10 ways to spider-proof your house
If you're not a fan of creepy crawlies...
September is the month for mating season for a lot of common house spiders, you may have noticed a slight increase in creepy crawlies entering our homes.
If you're not a fan of having spiders around your house, we've got a few (humane!) ways of kindly removing them from your home... Just make sure you double-check that whatever method you use is safe for any household pets!
1) Lemon peels
Spiders hate the smell of citrus fruits such as lemons, limes and oranges. Rubbing some lemon peels along the window sills and door frames will put spiders off entering your room. Even using lemon-scented furniture polish can drive spiders away! However, don't put lemons out if you have cats or dogs.
2) Peppermint Oil
This makes a surprisingly great, natural bug repellent. Not only do spiders hate it, but most other small bugs too. Dilute with some water, and spray everywhere you usually find spiders.
If you have cats and dogs then use another method, as this can be toxic.
3) Keep your house clutter-free
Spiders are hunters, so they like to hide and wait in places that are out of sight. They will hide under boxes, and other objects that are left sitting there. Keep your home dust-free and keep your floor free from boxes and packages to avoid them spinning webs.
4) Conkers
Chestnuts are well know spider repellents, plus they making some great autumnal decoration in your home. Lay a row of them along window sills and skirting boards to stop spiders coming in. However, using conkers isn't recommended for those with dogs as they can cause serious blockages if swallowed. They also contain a chemical called aesculin, which is toxic to dogs
5) Get a pet
Dogs and cats usually like to chase anything that moves, that includes spiders.
6) Close windows at night
Spiders are mostly nocturnal creatures. Keeping your windows open at night will encourage them to crawl in to hunt for food and mates. Keep windows and doors closed and well-sealed.
7) White vinegar
Keeping spiders away with vinegar is much like repelling them with peppermint oil. Fill a spray bottle with vinegar and water, and spray all the cracks and window sills around your home. Again, if you have pets then this wouldn't be an advisable method.
8) Limit lights
Spiders are drawn to light, and flies and moths are ideal spider prey, so turn outside lights off and don't have windows open when your room lights are on at night.
9) Remove webs
Do this regularly, remembering to check the corners of the ceiling and rooms.
10) Limit spider food
Clear away any dead flies, or other small crawling insects from your doorways and window sills.