How To Get Rid Of Gnats And Midges

Gnats & midges are common names that are used when referring to small, flying insects that bite. The names gnats and midges are used interchangeably, however, gnats are in fact fruit flies & while they are a nuisance and an economic problem for farmers, they feed on fruit & vegetables, not us.  This article looks at how to get rid of the insects that bite, namely midges.

Belonging to the family Ceratopogonidae, their distribution is worldwide. They are also known as biting midges,  punkies, no see-ums and incorrectly sandflies (sandflies belong to a different biological group). 

While both male & female midges feed on plant nectar, only the female feeds on blood, the protein in blood helps nourish her eggs. Midges feed from dusk to dawn, and females are attracted to us by the carbon dioxide exhaled as we breathe. They are most prevalent in the summer months.

Preventing and repelling midges:

·         Install fly screens on doors and windows to keep insects out of the home. Check for holes in screens and repair if necessary.

·         Eliminate standing water in the area such as children's pools, water standing in plant pot trays, buckets  etc.

·         Wear  loose fitting clothes that cover most of you (ie; long sleeves & pants).

·         Install an electric bug zapper.

·         Use insect repellant containing DEET. Always read the instructions when using insect sprays on children and apply as directed.

·         Burn midge repelling coils or candles when sitting outside. Midges are most active from dusk onwards.

How to treat midge bites:

·         Don't scratch the bite which will lead to further irritation & break the skin, possibly leading to infection.

·         Apply ice to the area. This will help with the itching & reduce swelling.

·         Apply calamine lotion to the area.

·         Rub soap directly onto the bite.

·         There are a multitude of over the counter topical or oral antihistamine products to treat midge bites. Oral antihistamine may cause drowsiness.

Natural mosquito repellents:

·         Lemon eucalyptus oil is a natural and effective mosquito repellent.  

·         Citronella products are also popular. These come in the form of candles or coils.

Also see:

Bug Bites, How To Get Rid Of Fruit Flies, How To Get Rid Of Mosquitoes, Mosquito Bites