70p cupboard item tip 'keeps pesky little flies out of your home'
As the seasons change, homeowners across the UK are dealing with an unwelcome invasion: gnats. These pesky insects thrive in warm, humid conditions, making late summer and early autumn the peak time for infestations, especially around sinks, drains, and bathrooms.
As Google searches for “how to get rid of gnats” increased 36% in the past month and “little flies in bathroom” by 71%, Alex Woods at Victorian Plumbing has shared his top tips for preventing and eliminating gnat infestations in your home.
How to keep gnats out of your home
Keep drains clean
Alex said: “Gnats thrive in moist environments, making kitchen and bathroom sinks prime targets. Regularly clean your drains with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to keep them fresh. Be sure to remove any buildup of organic material, such as leftover food, from plugholes, and thoroughly dry your sink and drain after cleaning, as gnats are attracted to damp areas.”
As an example, Victorian Plumbing took the cost of baking soda and vinegar from ASDA, calculating 50g of baking soda at 16p and 500ml of vinegar at 54p for a total of 70p.
Eliminate standing water
Alex said: “Standing water provides the perfect breeding ground for gnats to lay their eggs. To prevent an infestation, make sure no excess water is left in sinks or bathtubs, and dry these areas thoroughly after use. Overwatered houseplants can also be a hotspot. Moisture buildup inside your home from broken pipes or blocked sinks is another issue, so it's important to check for leaks and address any plumbing problems quickly to avoid water accumulation.”
Use natural repellents
Alex said: “Natural repellents can be highly effective in keeping gnats at bay, essential oils such as eucalyptus, lavender, and peppermint work well for repelling gnats - citronella candles are also a great option for deterring various pests. Try placing cotton balls soaked in essential oils near areas where gnats tend to gather.”
Keep your home dry
Alex said: “Gnats prefer humid environments, so keeping your home dry can help to deter them. Use dehumidifiers in areas prone to moisture and ensure proper ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens by opening windows. Since gnats are most active during the day, especially around mid-morning and dusk, keeping windows closed during these times can also help.”
Regular cleaning
Alex said: “Gnats are attracted to dirt, organic material, and moisture, so maintaining a clean home is key to keeping them away. Regular vacuuming removes food crumbs while dusting clears away dust and grime that can become breeding grounds for gnats. By decluttering your home and frequently cleaning high-traffic areas like kitchens, and bathrooms, you can greatly reduce the chances of a gnat infestation.”
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy a gnat-free home this autumn and beyond. Regular cleaning, proper ventilation and addressing moisture-prone areas will help keep gnats away. Natural repellents and quick fixes for leaks can also make a big difference.