Best Natural Baits or Traps for Gnats in Apartments?

Gnats in apartments can quickly turn from a minor nuisance to a major headache. These tiny flying pests invade your living space, hovering around plants, drains, and food. The good news? You can eliminate them using natural, apartment-friendly solutions without harsh chemicals. This guide reveals 11 proven natural baits and traps specifically designed for apartment environments, ensuring you can reclaim your space while keeping pets, children, and plants safe.

Understanding the Gnat Problem in Apartments

Before attempting to eliminate gnats, it’s essential to understand what you’re dealing with in an apartment environment. Apartment gnat infestations have specific characteristics and challenges that differ from those in houses or outdoor settings. The confined space of apartments often makes gnat problems seem more concentrated and noticeable, while shared ventilation systems can contribute to recurring issues.

In my experience as a pest management specialist, apartment gnats typically come from one of four sources: houseplants, kitchen waste, bathroom moisture, or from neighboring units through shared walls and ventilation. Identifying the specific source is crucial for effective treatment.

How to Identify Which Type of Gnat You Have in Your Apartment

Different gnat species require slightly different approaches. Use this identification guide to determine exactly what’s buzzing around your apartment.

Gnat Type	Appearance	Location	Behavior
Fungus Gnats	Small, dark, mosquito-like	Houseplant soil, potted plants	Hover around plants, weak flyers
Fruit Flies	Tan/brown with red eyes	Kitchen, fruit bowls, trash	Attracted to ripening fruit, fast breeders
Drain Flies	Moth-like, fuzzy appearance	Bathroom/kitchen drains	Poor flyers, rest on walls
Phorid Flies	Humpbacked appearance	Garbage, drains, decaying matter	Run across surfaces before flying

The simplest way to identify your gnat type is to notice where they concentrate. If they swarm around plants, they’re likely fungus gnats. Kitchen gnats are typically fruit flies, while bathroom gnats are usually drain flies. Phorid flies often indicate hidden moisture problems or decay.

Why Apartment Environments Present Unique Gnat Challenges

Apartments create distinct environments that can both attract and sustain gnat populations in ways different from single-family homes.

• Shared ventilation systems allow gnats to travel between units
• Limited natural air circulation creates humid microclimates
• Proximity to neighbors means their pest issues can become yours
• Smaller spaces concentrate gnat populations, making them more noticeable
• Rental restrictions often limit structural modifications for permanent solutions
• Common apartment maintenance issues like slow drains provide ideal breeding grounds

Additionally, window sills in apartments often become gnat hotspots as the insects are drawn to light and can enter through tiny gaps around windows.

The 5 Most Effective Natural Vinegar Traps for Apartment Gnat Control

Vinegar-based traps are consistently the most effective natural solution for most apartment gnat problems. These five variations can be customized to your specific situation and gnat type.

Apple Cider Vinegar Trap: The Most Versatile Solution for Apartment Gnats

The apple cider vinegar trap is the gold standard in natural gnat control, and for good reason – it’s highly effective, uses common household items, and can be adapted to any apartment space.

You’ll need:

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 5-6 drops of dish soap
• Small shallow bowl or ramekin
• Plastic wrap (optional)

Steps:

1. Pour apple cider vinegar into a small bowl until it’s about 1/2 inch deep.
2. Add dish soap and gently stir (avoid creating bubbles).
3. Place the trap near gnat activity (kitchen counter, plant shelf, bathroom).
4. For increased effectiveness, cover with plastic wrap and poke small holes.
5. Replace every 2-3 days or when filled with gnats.

This trap works for all gnat types but is particularly effective for fruit flies. Expect to see results within 24 hours, with significant reduction in 3-5 days. For stubborn infestations, natural gnat repellents can complement traps for more comprehensive control.

How to Create Discreet and Decorative Vinegar Traps for Apartment Living

Standard vinegar traps can be unsightly, especially in small apartment spaces. These designer modifications maintain effectiveness while blending with your décor.

• Mason Jar Trap: Use a decorative mason jar with a metal lid. Poke holes in the lid, fill with vinegar solution, and add a paper funnel inside.
• Teacup Trap: An elegant teacup with vinegar solution can sit on a coffee table without looking like pest control.
• Potted Plant Disguise: Place a small container of vinegar solution among your plants, covered with decorative stones on top (leaving space for gnats to enter).
• Candle Holder Conversion: Small decorative candle holders can serve as attractive vinegar traps.

These decorative options work just as effectively as standard traps while maintaining your apartment’s aesthetic. Place them strategically in living areas where you entertain guests without drawing attention to your gnat problem.

Specialized Natural Traps for Houseplant Gnat Problems in Apartments

Houseplant enthusiasts in apartments face unique challenges with fungus gnats. These specialized natural solutions target the soil and plant environment without harming your green companions.

Safe Hydrogen Peroxide Solution for Fungus Gnats in Apartment Plants

Hydrogen peroxide offers a remarkably effective natural treatment for fungus gnats in potted plants, addressing the problem at the source – the soil where larvae develop.

You’ll need:

• 3% hydrogen peroxide (standard drugstore concentration)
• Water
• Measuring cup
• Watering can or container

Dilution ratio: 1 part hydrogen peroxide to 4 parts water

Application method:

1. Allow plant soil to dry slightly before treatment.
2. Mix hydrogen peroxide solution in a watering container.
3. Water plants thoroughly with the solution, allowing it to saturate the soil.
4. The solution will fizz slightly as it kills gnat larvae and eggs.
5. Let the soil dry out more than usual before the next watering.

This treatment is safe for most plants and will not harm roots when properly diluted. You should notice a significant reduction in fungus gnats within 7-10 days. The peroxide breaks down into water and oxygen, leaving no harmful residues. One treatment is often sufficient, but for severe infestations, repeat after 7 days.

For especially sensitive plants, test on a small section of soil first and observe for 24 hours before full application.

Prevention Strategies for Plant Enthusiasts in Apartments

For apartment dwellers with multiple houseplants, prevention is the most effective long-term strategy. These specialized care techniques will break the gnat lifecycle while maintaining plant health.

• Bottom-watering: Place plants in a shallow tray of water for 15-30 minutes instead of watering from top.
• Soil management: Mix 1 part perlite or coarse sand into the top inch of soil to create a dry barrier.
• Watering schedule: Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to completely dry between waterings.
• Quarantine: Keep new plants separate from your collection for 2 weeks to monitor for gnat activity.
• Cinnamon application: Sprinkle ground cinnamon on soil surface as a natural fungicide and deterrent.
• Yellow sticky traps: Place these near plants to catch adult gnats before they lay eggs.

I’ve found that combining preventative strategies significantly reduces recurrence rates. For my indoor garden clients, implementing these practices has decreased gnat issues by over 80%.

Natural Drain and Moisture Treatments for Bathroom and Kitchen Gnats

Bathroom and kitchen drains are primary gnat breeding grounds in apartments. These natural drain treatments eliminate gnats without harsh chemicals or plumbing modifications.

Baking Soda and Vinegar Drain Treatment: Step-by-Step Guide

This powerful natural drain treatment creates a fizzing reaction that dislodges gnat breeding material while killing larvae, all without damaging apartment plumbing systems.

You’ll need:

• 1/2 cup baking soda
• 1 cup white vinegar
• Kettle of boiling water
• Optional: 5 drops of tea tree or eucalyptus essential oil

Steps:

1. Pour baking soda directly into the drain.
2. Immediately follow with vinegar and cover the drain if possible.
3. Let the mixture fizz and work for 30 minutes.
4. Pour boiling water down the drain to flush out loosened material.
5. Add essential oil drops if desired for residual repellent effect.

This treatment works by both physically removing biofilm where gnats breed and creating an environment hostile to their development. For maintenance, repeat weekly in problem drains, especially in bedrooms with connected bathrooms where odorless solutions are preferred.

The treatment is safe for most plumbing but avoid in drains with known issues or very old pipes. Vinegar and baking soda are much gentler than commercial drain cleaners while still effective against gnat larvae.

Essential Oil Solutions for Bathroom and Kitchen Gnat Problems

Certain essential oils naturally repel and eliminate gnats when used correctly. This guide shows you which oils work best for different gnat types and how to apply them safely in apartment settings.

Essential Oil	Effectiveness	Best Application	Safety Notes
Tea Tree	High	Drain treatment, surface spray	Use caution with cats
Eucalyptus	High	Room diffuser, surface wipe	Not for homes with birds
Lavender	Medium	Linen spray, sachets	Generally pet-safe
Peppermint	High	Drain treatment, perimeter spray	Strong scent, use sparingly
Lemongrass	Medium-High	Room diffuser, vinegar trap enhancer	May irritate sensitive skin

Application method: For a basic gnat-repelling spray, mix 10-15 drops of essential oil with 1 cup of water and 1 tablespoon of alcohol (vodka or rubbing alcohol) in a spray bottle. Shake well before each use and spray around problem areas, avoiding direct contact with pets and children.

Essential oils work best as part of a comprehensive approach rather than a standalone solution. They excel at preventing gnats from establishing new breeding sites after you’ve eliminated existing populations with other methods.

Pet and Child-Safe Natural Gnat Solutions for Apartments

For apartments with children and pets, safety is as important as effectiveness. These natural solutions eliminate gnats without introducing risks to your household’s most vulnerable members.

When working with natural solutions in homes with pets and children, I always recommend an abundance of caution. Even natural ingredients can cause reactions in sensitive individuals. Here’s what I’ve found to be both effective and safe in my years of practice.

Carnivorous Plants: A Living Solution to Gnat Problems in Apartments

Carnivorous plants offer a fascinating, completely natural way to control gnats while adding interesting greenery to your apartment. These specialized plants actively trap and digest gnats as part of their normal biological processes.

Best carnivorous plants for gnat control:

• Sundews (Drosera): These plants have sticky tentacles that trap flying gnats. They’re small, perfect for apartment windowsills, and relatively easy to care for.
• Butterworts (Pinguicula): With sticky leaves that capture gnats on contact, these low-profile plants work well in small spaces and require minimal care.
• Pitcher Plants (Sarracenia): These larger plants use nectar to attract and trap gnats in their pitcher-shaped leaves. They need more space but are highly effective.

Care requirements: Most carnivorous plants need bright, indirect light, high humidity, and distilled or rain water (not tap water). They don’t need fertilizer as they get nutrients from the insects they capture.

For apartment settings, start with sundews or butterworts as they’re smaller and more tolerant of indoor conditions. A small collection near problem areas can significantly reduce flying gnat populations while serving as interesting conversation pieces.

While carnivorous plants won’t eliminate an infestation on their own, they’re excellent for maintenance after you’ve reduced numbers with other methods, and they’re completely safe around children and pets.

Safe Commercial Natural Products for Apartments with Children and Pets

When DIY solutions aren’t enough, these commercially available natural gnat control products offer effective solutions while maintaining the highest safety standards for households with children and pets.

Product Type	Safety Rating	Effectiveness	Best For
Sticky Traps (unscented)	High	Medium-High	Plant gnats, monitoring
Diatomaceous Earth (Food Grade)	High	Medium	Soil treatment
Beneficial Nematodes	Very High	High	Plant soil treatment
Cedar Oil Sprays	Medium-High	Medium	Surface treatment
UV Light Traps	High (if secured)	Medium-High	Flying adults

When selecting commercial products, look for these certifications:

• OMRI Listed (Organic Materials Review Institute)
• EPA Safer Choice
• EcoLogo Certified
• Products explicitly labeled as pet and child safe

Most natural commercial products work best as part of an integrated approach. For example, beneficial nematodes in plant soil combined with sticky traps for flying adults provides comprehensive protection while maintaining safety for household members.

Understanding how natural methods impact both larvae and adults is essential for complete gnat elimination, as most infestations require targeting both life stages.

Comprehensive Apartment Gnat Prevention System

Eliminating an active infestation is only the first step. This comprehensive prevention system adapts to apartment living constraints to ensure gnats don’t return.

Seasonal Gnat Prevention Calendar for Apartment Dwellers

Gnat populations follow seasonal patterns, even indoors. This monthly prevention calendar helps you stay ahead of potential problems throughout the year.

Spring (March-May):

• Inspect window seals and install screens before windows are opened
• Begin more frequent inspection of houseplants as growth resumes
• Deep clean kitchen areas as temperatures rise
• Place preventive traps near doors and windows

Summer (June-August):

• Check air conditioning units and condensation points
• Increase vigilance with fruit and produce storage
• Monitor soil moisture closely during peak growing season
• Apply preventive drain treatments twice monthly

Fall (September-November):

• Inspect plants brought in from outdoors
• Check holiday decorative plants for gnat activity
• Seal gaps around windows as they’re closed for season
• Deep clean before heating season begins

Winter (December-February):

• Monitor humidity levels in heated apartments
• Check holiday plants and fruit baskets
• Reduce plant watering frequency
• Inspect less-used drains and run water regularly

This seasonal approach acknowledges that different times of year present different challenges in apartment settings. By staying ahead of seasonal patterns, you can prevent most infestations before they begin.

Building-Wide Approaches: Working with Neighbors and Landlords

In apartment buildings, gnat problems can spread between units. This collaborative approach helps address building-wide issues while maintaining positive relationships with neighbors and management.

Signs of a building-wide issue:

• Sudden appearance of gnats with no obvious source in your unit
• Problems persist despite thorough treatment
• Multiple neighbors mentioning similar issues
• Gnats appearing near shared walls or ventilation

Landlord communication template:

“I’ve noticed an ongoing gnat issue in my apartment that persists despite thorough cleaning and prevention measures. Since these insects can travel between units through shared walls and ventilation, I wanted to check if other residents have reported similar concerns. Could the building consider inspection of common areas and shared systems that might be contributing to the problem?”

When approaching neighbors, focus on solving the shared problem rather than assigning blame. Suggest coordinated treatment days when everyone can apply similar methods for maximum effectiveness. Building-wide prevention often requires addressing structural issues like leaky pipes, common area drainage, or garbage disposal practices.

Troubleshooting Guide: When Natural Gnat Treatments Aren’t Working

Sometimes initial natural treatments don’t provide complete resolution. This troubleshooting guide helps identify why your approach might not be working and how to adjust for apartment-specific challenges.

Why Gnats Persist: Common Mistakes in Apartment Pest Control

If your natural gnat treatments aren’t producing results, you might be making one of these common mistakes that are particularly problematic in apartment environments.

Problem: Vinegar traps aren’t catching gnats
Solution: Use fresher vinegar, add fruit juice to increase attraction, or relocate traps closer to gnat activity zones.

Problem: Plant treatments haven’t stopped fungus gnats
Solution: You may be overwatering after treatment. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings and treat the drainage saucer as well.

Problem: Drain treatments seem ineffective
Solution: The biofilm may be deeper in the pipes. Use a small brush to physically clean drains first, then apply treatments more frequently.

Problem: Gnats return immediately after cleaning
Solution: You may have missed a hidden source. Check less obvious areas: houseplant saucers, refrigerator drip pans, under appliances, window tracks.

Problem: You’re treating fruit flies but have fungus gnats
Solution: Confirm gnat type using the identification guide and switch to appropriate treatment methods.

Problem: Treatments work temporarily but gnats return
Solution: You’re likely missing the egg or larval stage. Implement a 2-3 week consistent treatment plan to break the reproductive cycle completely.

Common hidden sources in apartments include condensation from air conditioners, water in light fixtures, leak points under sinks, gaps around pipes, and even damp spots in carpeting. A systematic inspection can reveal these less obvious breeding sites.

When to Consider Professional Help for Apartment Gnat Problems

While most gnat problems can be resolved naturally, some situations warrant professional intervention. These signs indicate when it’s time to consult a professional pest management service.

• Infestations persist after 3-4 weeks of consistent treatment
• Gnats are found in unusual locations suggesting hidden moisture problems
• You’ve identified all possible sources but cannot access them
• The problem appears to originate in structural elements (walls, ceilings)
• Health concerns arise from the persistent presence of gnats
• You suspect the issue may be a different pest misidentified as gnats

When selecting a professional service, ask these questions:

• “Do you offer natural or low-toxicity treatment options?”
• “What specific methods will you use in an apartment setting?”
• “Are your treatments safe for plants, pets, and children?”
• “Will you identify the root cause or just treat symptoms?”
• “What preventive guidance will you provide after treatment?”

Many professional services now offer eco-friendly options that use similar principles to the natural methods in this guide but with professional-grade formulations and application equipment. For comprehensive solutions to various household pests, this definitive natural pest control handbook provides valuable guidance.

Comparative Analysis: Effectiveness of Natural Gnat Control Methods for Apartments

Not all natural gnat solutions are equally effective in all situations. This data-driven comparison helps you select the most appropriate method for your specific apartment gnat problem.

Method	Fruit Flies	Fungus Gnats	Drain Flies	Setup Time	Cost	Pet Safety
ACV Trap	5/5	3/5	2/5	5 min	$	High
H₂O₂ Soil Drench	1/5	5/5	1/5	10 min	$	Medium
Baking Soda/Vinegar Drain	1/5	1/5	4/5	5 min	$	High
Sticky Traps	3/5	4/5	2/5	2 min	$$	Medium*
Essential Oil Spray	3/5	2/5	3/5	10 min	$$	Low-Med**
Carnivorous Plants	2/5	3/5	1/5	None	$$$	Very High
Beneficial Nematodes	1/5	5/5	1/5	15 min	$$$	Very High

* If placed out of reach
** Varies by specific oil and concentration

Best combinations for severe infestations:

• Fruit Fly Invasion: ACV traps + essential oil barriers + deep cleaning
• Fungus Gnat Problem: H₂O₂ soil drench + sticky traps + beneficial nematodes
• Drain Fly Issue: Drain treatment + sticky traps + regular maintenance
• Mixed/Unknown Type: Multiple trap types + comprehensive cleaning + preventive measures

For most apartment situations, a combination approach yields the fastest and most complete results. Start with methods targeting adult gnats for immediate relief, followed by methods addressing eggs and larvae for long-term prevention.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: Natural vs. Chemical Solutions for Apartment Gnats

When evaluating gnat control options, cost is an important consideration. This analysis compares the true costs and benefits of natural methods versus conventional chemical approaches in apartment settings.

Cost comparison:

• DIY Natural Solutions: $5-20 for most homemade traps and treatments
• Commercial Natural Products: $15-40 for sticky traps, nematodes, etc.
• Chemical Sprays/Foggers: $8-30 per application
• Professional Treatment: $100-300 per visit

Hidden costs of chemical methods:

• Temporary relocation during application
• Potential damage to plants, fabrics, or surfaces
• Risk to security deposit from residues
• Possible health impacts requiring medical attention
• Pet boarding during treatment periods

Long-term cost analysis: Natural methods often have higher upfront costs but lower recurring expenses. A one-time investment in quality sticky traps, beneficial nematodes, or carnivorous plants can provide months of protection, while chemical sprays typically require frequent reapplication.

From a value perspective, natural methods offer additional benefits beyond pest control: they’re educational (especially for households with children), environmentally responsible, and often serve multiple purposes (like carnivorous plants that are both decorative and functional).

Apartment-Specific Effectiveness Ratings by Gnat Type

Different natural solutions perform differently depending on which gnat type you’re targeting. This apartment-specific effectiveness matrix shows which methods work best for each common gnat variety.

Method	Fruit Flies	Fungus Gnats	Drain Flies	Phorid Flies	Timeline
Vinegar Traps	★★★★★	★★★☆☆	★★☆☆☆	★★★☆☆	1-3 days
Sticky Traps	★★★☆☆	★★★★☆	★★☆☆☆	★★★☆☆	1-2 weeks
Soil Treatments	★☆☆☆☆	★★★★★	★☆☆☆☆	★☆☆☆☆	7-10 days
Drain Treatments	★☆☆☆☆	★☆☆☆☆	★★★★★	★★★☆☆	3-7 days
Essential Oils	★★★☆☆	★★☆☆☆	★★★☆☆	★★★☆☆	Immediate
Carnivorous Plants	★★☆☆☆	★★★☆☆	★☆☆☆☆	★★☆☆☆	Ongoing
Food Storage Changes	★★★★★	★☆☆☆☆	★☆☆☆☆	★★☆☆☆	3-5 days

Best combination approaches:

For unidentified or mixed gnat issues, start with sticky traps in different locations to determine which type predominates, then focus on the most effective methods for that specific type. In apartments, a combination of adult trapping methods and breeding site elimination provides the most reliable results.

Success indicators vary by method but generally include: dramatically reduced visible gnats within 3-5 days, no new gnats emerging after 7-10 days, and complete elimination within 2-3 weeks (one full lifecycle).

Expert Q&A: Common Questions About Natural Gnat Control in Apartments

We’ve consulted entomologists and pest control specialists who focus on urban environments to answer the most common questions about natural gnat control specific to apartment living.

Q: How long should it take to eliminate gnats completely from my apartment?
A: Complete elimination typically takes 2-3 weeks when using consistent natural methods. This timeframe accounts for the entire gnat lifecycle, ensuring all eggs have hatched and been addressed. You should see significant reduction within 3-5 days of implementing proper controls. If gnats persist beyond 3 weeks of diligent treatment, you likely have a hidden source or building-wide issue.

Q: Will essential oils harm my pets?
A: Some essential oils can be toxic to pets, particularly cats and birds. Tea tree, pine, citrus, and eucalyptus oils should be used with extreme caution in homes with cats. For dogs, cinnamon and clove oils pose the highest risk. Always dilute oils properly, ensure good ventilation, and keep pets away from treated areas until dry. Consider using vinegar-based traps instead in homes with sensitive pets.

Q: Can I prevent gnats while I’m away from my apartment for extended periods?
A: Yes, with proper preparation. Before leaving, clean all drains with the baking soda/vinegar method, empty all trash, refrigerate or remove all produce, allow plant soil to dry completely, and place preventive traps in key areas. Consider asking a friend to water plants from the bottom only and empty trap contents halfway through your absence.

Q: Why do my houseplants keep getting fungus gnats despite treatment?
A: The most common reason is overwatering after treatment. Fungus gnats require moist soil to reproduce, so allowing the top 1-2 inches to dry completely between waterings is crucial. Other possibilities include reinfection from neighboring plants, eggs surviving in the lower soil, or purchasing soil that contains eggs or larvae. Try repotting with sterile soil and treating with hydrogen peroxide solution.

Q: How can I tell if gnats are coming from my neighbors’ apartments?
A: Place sticky traps near shared walls, ventilation ducts, and entry doors. If these traps catch significantly more gnats than those placed near your potential sources (plants, kitchen, bathroom), the infestation likely originates elsewhere. Another indicator is sudden appearance of gnats with no obvious source in your unit, particularly if you’ve been diligent about prevention.

Complete Action Plan: Eliminating and Preventing Gnats in Your Apartment Naturally

This comprehensive, step-by-step action plan brings together all the natural methods we’ve discussed, creating a systematic approach to eliminating current gnat problems and preventing future infestations in your apartment.

Phase 1: Identification and Assessment (Day 1)

1. Place sticky traps in different areas to identify gnat type and concentration
2. Inspect all potential breeding sites: plants, drains, food storage, moisture points
3. Document problem areas and gnat activity patterns
4. Assemble supplies for appropriate treatment methods

Phase 2: Immediate Control (Days 1-3)

1. Set up vinegar traps near high-activity areas
2. Treat drains with baking soda/vinegar solution
3. Apply hydrogen peroxide solution to plant soil if fungus gnats are present
4. Remove all exposed food sources and improve storage
5. Clean all moisture-prone areas thoroughly

Phase 3: Breeding Site Elimination (Days 4-7)

1. Apply longer-term soil treatments like beneficial nematodes or diatomaceous earth
2. Install drain covers on all sinks
3. Adjust plant watering schedules and methods
4. Apply preventive essential oil barriers where appropriate
5. Repeat drain treatments

Phase 4: Monitoring and Adjustment (Days 8-14)

1. Check and refresh traps as needed
2. Note any continuing activity patterns
3. Intensify treatment in persistent problem areas
4. Consider more specialized treatments if initial methods show limited success
5. Implement longer-term solutions like carnivorous plants

Phase 5: Prevention Implementation (Days 15+)

1. Establish regular maintenance schedule for potential breeding sites
2. Create a seasonal prevention calendar
3. Install permanent preventive measures (drain covers, proper food storage)
4. Maintain monitoring traps in discrete locations
5. Adjust houseplant care routines permanently

Success Metrics:

• 50% reduction in visible gnats within 3 days
• 90% reduction within 7 days
• No new gnats emerging after 14 days
• Complete elimination within 21 days (one full lifecycle)

Remember that consistent application is key to success. A partial approach may provide temporary relief but won’t solve the problem permanently. By following this systematic plan, you’ll not only eliminate current gnats but create an environment that prevents future infestations.

With these natural, apartment-friendly solutions, you can reclaim your living space from gnats without resorting to harsh chemicals or expensive professional services. The methods in this guide respect the constraints of apartment living while providing effective, safe pest management that protects you, your family, and your home environment.