Gnats primarily come from environments rich in decaying organic matter and moisture, which provide ideal breeding grounds for their eggs and larvae. They often enter homes through open doors, windows, or on fresh produce and potted plants
. Common sources of gnats inside homes include:
- Overripe fruits and vegetables, which attract fruit flies, a type of gnat
- Moist soil in overwatered houseplants, which is a major breeding ground for fungus gnats
- Garbage bins, compost piles, and areas with decomposing organic material
- Damp places such as sink drains, wet sponges, bathrooms, and kitchens where moisture accumulates
Gnats lay eggs in these moist, organic-rich areas, and their larvae feed on the decaying matter. Female gnats can lay hundreds of eggs, which hatch quickly, leading to rapid infestations
. In summary, gnats come from and breed in moist, organic environments both outdoors and indoors, especially where there is decaying plant or food material and excess moisture. Controlling these conditions is key to preventing gnat infestations in homes.