They do not bite or spread diseases and are not harmful to humans or pets.
However, they can become a nuisance when swarming around your face, food, and living spaces.
Gnat larvae can even cause plant damage.
The Spruce / Ellen Lindner
They also reproduce quickly, so its important to take immediate action to eliminate them and avoid an infestation.
So, how do you get rid of gnats in your home?
What Are Gnats?
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Gnats are a group name for two-winged flying insects that can be both biting and non-biting.
There are several different kinds of gnats.
But there are also plenty of insect-like pests that can be easily mistaken for gnats.
Fungus on plants
Knowing what kind of gnat or pest youre dealing with makes it easier to determine the right removal method.
Install Bug Zappers
Bug zappers can be installed inside and outside to discourage gnats.
Interior light traps will help keep inside gnats and other nuisance pest populations manageable.
Joao Paulo Burini / Moment
Clean Organic Material
Gnats and many of their lookalikes are attracted to rotting organic materials.
A leaky pipe can attract and provide gnats and other pests with food and water sources.
Fixing the leak can eliminate the root of the problem.
There are a few vinegar trap variations to try.
Place it in an area where gnats are concentrated.
Use a utensil and poke little holes to let the gnats in but not out.
Set as many traps as needed if there are multiple infested areas.
Pouring bleach or drain cleaner will kill adult pests but not the larvae.
Eliminate the feeding and breeding source by scrubbing the drain thoroughly with a cleaner and a stiff scrub brush.
Place the fruit in a jar or bowl and cover it tightly with plastic wrap.
Poke tiny holes with a utensil so the gnats get in but cant get out.
Create a Wine Trap
Similar to the other homemade traps, souring wine can work well too.
Pour wine thats past its prime into a jar or bowl.
Repot Plants
Protect your plants from gnats by repotting them.
Remove the plant and brush off as much of the soil as possible from the roots.
Then, transfer it to the new and prepped pot, adding as much fresh soil as necessary.
Its also a good idea to relocate the plant away from where the gnats were previously congregating.
Keep them in a sunny place to dry out.
Reduce watering frequency to prevent overwatering and soggy soil.
What Causes Gnats in the House?
Gnats in your house are typically more of a nuisance than a danger.
The fastest way to get rid of gnats is to set traps.
These traps use vinegar, wine, fruit, or sticky paper to lure and eliminate gnats.
Gnats will not go away on their own if the source of what attracts them remains.
Find what’s drawing them, address it, and the issue should resolve itself.
Gnats hate many natural scents, like eucalyptus, citronella, lemon, peppermint, vanilla, and lavender.
