How to Get Rid of Gnats
Introduction
The silent “g” in the pronunciation of “gnat” is interesting. Besides that, these tiny two-winged flies can really be a nuisance to people. Swarms of gnats buzz around our faces. Then they zoom into our ears, eyes, and noses. If they’re hungry, gnats will also nibble on you. Is there anything we can do to rid our local environment of these pesky little critters? Fortunately, there is.
Required Materials
Ammonia
Apple cider vinegar
Baking soda
Dish detergent
Flying insect spray
Insecticidal soap spray
Jar
Vinegar
Instructions
The Problem. Gnats are particularly annoying because they fly in swarms. A gnat’s lifespan is only about four months long. During most of this time, they lay about 200-300 eggs. While the scent of rotten food is repugnant to humans, it is like a bed of roses to gnats. This is where they prefer to dine and lay their eggs. It also explains why gnats tend to swarm around sink drains and garbage cans. In addition, gnats like to congregate around plants that have been over watered.
An Ounce of Prevention. The most effective way to solve your gnat problem is to keep them at bay. You should constantly wash any dirty dishes in your kitchen sink, keep sinks tidy, and secure garbage cans with lids. Furthermore, when watering plants, make sure that you don’t overdo it.
Home Remedies. Home remedies typically involve objectives such as treating the common cold or getting out nasty carpet stains. However, some home remedies also seem to work against gnats. Try blending baking soda and apple cider vinegar. However, this mixture can create foam, so mix it slowly. Next, try adding a tablespoon of dish detergent to half a cup of vinegar. This mixture will attract gnats. After drinking the deadly concoction, they will fly up to gnat heaven. Finally, pouring a cup of ammonia down the kitchen sink can also persuade the little miscreants to find a new home.
The Hunter and the Hunted. To eliminate your gnat problem, find the source. Fill a jar nearly to the top with vinegar. Punch many tiny holes in the lid and then place the jar outside. The gnats will be attracted to the jar, but they will then become trapped after squeezing into the holes. You can place several of these traps throughout your home and yard, to determine the source of the pests. Remember that gnats breed in soggy or wet organic material. Also, check drip pans underneath refrigerators, and dirty drains. These could be gnat breeding grounds. Finally, verify that your window and door seals are secure.
Chemical Warfare. Various types of chemicals can be used to combat gnats. Insecticidal soap sprays are a mild option to deal with the gnat infestations. Also, most flying insect sprays can handle small numbers of gnats that flew in from outdoors. A more powerful approach could be taken by using foggers. However, if you have pets, sprays should be used with caution. Carefully read all of the directions on the label. This will ensure that pests, but not pets, are harmed.