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Spider season is upon us: how to keep your home a spider-free zone
As spider season looms, humankinds eight-legged adversaries are preparing to invade our homes. But arachnophobes fear not, there are a few easy ways you can prevent the pitter-patter of tiny spider feet.
Male spiders are the ones you might spot scuttling across the living room floor, while their female counterparts lurk in plug holes and garage corners. As it turns out, they are waiting for more than just food.
Unfortunately for arachnophobes, September is spider mating season, and, even worse, they prefer to procreate within the toasty confines of our homes. And you cant really blame them, given the wet, blustery tail-end of summer many of us are experiencing.
But if you really dont want to share your home with arachnids, here are some methods to keep them firmly on the other side of the door.
Keep your house tidy
Keeping a tidy home means there will be fewer nooks and crannies for spiders to hide in. And whats more, less chance to scuttle out unexpectedly.
Dust regularly
Make sure you give corners and other furniture a regular dusting. Where theres dust, there be cobwebs. And we all know what that means.
Collect conkers
If you needed the perfect adult excuse to collect conkers, then spider-proofing is it. Conkers are said to contain noxious chemicals which keep them at bay. Although there is no scientific proof to support this, I have personally had friends attest to this method.
Spray peppermint
Mix peppermint essential oil and water to create a spray to ward off spiders and other teeny stowaways. The sharp scent of peppermint is widely thought to deter mice, rats and squirrels, as well as spiders.
Scatter orange peel
Citrus is another scent said to keep unwanted tenants away. Rub orange peel along windowsills and around plug holes, or better yet add it to a vinegar spray for maximum intensity.
Seal up cracks
Spiders love a good crack, either to hide in or as a way of tunnelling undetected into your home.
Dont turn out the lights
Darkness and spiders go hand in hand for a reason: they like dark places where they can rest undisturbed, and lie in wait for unsuspecting prey.
Use the power of cedar
This pleasant woody scent is another no-no where spiders are concerned. Sprinkle chips or place blocks around your home to keep the beasties away.
Keep outdoor lights off
Flies and moths, both spider staples, are attracted to electric lights. The more insects hovering around, the more spiders are likely to be lurking.
Purchase a spider-catcher: If all else fails, these handy contraptions make capturing even out-of-reach spiders easy, while keeping them at arms-length. The bristles open and trap the spider until released (preferably far, far away).
Although myths of biting and accidental ingestion abound, most house spider species, especially in the UK, are entirely harmless. They also regulate volumes of pesky parasites and insects, including mosquitoes, and aphids the gardener’s number one enemy. With that in mind, prevention is definitely key. And hopefully weve provided you with more than enough ammo to fend off an eight-legged incursion.
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