Nothing can interrupt an outdoor party quite like a swarm of gnats. Not to be confused with fruit flies or mosquitos, these tiny flying insects have slender bodies, long legs, and wings that frequently form a Y-shape on their back—and they can be pesky party crashers. If you need to know how to get rid of gnats outside ASAP, we’re here to help.

In outdoor pest control, it’s best to act fast. “While there are various species of gnats, all are prolific breeders—which can quickly lead to infestations if left unmanaged,” shares entomologist Trent Frazer.

Here, our pest control experts explain how to spot signs of a gnat infestation, and, more importantly, how to get rid of gnats and keep them from coming back.

Signs and Causes of a Gnat Infestation

Heat and humidity create the perfect conditions for gnats, especially in the mornings and evenings. If you notice them hovering around compost piles, trash bins, or overwatered flower beds, they have found a breeding ground.

Gnats love warm, humid, and wet environments. So, if you see an infestation in your yard, it’s likely happening due to high moisture. Yard gnat infestations typically increase in the spring and summer due to the warmer weather and water sources drying up.

“That means any remaining puddles, birdbaths, clogged gutters, or even pet water bowls can become gnat hotspots,” explains Brad Guerrera, owner of Expert Pest Control. “Overwatering your lawn or garden can also attract them, especially if you have dense mulch or potted plants with poor drainage.”

Yesenia Soto, research and development manager for P.F. Harris adds, “Gnats will also love any piles of rotting leaves, animal waste or uncovered food and trash outside.”

How to Get Rid of Gnats Outside

Remove Moist Materials
Depriving gnats of moisture and decaying material is the first step towards getting rid of them,” says pest control expert Nicole Carpenter. “But the battle is not over once you remove breeding sites, such as clogged gutters or standing water, because you need to kill the adult gnats that may still fly around.” 

Make a Gnat Trap
To kill the gnats, Guerrera has a simple solution: “For immediate relief, a simple homemade gnat trap works wonders,” he shares. “Fill a shallow dish with apple cider vinegar and add a drop of dish soap. The vinegar attracts the gnats, and the soap prevents them from escaping.” 

Use Cinnamon for Plants
For outdoor plants, Guerrera sprinkles cinnamon on the soil to naturally kill fungus gnat larvae. “Neem oil is another great option that stops gnats from breeding without harming beneficial insects.”

Methods to Avoid

Bug zappers might seem like a good idea, but they are not effective for gnats. “They mostly kill harmless insects and do little to control the actual problem,” Guerrera says.

Guerrera adds, “Harsh chemical sprays can also disrupt the natural ecosystem in your yard, killing off helpful pollinators and predators that keep gnat populations in check.”

How to Prevent Gnats Outside

There are several methods for naturally deterring gnats. These will help stop infestations before they start—which means less chance of gnats spoiling your outdoor fun this season.

• Fix any moisture issues. Let the soil in your garden dry out before watering again, clear up any drainage problems, and reposition any bird baths or other water fixtures.
• Clear up yard debris. Remove piles of leaves or excess mulch in your outdoor spaces. 
• Tightly seal waste bins. To get rid of gnats and prevent future gnat infestations, dispose of organic waste promptly and ensure compost bins are tightly sealed. 
• Switch your outdoor lights. “If you have bright white lights near entrances, they might be drawing gnats closer to your home,” says Carpenter. “Switch to yellow bulbs to reduce gnats.”
• Get an outdoor fan. Guerrera suggests a fan on your porch or patio since gnats are weak fliers and avoid breezy areas.
• Planting gnat-repelling herbs. Plants like lavender, rosemary, and basil can help naturally deter these flying insects. Arrange them around seating areas for maximum effect.