowly or smells, investigate the plumbing issue rather than treating only the insects.