How To Get Rid Of Black Worms In Bathroom

Last Updated on August 9, 2023 By Emma W. Thomas

To eliminate black worms in your bathroom, follow these steps:

• Identify the type of worm to target the right solution.
• Keep the bathroom clean, dry, and well-ventilated.
• Fix any plumbing leaks.
• Use insecticides or natural repellents.
• Consider professional pest control for severe infestations. 

How To Get Rid Of Small Black Worms In Bathroom

Discovering small black worms in your bathroom can be quite an unpleasant surprise. These tiny intruders are often drain fly larvae or moth fly larvae, which thrive in damp and organic-rich environments. While they are not harmful to humans, their presence can be unsightly and indicative of underlying issues like clogged drains or excess moisture. To help you maintain a clean and worm-free bathroom, we have compiled a list of ten effective methods to get rid of these pests.

1. Identify the Source:
   Before taking any action, it is crucial to pinpoint the source and confirm that the worms are indeed drain fly or moth fly larvae. Ensure there are no plumbing leaks, stagnant water, or organic debris promoting their growth.
2. Improve Ventilation:
   Worms like a humid environment, so improve ventilation by opening windows, using exhaust fans, or installing a dehumidifier. This will help reduce moisture levels and discourage their proliferation.
3. Clean and Sanitize Regularly:
   Maintain a rigorous cleaning routine in your bathroom, focusing on areas such as drains, sinks, toilets, and shower curtains. Use a mixture of vinegar and water, or an eco-friendly cleaning solution, to eliminate any potential breeding grounds.
4. Scrub Drains:
   One of the most common places for larvae to reside is within drain pipes. Regularly scrub your drains using a drain brush, focusing on removing any build-up of organic matter. Follow this up with a flush of boiling water to kill any remaining larvae.
5. Use Drain Cleaners:
   When manual scrubbing is insufficient, employ a commercially available drain cleaner to dissolve organic material and larvae. Ensure the product is safe for your plumbing system and use it according to the instructions provided.
6. Remove Standing Water:
   Prevent the accumulation of standing water, which acts as an ideal breeding site, by promptly fixing any plumbing leaks. Wipe dry or fix leaky faucets, pipes, and any other potential sources of moisture.
7. Silicone Caulking:
   Replace worn-out caulking around your bathroom fixtures, as loose or damaged seals can provide entry points for drain flies. Applying fresh silicone caulking will seal gaps and limit their entry into your space.
8. Biological Control:
   Consider using biological control methods like bacterial drain cleaners or biological drain treatments. These eco-friendly solutions contain bacteria that feed on organic waste, effectively reducing larvae populations.
9. Natural Remedies:
   Certain natural remedies can deter and eliminate small black worms in your bathroom. Sprinkling a mixture of baking soda and salt into drains, followed by a mixture of vinegar and hot water, can help break down organic matter and eradicate larvae.
10. Seek Professional Help:
    If your efforts to eliminate the worms are unsuccessful, it may be time to consult a professional pest control service. They will assess the situation, identify any underlying issues, and provide effective treatment methods tailored to your specific needs.

Tips For Dealing With Black Worms

Cleaning The Drainage From Outside

If you see black worms (also known as drain fly larvae) in your bathroom, try cleaning the drain pipes from the outside. Doing this removes slime deposits and dirt that attract the worms. Pour warm water over the drain from outside to help loosen the sludge. You can also use a metal pipe brush and clean in an up and down motion to get rid of the excess waste.

Drainage Cleaner

You can purchase a strong drainage cleaning gel to help coat the sides of the pipe and remove any organic matter. Leave the gel for some time then flush out with water.

Spraying With Chemicals

Chemical sprays are effective in killing any adult worms that could remain after removing the larvae from the pipes. If not put on check, adult worms could return to the drain pipes and lay eggs which hatch into more larvae. You can mix liquid dish soap with water or use a fly swatter to kill the worms.

Using the substances is safe since they don’t have any toxic or harsh chemicals.

Flushing The Out The Larvae

You can flush out the worms by pouring hot water, chemicals or bicarbonate of soda in the pipes. Pour the sodium bicarbonate in the drainpipe every morning followed by a kettle of boiling water. You need to repeat this every day for a whole week. Make sure also that you open any unused taps and run them with hot water at least three times a week.

Treating your toilet frequently with strong bleach will also help to keep the annoying creatures at bay. Make sure that you flush the toilet several times after treating.

What Causes Black Worms In The Toilet?

Black worms survive on soap scum, organic matter, and mineral residue inside the drainage and they are also attracted to moist areas that humans frequent. You can identify the creatures by their black or gray, fluffy bodies and long antennas.

Worms can increase really fast if not controlled since their eggs take only two days to ahtch into larvae. These larvae enter into pupal stage within 8-24 days where they take one or two days before becoming adults. It is necessary to locate the breeding sites to help deal with the infestation.

You need to place a piece of tape face down in a place where you suspect the creatures to be. Check the tape frequently since adult drain flies will emerge and stick on it. Ensure that you clean the breeding site thoroughly after discovering it to kill the larvae. Doing this will stop them from feeding and reproducing.

You can also prevent black worms from infesting your home by cleaning all drain pipes frequently. Make sure that the shower surfaces and traps remain clean all the time. Your septic system needs to have proper maintenance to keep the larvae at bay.

Simple Steps To Eliminate Worms From Your Bathroom

While preventing worms from infesting your bathroom is the best remedy, you may sometimes realize that these creatures are already in. These annoying creatures love wet and damp environments which makes the bathroom an ideal place for them. This is not, however, enough reason to let the worms thrive in your home.

Follow these simple steps to help you deal with the menace:

Cleaning

Start by cleaning all the areas near the tubs and drainage. Ensure that you scrub properly since worms like hiding in such areas. Clean the areas at least once every week using a brush or sponge to remove the worms and larvae.

Using Household Cleaners

Use household cleaners like bleach or borax after cleaning. These substances help to kill the larvae, eggs, or adult worms. Flush the drainage using baking soda or vinegar to remove any eggs. Ensure that the inside flaps of the drainage are clean all the time.

This decontamination process should be carried out every week to eliminate the worms completely.

Cleaning Jammed Pipes

Larvae and worms love feeding on grime found inside jammed pipes. Use a brush to clear the waste in such pipes. But if you are uncomfortable doing the cleaning yourself, then you can call in an expert to do it. Cleaning these pipes will deny the creatures grime hence leesening their chances of survival.

Using A Trap

Once you have cleaned every part in your bathroom, you can put a trap on the drainage to prevent the worms from re-entering. Use petroleum jelly to cover the inner sides of the drain pipe. The jelly traps the worms and larvae and blocks them from getting inside.

Sealing Any Entry Points

Identify any gaps or holes in your restroom that may act as entry points for the black worms. Seal the holes but ensure that you don’t cause plumbing problems.

You can also spray the entry points with insecticides. You may also use dilute vinegar to repel the worms, bugs, and other insects. If you are using insecticides, it is advisable to use one that is suitable for indoors. Carefully read the instructions on the label before spraying to avoid contamination.

Consulting A Pest-Control Expert

Pest-control experts have better ideas on controlling worms. Pest-control professionals will also advise you on how to eradicate the menace of worms and other unwanted organisms from your home.

While most worms are harmless, their presence makes your home look untidy and unhygienic. It is therefore necessary to do everything possible to maintain proper hygiene and sanitation.

How To Get Rid Of Drain Flies

Drain flies are a nuisance to your home especially when they come from floor drains. They may also find their way into other drains that are not used frequently. If you have such a problem in your home, use the following methods to get rid of them:

Pour Hot Water Inside The Drain

Check if the drain is functioning properly by pouring 1/2 gallon of water. If the water drains fast, it means the drain is working well. Follow this step by pouring some hot water to kill larvae. Be careful when using very hot water as this may crack the surface materials. You need to also be cautious when using hot water not to injure yourself.

Pour White Vinegar

White vinegar is effective in killing larvae that may be sticking to the inside of the pipe. You may also use household bleach instead of vinegar but be careful since it is caustic and dangerous. Never mix bleach with vinegar as this may produce chlorine gas which is poisonous. Pour a little bleach (about one cap of the bleach bottle) into the drain as this is enough to kill larvae and insects.

Other Household Items

There are several household items that you can use to kill drain flies. Pour half a cup of salt, half cup baking soda, and one cup of white vinegar in the drain. Leave the items to work overnight then flush with boiling or hot water in the morning. Doing this will help to sanitize the drain eliminate the flies and the eggs.

Do not mix these substances as doing this may endanger your health.

How To Stop Worms From Entering Your Toilet

1. Keep the Lid Closed:
   One of the easiest ways to stop worms from entering your toilet is by making sure that the lid is always closed. This simple step helps to create a barrier and prevents worms from finding their way into the bowl.
2. Regular Cleaning:
   Regularly cleaning your bathroom is not only important for hygiene but can also deter worms from entering your toilet. Use a mild disinfectant cleaner to clean the toilet and the surrounding area. This helps to remove any potential food sources or attractants that might lure worms in.
3. Drain Covers:
   Installing drain covers in your bathroom can be an effective measure to prevent worms from entering your toilet through the drainage system. Ensure that these covers are properly fitted to keep worms out while allowing water to flow freely.
4. Fix Leaks:
   Worms are attracted to moisture, so it’s important to fix any leaks in your bathroom. Check for leaking pipes or faucets and repair them as soon as possible. By eliminating excess moisture, you make your toilet less appealing to worms.
5. Proper Waste Disposal:
   To prevent worms from being attracted to your toilet, it’s crucial to dispose of waste properly. Avoid flushing items such as tissues, paper towels, or sanitary products, as these can create blockages, leading to potential worm infestation. Use a trash bin designated for waste disposal instead.
6. Use Toilet Cleaning Tablets:
   Consider using toilet cleaning tablets that contain enzymes or chemicals designed to inhibit the growth of worms and other pests. When these tablets dissolve in the water, they can enhance the cleanliness of your toilet and deter worms from entering.
7. Seal Cracks and Gaps:
   Inspect your bathroom for any cracks or gaps that could serve as entry points for worms. Fill these gaps with caulk or sealant to deny access to the pests. Pay attention to areas around the toilet base, pipes, or wall joints that might be vulnerable.
8. Reduce Humidity:
   Worms thrive in humid conditions, so it’s essential to control the humidity levels in your bathroom. Use exhaust fans or open windows to allow proper ventilation and reduce excess moisture. This makes your bathroom less inviting for worms and helps maintain a hygienic environment.
9. Pest Control:
   If you suspect a worm infestation or have recurrent issues despite taking preventative measures, consider seeking professional pest control services. They can assess the situation, identify potential entry points, and provide effective treatment options to eliminate worms from your toilet.

References:

https://germanybrilliant.com/en/news/read/how-to-get-rid-of-worms-in-the-bathroom-and-drains
https://www.sunrisespecialty.com/black-worms-in-shower