10 ways to spider-proof your house

The summer is almost at an end, and autumn brings with it something we dread every year… big creepy spiders! Experts are predicting huge spiders this year, up to 12cm, almost the size of mice!

As much as we are scared of these hairy beasts, there are ways you can prevent them from entering your home.

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!

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.

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.

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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.

5. Get a Pet – Dogs and cats usually like to chase anything that moves, that includes spiders.

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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.

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.

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