Can Vinegar Get Rid of Gnats?
If your home has been invaded by gnats, you're probably wondering what will get rid of them.
Yes, vinegar can get rid of gnats, but it also attracts them.
If you are looking to get rid of gnats, you must use vinegar in a specific way. Leaving a plate of vinegar sitting out will only attract them. To use vinegar to get rid of gnats, do the following:
- Fill a jar partially with vinegar, making sure you're able to poke holes through whatever lid that you are using.
- Poke holes in the top that the gnats are able to get through.
- The gnats that are swarming your house will be attracted to this one singular area. Once they have climbed into the jar though, they will not be able to climb back out.
- For extra security, keep an eye on the jar and put something on top of it once they have entered the jar.
If you happen to be home during this process, the gnats can remain alive. As the gnats enter the jar, bring it outside and let them go. You might want to consider going to a wooded area or elsewhere, not right outside of your home. Letting them free in your yard or on your stoop will only be an invitation for them to return back inside when the door is open.
Other Ways to Get Rid of Gnats
You could always call an exterminator if the problem is really that serious. Try preventing gnats from ever getting into your house. You can do this by:
- Putting fruits and vegetables somewhere that the gnats cannot find them
- Throwing all garbage away immediately
- Not over watering your house plants
Sometimes these methods will fail, or you will simply forget to follow these rules. If the vinegar method does not work, you can attempt one of the following ways to get rid of gnats in your house:
- Purchase an insect spray from your local store. You should inquire at the store about which type is best for your needs. Make sure to take children and pets into consideration, as you do not want them to get sick.
- Pull vegetable oil in your kitchen sink drain. The gnats will be attracted to it, but they will get stuck in it once they are there and you can wash them down the drain.
Clearly, there are a few ways to prevent gnat infestation, some of which do not involve killing them.