Maegan-Leigh JacobsEven though most spiders are harmless, it’s pretty common for folks to freak out when they find one in their home. As the weather starts changing, you’ll probably notice more spiders creeping about inside your home to escape the rain from warmer weather.
But no worries, there are lots of ways to keep these eight-legged intruders at bay, without anyone being harmed! The best approach to dealing with spiders in your home is to prevent them from getting inside in the first place. To achieve that, there are several harmless deterrents you can use around your home!
Seal the gaps
If you’re determined to keep those sneaky spiders out, it’s essential to acknowledge their ability to squeeze through even the tiniest gaps in your home. So, consider taking a closer look around your house to identify and seal any potential entry points that might be tempting to spiders.
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Special attention should be given to moisture-prone areas like the kitchen, attic, and bathrooms, which are attractive hiding spots for spiders. Additionally, ensure that your window frames are properly sealed. You can also include excluder strips at the bottom of doors to keep spiders out.
While these tasks may involve some DIY, they offer a more long-lasting solution compared to other methods, as they effectively block spiders from entering at the source.
Essential oil to the rescue
For an effective home remedy to repel spiders, the key ingredient is the right essential oil – peppermint oil!
Spiders detect scents through their legs, and the potent scent of peppermint drives them away due to its overpowering nature.
Create a peppermint oil spray by mixing about 20 drops of peppermint essential oil with water in a spray bottle. This spray should be applied to areas of your home where spiders tend to gather. However, it’s important to exercise caution because peppermint oil can be toxic to pets. If you have furry friends, it’s best to avoid using this method!
This mixture can be used to deter spiders without causing harm to them by spraying it into cracks and corners of your house. Alternatively, you can use it to spray on your duvet to discourage spiders from entering your bed. Moreover, this natural method can also be applied to deal with flies if you have them buzzing around your home.
Citronella is the secret
Not only do citronella candles help to repel mosquitoes and wasps in the warmer months, these fragrant candles can also help keep spiders at bay!
Lighting citronella candles can deter spiders from your home because they dislike various scents, including lemon, cinnamon, and citronella. Additionally, spiders are averse to the smell of smoke, so extinguishing these candles can further aid in keeping them away.
To maximise effectiveness, place candles on windowsills since windows are common entry points for spiders. Remember, never leave a burning candle unattended!
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Keep your windows squeaky clean
Cleaning windows serves a dual purpose beyond enhancing visibility; it can also play a role in preventing spiders from taking shelter in and around your house. Spiders often lay their eggs in a sac, which they secure in place with sticky silk around windows and doors. By using a hard bristle brush to remove these egg sacs, you can help keep spider populations in check in your home.
Vinegar spritz
White vinegar is an excellent natural spider repellent due to its acetic acid content, which spiders are highly sensitive to. What’s more, white vinegar is a common household item that is non-toxic to pets and poses no harmful effects.
For an effective spider deterrent, mix equal parts water and vinegar and spraying this solution over areas such as windows, your kitchen, and other entry points where bugs and spiders may be sneaking in. Many households already have this versatile store cupboard essential readily available, as vinegar is a multipurpose solution for a wide range of tasks, including cleaning bathrooms and walls!
Powdered orange peels
If you’re searching for a natural, floor-friendly way to keep spiders away without the need for extensive cleaning, start saving your orange peels! Sun-dried citrus peels, like those from oranges, can serve as a natural and safe repellent for spiders, suitable for households with pets and children.
To use them effectively, grind the dried peels into a fine powder using a good food processor. Then, simply sprinkle this citrus powder in the corners of rooms with wooden floors. Spiders are believed to dislike the scent of citrus, making this natural solution a helpful tool for keeping them at bay.
There are already spiders in my home, what now?
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Taking a humane approach to dealing with spiders in your home is highly recommended by experts. There’s typically no need to harm the eight-legged intruders, rather opt for gently relocating them.
The best way to handle spiders found indoors is to carefully pick them up and transfer them outside. A common technique involves using a glass to trap the spider, then gently sliding a piece of card or firm paper underneath to provide a stable base. Once the spider is securely contained within the glass, it can be safely transported and released outdoors.
Even for those who are not fond of spiders, it’s a practical and compassionate way to address their presence in your home, although you might need a moment to overcome the initial hesitation or discomfort when trapping them under the glass.
Remember that spiders catch all sorts of bugs that may enter your abode, so maybe it’s worth letting them stay for a while, if they aren’t bothering you!
Feature Image: Pexels
Compiled by: Savanna Douglas for Woman&Home.
