How to Eliminate Small Worms in Your Bathtub

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If you have small worms in your bathtub, it’s likely that they are drain fly larvae. To get rid of them, you can follow these steps:

1. Clean your bathtub thoroughly to remove any organic matter that the larvae feed on.

2. Use a drain cleaner or a homemade solution of baking soda and vinegar to clear any clogs in your drain.

3. Install a drain cover or mesh screen to prevent the larvae from entering your bathtub in the future.

4. Use a drain fly spray or insecticide specifically designed for drain flies to kill any remaining larvae.

5. Regularly maintain your drains by cleaning them with baking soda and vinegar to prevent future infestations.

By following these steps, you should be able to eliminate the small worms in your bathtub and prevent them from coming back.


If you have ever entered your bathtub for a soothing bath and encountered tiny worm-like creatures, you probably want to know how to remove them and why they were in your tub in the first place. These creatures are not actually worms, but the larvae of the moth fly. Commonly known as drain flies, moth flies are often found in moist areas such as tubs and sinks. The larvae of these insects resemble worms, as they are legless, gray, and typically about 3/8 inch long. Fortunately, it is relatively easy to get rid of both the moth flies and their offspring.

Step 1

Clean the area around your bathtub drain. Moth fly larvae tend to feed on the gelatinous material that often accumulates around drains. Use a drain cleaner, sponge, or scrub brush to clean the area. Make sure to clean the drain at least once a week to keep it free from germs and larvae. If you have a septic system, use safe septic cleaners.

Step 2

Place a trap over the drain. Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly on the underside of a plastic margarine container lid and place it on top of the drain. The emerging flies and larvae are likely to get stuck in the sticky substance. Leave the trap on the drain until the collection of flies and larvae has stopped.

Step 3

Clean the pipes that lead to your shower drain using a long-handled, stiff brush. By cleaning the pipes, you can eliminate the gelatinous grime that serves as the larvae’s food source and cut off their supply, causing them to die.

Step 4

Apply an indoor-safe aerosol insecticide to the larvae. The insecticide will kill the larvae, but it is important to remove their food source to prevent their return. Follow the instructions on the specific product you are using for best results.

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