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Gnats may be tiny, but a gnat infestation inside the home can be a huge headache. Unlike other types of household pests, gnats don’t bite, sting, carry diseases, or cause destruction. But having to constantly swat away gnats flying around can drive you crazy.
When you notice gnats in your home, it is important to be proactive. There are several things that you can do when you’re wondering how to get rid of gnats. The sooner you take action, the less likely the gnat infestation will get worse. Let’s go through some tips to help you fix a gnat problem in your home.
Run Your Garbage Disposal Regularly
Gnats thrive in environments where they have access to a food source. Thus, it is not uncommon for a gnat infestation to center around the kitchen in a home. A simple way to help get a gnat problem under control is by running your garbage disposal regularly. Gnats like to feed on scraps of food, so the drain of a kitchen sink is a prime area for these pests. Running your garbage disposal will eliminate food debris. It is also a good idea to thoroughly clean the drain of your kitchen sink from time to time.
Keep Your Garbage Can Sealed
A garbage can is also very attractive to gnats since most people dispose of leftover food in their trash. If you don’t want gnats swarming around the garbage can in your kitchen, purchase a garbage can that has a lid. It is best for the lid of the garbage can to have a tight seal. Also, take the time to clean your garbage can a couple of times a month.
Don’t Store Food on the Counter
When you have a gnat infestation in your home, it is essential to store all of your food properly. Don’t make the mistake of leaving fruits sitting out on the counter. Put them in the fridge instead. Your counter should be completely clear. Also, pay attention to how you store non-perishables in the panty. All food should be in airtight containers.
Avoid Overwatering Houseplants
Houseplants are a beautiful addition to any room. However, they can also attract gnats. Gnats are not just attracted to food. They also seek out moist organic material. Thus, it is very important to avoid overwatering any houseplants that you have in your home. Only add enough water to make the soil slightly damp.
Use Sticky Traps
Using a fly swatter to attempt to kill gnats is pointless. However, you can purchase sticky traps to leave in areas with gnat activity. Sticky traps are bright in color, which attracts gnats. After a gnat lands on a sticky trap, it will be stuck and eventually die. The number of sticky traps you will need will depend on the level of infestation in your home.
Make a Homemade Gnat Trap
When swarms of gnats are annoying you, consider making a homemade gnat trap. They are simple to make with items that most people have in their homes. All you have to do is pour vinegar into a shallow bowl and then add a couple of drops of liquid dish soap. Cover the bowl with clear plastic wrap and poke some holes in it.
Gnats are attracted to the smell of vinegar, so they will fly into the bowl. Once in the bowl, the gnats will be trapped and then die. You can also make a similar trap using either red wine or decaying fruit.
Hire an Exterminator
Taking the proper measures can help with a gnat infestation, but they won’t completely eliminate the problem. If you’re seeking a permanent solution to take care of gnats in your home, hiring an exterminator is your best bet. An exterminator will be able to use methods with a proven track record to kill both the adult gnats flying around your home and their eggs.
Conclusion
When you see gnats in your home, don’t brush off the issue. Taking action immediately can help prevent a huge gnat infestation. Removing access to food and moist organic material are good steps. But the best option to deal with gnats is to hire an exterminator who can provide a permanent solution.
Article submitted by Jenna Klein