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Pest Education • DFW Pest Control
Gnat Control in DFW
"Gnat" covers several tiny flies, and the fix depends on which one you have. Learn to tell them apart and target the source.
Family-OwnedVeteran-OwnedSince 2016
Reviewed and updated June 2026
At a Glance
Gnats are several kinds of tiny flies, each with a different breeding source. Identifying which one you have points to the right control.
Quick Facts
- Look: Various tiny flies
- Types: Fungus gnats, fruit flies, drain flies, eye gnats
- Key: Each type has a different breeding source
- Concern: Nuisance swarms indoors and outdoors
What Counts as a Gnat?
"Gnat" is a catch-all word for several tiny flies, and getting rid of them depends on correctly identifying which one you have. The common indoor culprits each breed somewhere different.
- Fungus gnats breed in damp houseplant soil.
- Fruit flies breed in ripe produce and drains.
- Drain flies breed in the film inside drains and traps.
- Outdoor eye gnats and midges breed in moist soil and organic matter.
How to Control Gnats
Since each gnat has its own source, the reliable approach is to identify the type, then eliminate that specific breeding site rather than just spraying the air.
- Check houseplants, produce, drains, and damp areas to pinpoint the source.
- Dry out plant soil, clean drains, and remove overripe produce as appropriate.
- See our fungus gnat, fruit fly, and drain fly pages for source-specific steps.
- Reduce outdoor moisture and organic debris for yard gnats and midges.
Treat the Source
Match the approach to the pest and conditions, not just the ones you see.
Explore services →Prevent Return
Reduce moisture, food, and entry points so the problem does not come back.
Request an estimate →Treatments are selected and applied per their labels. Tell us about children, pets, edible gardens, beehives, and other sensitive areas before service, and follow all preparation and re-entry instructions. More on pet- and pollinator-conscious treatment →
Common Questions
What are the little gnats in my house?
Most likely fungus gnats from plant soil, fruit flies from produce or drains, or drain flies from drain film. Identifying which one points to the fix.
Why won't the gnats go away?
Because the breeding source is still active. Killing adults does not help until the soil, produce, or drain where they reproduce is addressed.
How do I figure out which gnat I have?
Note where they cluster: houseplants suggest fungus gnats, the kitchen and fruit suggest fruit flies, and sinks or tubs suggest drain flies.
Sources & Further Reading
Guidance changes over time. Follow current product labels and local recommendations. This page is educational and is not medical advice.
Need Help With Gnat?
Call or email for a free estimate. We’ll recommend an approach that fits your property.