The Truth: 3 Things You’re Doing That Attract Flies (Without Even Knowing It)
- MPS
- Apr 6
- 2 min read
If you’ve ever wondered why flies always seem to find their way into your space — even when you keep things clean — you’re not alone. At Montana Pest Solutions, we’ve seen it all. And the truth is, many homes and businesses unintentionally invite flies in with everyday habits.
Let’s break down 3 things you’re probably doing right now that are basically sending flies a handwritten invitation to come over.
Leaving Ripe Fruit Out on the Counter
We get it — a colorful fruit bowl is a kitchen staple. But did you know that ripe fruit releases ethanol as it breaks down? Flies (especially fruit flies) can detect that scent from a surprising distance.
Once they find your fruit, they’re not just hanging around for a snack — they’re looking to lay eggs. And before you know it, your kitchen becomes a mini fly nursery.
What to do instead:
Store ripe fruits in the fridge.
Use a mesh fruit cover if you like to keep fruit out for the aesthetics.
Check for bruised or overripe fruit and toss them ASAP.
Neglecting Your Drains
Even if your counters are spotless, flies don’t need much to survive — a little grime in your kitchen or bathroom drain is enough. Drain flies breed in organic matter that builds up inside pipes, and it can go unnoticed for weeks.
These tiny guys are annoying, persistent, and love to show up when guests are over (of course).
How to fix it:
Once a week, pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down your drains, followed by boiling water.
Consider using a drain gel specifically made to eliminate organic buildup.
Don’t forget floor drains — they’re often the most overlooked.
Overwatering Your Houseplants
Here’s one most people never think about: your love for indoor plants could be part of the problem. Overwatered soil is a breeding ground for fungus gnats — tiny flying pests that love moist environments.
They might look like harmless little bugs, but they multiply fast and are tough to get rid of once they settle in.
Pro tips:
Let the top 1-2 inches of soil dry out before watering again.
Use sticky traps near the base of plants to catch adult gnats.
Add a layer of sand on top of the soil — it disrupts the gnat life cycle
Flies don’t need much to move in — just a little moisture, a bit of sugar, and a cozy place to lay eggs. But the good news? These habits are easy to fix once you know what to look for.
And if you’re already dealing with a fly problem that just won’t go away?
That’s where we come in.
At Montana Pest Solutions, fly control is one of our specialties.
We’ll identify the source, treat the problem at its root, and make sure your space is protected for the long run.
Book a professional inspection today
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