Growing up, I was terrified of spiders. I don’t know if it was made worse by watching the movie Arachnophobia or the fear has always been there – but I can definitely remember the nightmares after the film and have declared myself an Arachnophobia sufferer ever since!
The dreaded spider season falls between September and October over here in the UK. During this time, many of us find our homes becoming unwelcome havens for these eight-legged visitors. While spiders are important to maintaining ecosystems and of course mostly harmless, it’s understandable that not everyone wants to share their living space with them.
Fortunately, there are plenty of natural ways to keep spiders at bay without resorting to harsh chemicals.
1. The Spider Catcher: A Humane Solution
I’m fully against killing spiders – although I don’t love them, they play an important role in the ecosystem. That’s why the spider catcher is a perfect tool for me.
This clever gadget allows you to pick up spiders from a safe distance and release them outside without harm. It’s an eco-friendly and humane way to manage spider encounters.
You can pick one up for around £10.00 – £15.00 – and they are far more risk free than the old paper and cup method I grew up with. Take a look for them on Amazon. .
2. Essential Oils: Tea Tree, Peppermint, and Lavender
Spiders are not fans of strong scents, making essential oils like tea tree, peppermint, and lavender effective natural deterrents.
Simply add 20 drops of your chosen oil to a spray bottle filled with water, and spritz it around your home—especially in corners, around windows, and near entryways.
Tip: Rotate the oils every few weeks to maintain their effectiveness. However, be cautious if you have pets, as some essential oils can be toxic to them too.
3. Cinnamon: A Sweet-Smelling Spider Repellent
Cinnamon’s warm, spicy aroma is a delight for us, but spiders find it repulsive. Sprinkle ground cinnamon or place cinnamon sticks around your home, particularly in areas where spiders are likely to enter. Not only will it keep spiders away, but it will also leave your home smelling wonderful.
4. Vinegar Spray: A Simple and Effective Solution
Vinegar is a versatile household staple, and it’s also a powerful spider deterrent. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle, and apply it to the corners and crevices of your home. The strong smell of vinegar disrupts a spider’s sensory reception, encouraging them to stay away.
5. Clean and Declutter: Remove Hiding Spots
One of the simplest ways to reduce the number of spiders in your home is to keep it clean and clutter-free.
Regularly vacuum and dust to remove webs and eggs, and reduce the number of hiding spots by decluttering spaces like basements, attics, and closets. The less clutter, the fewer places spiders have to hide.
6. Plant Spider-Repelling Greenery
If you have space in your garden, planting a eucalyptus tree can help deter spiders from entering your home. No room for a tree? No problem—lavender, mint, and other aromatic plants like rosemary can be just as effective when planted under windows or placed in pots near entry points.
These plants naturally repel spiders and add beauty to your garden.
7. Citrus: Use Citronella Candles or Lemon-Scented Sprays
Spiders have a strong dislike for citrus scents, making citronella candles and lemon-scented cleaning sprays excellent choices for keeping them away.
Light a citronella candle near windows and doors, or use lemon-scented sprays on surfaces where spiders might crawl. It’s a fresh-smelling way to spider-proof your home.
8. Conkers: A Traditional Yet Unproven Method
While not scientifically proven, many people swear by placing conkers (horse chestnuts) around their home to deter spiders.
Though the jury is still out on their effectiveness, it’s worth a try—just be mindful that conkers do contain a mild toxin, so keep them out of reach of pets and children.
My Mother-in-Law swears by this one!
9. Cedar Wood Products
Cedar wood is a natural spider repellent thanks to its strong aroma. Keep cedar wood blocks, hangers, or chips around your home, especially in closets and storage areas. Over time, the scent may fade, so lightly sand the wood every few months to refresh its aroma and keep spiders at bay.
10. Keep Outdoor Bins Away from the House
Outdoor bins can attract flies and other insects, which in turn attract spiders. To reduce the number of spiders around your home, keep your bins as far from the house as possible. This simple step can make a big difference in preventing spiders from finding their way inside.
11. Empty Indoor Bins Regularly
Just like outdoor bins, indoor rubbish bins can draw in flies and other pests, creating a spider-friendly environment. Make it a habit to empty your indoor bins regularly, especially in the kitchen and bathroom, to reduce the chances of attracting spiders into your home.
12. Seal External Cracks and Gaps
Spiders often enter homes through small cracks and gaps in walls, windows, and doors. Inspect your home for any potential entry points and seal them to prevent spiders from getting in.
If you’re unsure about the safety or structural integrity of sealing cracks, consult a professional for an inspection.
How Do You Keep Spiders Out of Your Home?
There’s no need to share your home with spiders this season. With these natural tips, you can create a spider-free sanctuary without resorting to harsh chemicals.
Have you tried any of these methods? How do you keep spiders out of your home?
