If you’ve ever wondered how to get rid of gnats in the house, you’re not alone. These tiny flying insects can be a real nuisance, especially around your kitchen, bathroom, and houseplants. Gnats are attracted to moisture, fruits, and organic matter—but thankfully, you don’t need harsh chemicals to send them packing.
In this guide, we’ll share 10 natural and proven home remedies to help you get rid of gnats for good and keep your home fresh and pest-free.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar Trap
One of the most effective and natural ways to get rid of gnats in your house is by using an apple cider vinegar trap.
How to do it:
- Pour apple cider vinegar into a small bowl.
- Add a few drops of dish soap.
- Cover it loosely with plastic wrap and poke tiny holes.
The vinegar attracts the gnats, and the dish soap traps them. You’ll start seeing results within hours!
2. Use Essential Oils (Lemon, Peppermint, or Eucalyptus)
Essential oils not only smell great but also repel gnats effectively.
Mix a few drops of your favorite oil with water and spray it around windows, sinks, and plants.
This is a natural and eco-friendly way to keep gnats away from your living spaces.
3. Dry Out the Soil of Houseplants
Gnats love damp soil—that’s where they breed.
If you have indoor plants, let the top layer of soil dry before watering again. You can also sprinkle cinnamon powder on top; it naturally kills gnat larvae and prevents more from hatching.
4. Use a Vinegar and Baking Soda Drain Cleaner
If gnats are coming from your kitchen or bathroom sink, your drains are likely their breeding spot.
Fix it with this simple trick:
- Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain.
- Follow it with one cup of vinegar.
- After 10 minutes, flush with hot water.
This eliminates food residue and kills any hidden gnat eggs.
5. Fruit Trap Method
Got ripe fruits on your counter? Gnats see them as a buffet!
To trap them, place a few pieces of overripe fruit in a bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and poke holes. Gnats will fly in but won’t find their way out.
6. Candle and Water Trick
At night, place a lit candle in a bowl of water. Turn off the lights.
Gnats will be drawn to the flame, fall into the water, and drown. It’s an old trick—but it works like magic.
7. Use a Homemade Gnat Spray
Make your own DIY gnat repellent with this simple mix:
- 1 cup of water
- 2 tablespoons of vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- A few drops of dish soap
Spray this around window sills, kitchen counters, and anywhere gnats hang out.
8. Keep Trash and Drains Clean
Gnats are attracted to organic waste and moisture.
- Take out trash daily.
- Clean your bins with vinegar or lemon water.
- Don’t leave dirty dishes in the sink overnight.
This small habit drastically reduces gnat activity in your home.
9. Install Screens and Reduce Moisture
Gnats often come in through open doors and windows.
Install fine mesh screens and use a dehumidifier in humid areas like bathrooms or basements. Reducing moisture is key to preventing gnats from breeding.
10. Keep Fruits and Vegetables Covered
Always store ripe fruits in the refrigerator or cover them with a mesh lid.
This keeps the smell from attracting gnats and ensures they don’t multiply around your kitchen area.
Bonus Tip: Regular Maintenance
Once you’ve managed to get rid of gnats in your house, prevention is everything. Keep your home clean, avoid overwatering plants, and use vinegar traps once a week as a preventive measure.
