How to Kill Indoor Gnats

Gnats are pesky, but you can get rid of them.

Gnats can be a real nuisance, especially in the summer. Most people have to deal with these pests in their homes. You can take some simple steps to get rid of them and, once they are gone, it's just as easy to keep them away.

Things You'll Need

• Bowl or container
• Cling wrap
• Vinegar

Instructions

1. Move food to a place the gnats can't get to. If they can't eat, they won't live. There are many ways to accomplish this. Make sure that all fruits and vegetable are out of the way. Store them in the refrigerator or a storage bin the gnats can't get to. Do not leave food in your trash can. Empty it as often as possible. Buy a trashcan with a lid as it will also help kill the gnats.

2. Fill a bowl or container with vinegar. Gnats love it. Cover it with cling wrap and poke small holes in the top. Set it in a place where you are noticing the gnats the most. The gnats will be drawn to the vinegar and once they are in, they will die. Replace your vinegar as often as you need to.

3. Care for your indoor plants properly. Do not over-water them and make sure the drainage on the pot you are using is adequate. Gnats are drawn to extremely wet plants as it is food for them, so always try to prevent this.

4. Spray the gnats with hairspray. This will stiffen them up and kill them. There is no need to saturate the area or the gnat. A light mist with your hair spray bottle should do the trick. This step is best used when you are only dealing with a few gnats.

5. Make a trip to your hardware store and buy a pesticide that is especially formulated to kill gnats. These sprays will work instantly and likely keep the gnats away for months at a time. Ask an associate to recommend one to you. Be careful with these pesticides and follow the directions on the can. Make sure you are familiar with the warning labels.

Tips & Warnings

• Preventing gnats is a lot easier than killing them as they multiply quickly. Remember, if they have nothing to eat, there is no reason for them to be hanging out in your home.

• There are many different kinds of gnats. Most are harmless, but there are some that bite. Don't ignore a gnat problem. Resolve it as quickly as possible to keep the situation from getting out of hand.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Read this Article in UK English