A New York City Exterminator Says This Is the Only Way to Get Rid of Gnats

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“How to get rid of gnats” is an age-old conundrum that seemingly everyone has to deal with at some point or another. Gnats, the tiny flying insects whose bites leave little red bumps that itch like crazy, are gross, and even though they are never welcomed houseguests, they always find their way inside and try to stay for as long as possible.

Unlike some infestations, like bed bugs, roaches, or mice, getting rid of gnats isn’t quite as tiresome or time-consuming, so if you’re dealing with a gnat issue and are feeling a bit helpless, allow us to help. We chatted with Diana Ludwiczak, a home pest inspector certified in New York City, where unwanted bug invasions are quite common. Ahead, she shares her expertise on the subject, breaking down what exactly the bugs are, where to find them, how to prevent an outbreak, and, of course, how to get rid of gnats altogether.

So if you’re dealing with swarms of gnats in your home, keep reading because we, or shall we say the experts, have answers.

What Are Gnats

First things first: Gnats are tiny winged insects that typically live outside. They often end up in homes by way of cut garden flowers or potted plants, and once they’re in, their headcount can double in a matter of minutes. Ludwiczak says, “The name gnat can mean many different species depending on what region of the world you are finding them. Therefore, the name tends to mean any small fly.” In fact, people often refer to fruit flies, which are slightly bigger but equally as gross, as gnats.

How to Know If You Have Gnats

Unlike roaches, which can be hard to spot because they mostly come out at night and hide during the day, gnats are easy to spot because they swarm at all hours of the day. If you see one and are wondering if there may be more, head to your plants, windows, and lights. If you have an infestation, that’s likely where they’ll be. You may also want to peep around your fruit basket because the sweet aroma will draw them in.

“These pests are attracted to moisture, so you may see swarms in areas with damp soils, standing water, or even houseplants that have been overwatered,” Ludwiczak adds. “The breeding habits of gnats are most active during warmer months, which is why they seem to be especially prevalent during summer.”

How to Get Rid of Gnats

There are a few easy ways to get rid of gnats, but they only work if you tackle the problem head-on and quickly. In other words, don’t wait until the problem is truly out of control to consider your options because, at that point, there aren’t many.

• Identify the source. Ludwiczak suggests, “Gnats can come from standing water, rotting fruits or vegetables, sewage, pet waste, and other sources of organic matter. Finding and eliminating these sites is critical for reducing gnat populations.”

• Clean your home. “Keeping surfaces clean and dry will help reduce breeding grounds for gnats, as they’re particularly attracted to moist soil or plant debris left around the home or garden,” Ludwiczak notes. So even a few small soil particles are enough to fuel these gross little bugs. If there was ever a time to keep your home spotless, it’s during a gnat outbreak.

• Use traps. Trap-based products include sticky tape traps and essential oil sprays that target adult flying insects like fruit flies and gnats.

• Circulate the air with fans. “Air currents coming from a fan create an unfavorable environment for gnats because it’s difficult for them to fly,” Ludwiczak points out. “If possible, use multiple fans at strategic locations around the house and garden.”

• Turn on the bug zapper. This may sound harsh, but it is effective. Simply plug the zapper into an electrical outlet, turn it on, and watch the gnat population dwindle. The light attracts them and then, when they get close enough, electrocutes them.

• Set up a vinegar bowl. One of the most old-school ways to get rid of gnats is with a vinegar bowl. Fill a bowl with vinegar, sugar, and dish soap. The sugar attracts them, the dish soap keeps them in the bowl, and the vinegar kills them.

How to Prevent Gnats?

Once you’ve eliminated the problem, you’ll probably want to do everything you can to prevent another infestation, so this may be the most crucial part to learn. “Understanding where gnats come from and what attracts them is the key to preventing their infestation,” Ludwiczak says, “By taking steps to remove any sources of standing water, drying out any moist areas, and keeping your living space clean and organized, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of a gnat infestation.”

If possible, try to leave all fruit in the fridge and flora outside. If you’re a bit paranoid, keep the vinegar traps out all year. “If you make these traps alongside removing mildew, standing water, and keeping overripe fruit in the fridge, you’ll get rid of the gnats in no time,” Ludwiczak explains.

Organic Apple Cider Vinegar

USB Desk Fan

Flying Insect Trap

Artificial Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree

All-Purpose Cleaner Spray

Ultra Bleach Dish Soap

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