How to Get Rid of Gnats Fast—Top Home & Garden Solutions!

Gnats are tiny flying insects. They buzz around your home and garden. They are annoying. This article tells you how to get rid of them quickly.

What are Gnats?

Gnats are small flies. They like damp places. They eat decaying plants and fungi. Some gnats bite. Most are just a nuisance. They breed quickly. A few gnats can turn into many.

Why are Gnats in My House?

Gnats come inside for several reasons. They like rotting fruit. They enjoy overwatered houseplants. They live in drains. They enter through open doors and windows. They are attracted to light.

How to Get Rid of Gnats Inside

Several methods help remove gnats inside your home.

Fruit Fly Traps

Fruit flies are a type of gnat. Make a simple trap.

• Take a jar.
• Pour apple cider vinegar inside.
• Add a drop of dish soap. The soap breaks the surface tension.
• Gnats fly in. They cannot get out.

Sticky Traps

Sticky traps catch gnats.

• Buy them at the store.
• You can also make your own.
• Coat paper with something sticky. Honey or corn syrup works well.
• Hang the traps near gnat problem areas.

Drain Cleaning

Gnats breed in drains.

• Pour boiling water down the drain. This kills gnat larvae.
• You can use a drain cleaner. Follow product instructions.
• A mixture of baking soda and vinegar works too.
• Pour baking soda down the drain. Then, add vinegar. Let it fizz. Flush with hot water.

Houseplant Care

Overwatered plants attract gnats.

• Let the soil dry between waterings.
• Remove dead leaves. They provide food for gnats.
• Use well-draining soil.

Fly Swatter

The classic fly swatter works. It is good for small infestations. It gives you satisfaction.

Vacuum Cleaner

Use a vacuum cleaner.

• It sucks up gnats.
• It also removes eggs and larvae.
• Vacuum problem areas often.
• Empty the vacuum bag right away.

How to Get Rid of Gnats Outside

Gnats live outside, too. They bother you when you are trying to enjoy your yard. Here are some solutions.

Remove Breeding Sites

Gnats love damp areas.

• They live in piles of leaves.
• They thrive in wet mulch.
• Remove these.
• Keep your yard clean. This discourages gnats.

Outdoor Traps

Set up traps outside. These are similar to indoor traps.

• Use apple cider vinegar.
• Add dish soap.
• Place traps near gnat hot spots.

Citronella Candles

Citronella candles repel gnats.

• Burn them during outdoor activities.
• The scent keeps gnats away.

Beneficial Insects

Some insects eat gnats. These are called beneficial insects.

• Nematodes are tiny worms. They kill gnat larvae in the soil.
• You can buy nematodes.
• Release them in your yard.

Garden Maintenance

Keep your garden healthy.

• Healthy plants are less attractive to gnats.
• Do not overwater.
• Remove dead plants.

Preventing Gnats

It is easier to prevent gnats than to get rid of them.

Keep Things Clean

Clean your kitchen often.

• Do not leave fruit out.
• Empty trash cans.
• Wipe up spills.

Screen Windows and Doors

Screens keep gnats out.

• Make sure screens have no holes.
• Close doors and windows when not in use.

Careful Watering

Do not overwater plants. Let the soil dry some. This prevents gnat breeding.

Inspect Plants

Check new plants for gnats.

• Look at the soil.
• See if you see small flies.
• This stops you from bringing gnats into your home.

When to Call a Professional

Sometimes, home methods do not work. The gnat problem becomes severe. Call a pest control company. They have stronger tools. They can get rid of many gnats.

Conclusion

Gnats are a pest. They are annoying indoors and out. Several ways help you control them. These include traps. Good cleaning helps. Taking care of your plants is key. You can keep gnats from taking over. A little effort keeps your home and yard gnat free.