How to Naturally Kill Gnats

Gnats can be tiny flying nuisances. There are several different types of gnats, and most of them are harmless--just annoying. They fall into the same order in the animal kingdom as mosquitoes and sand flies. By comparison they are the lesser of the evils, but this still doesn't mean that they're invited into our kitchens and gardens. Without having to use harmful chemicals that may harm pets or children it's possible to kill gnats in unwelcome areas.

Things You'll Need

• Balsamic Vinegar
• Dawn Dish Soap
• Jar
• Vinegar
• Paper Cups
• Ammonia
• Sticky Fly Traps
• Potatoes
• Vanilla Extract

Instructions

Ideas for Gnats Inside the House

1. Mix a solution of 1 cup balsamic vinegar and 2 or 3 tbsp. of Dawn dish soap into a small cup or several small cups. The gnats will be attracted to it and climb in.

2. Fill a jar with vinegar and poke holes in the lid. The gnats like the smell of the vinegar, and when they climb in to get it, they won't be able to climb back out.

3. Pour a cup of ammonia down the drain of the sink to keep gnats from hovering around it. Avoid using the sink for a couple of hours so as not to wash away the scent completely.

4. Set small paper cups around the areas where the gnats are problematic. Fill the cups with a piece of rotten fruit, water and some dish soap. The gnats will smell the fruit and the dish soap will kill them.

Ideas for Gnats Outside

1. Hang sticky fly traps in the areas where gnats hover. Directly suspending the traps over plants that they like will be particularly effective.

2. Cut potatoes into 1/2- to 1/4-inch pieces and set them along pots that plants are in. The gnats are attracted to potatoes, so when you come back several hours later you can dispose of the potatoes and the larvae that is now embedded into them.

3. Rub vanilla extract on clothes and skin to repel gnats when working outside.

4. Set little cups or lids with soapy water in them around the garden to attract gnats, which will climb in the cups and drown.

Tips & Warnings

• Empty trash cans regularly and clean drains well. It helps to get rid of anything that gnats could be attracted to. Place all fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator so as to not give gnats a reason to come inside.