If you’re constantly asking, “Why are there so many flies in my house?”

use this guide to learn what attracts the pests and how to prevent infestation.

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Flies are scavengers that feed on dead and decaying matter.

housefly on white surface

Credit:Getty Images

you’ve got cause to be concerned.

Why Are There So Many Flies in My House?

Common fly varieties includehouseflies,fruit flies,drain flies, and blue bottle flies.

The species spotted in your home depends on where you live and the environmental conditions inside your house.

Decaying Matter

Most flies feed on organic matter.

They hunt for food on countertops and in trash cans, compost piles, and stagnant water.

Fruit flies feed and breed on rotting or overripe fruit.

Drain flies feed and breed on organic matter in your drains or pipes.

So, the sudden increase of flies in your home is likely due to the presence of decomposition.

Warm Temperatures

Flies thrive in warm temperatures of 75F and higher.

Their larvae can mature in 4 to 13 days.

Keeping the indoor temperature cool can ward them off and delay larvae hatching.

Rapid Reproduction

Most fly species reproduce quickly.

The average lifespan of most flies is between 15 and 30 days, depending on factors like food availability.

chances are you already have a fly infestation.

Destroying their breeding grounds is the best way to eliminate them.

After you get rid of the flies, you’ll want to take measures to prevent re-infestation.

Also, regularly flush and clean plumbing pipes because they are ideal breeding sites for drain flies.

confirm all trash cans are covered.

Empty them regularly andclean them thoroughlyinside and out.

Clean and remove pet waste immediately.

Also, keep pet feeding bowls clean and dry.

Prevent Access

Typically, flies live outdoors.

However, they access your home through doors and windows.

Take measures to keep them out, such asensuring the door and window screens are not damaged.

Seal all crevices andinstall weather strippingaround entry points.

Use caulk or foam to seal any openings, especially where pipes come through the exterior of your home.

Store Food Properly

Place food in sealed containers and promptly clean any food or beverage spills.

Adequately cover leftover food and store it in the refrigerator.

Dispose of overripe fruits and cover all trash cans.

Call an Exterminator

Contact a professional if you have an infestation you cannot get rid of.

Professionals can correctly identify the flies and eliminate their breeding grounds.

Drains are a common culprit, too, if water is rarely turned on in a sink or shower.

Flies avoid sharp scents like lavender, rosemary, citronella, clove, eucalyptus, peppermint, and lemongrass.

Houseflies typically live 15 to 30 days.