Spider season begins at the end of summer in the UK, lasting until mid-October or November. Autumn marks the peak breeding period, when mature males leave their dark hideaways and webs to actively roam homes and buildings in search of female partners.
Key Prevention Tips from Pest UK
Pest UK has shared top tips for preventing spiders from entering homes during autumn and winter. The two main things to ensure are keeping your home clutter-free and vacuuming regularly.
Other ways to avoid finding spiders around the house include using strong smells to deter them and keeping windows closed at night.
Natural Deterrents and Practical Measures
Strong smells are a natural way to deter spiders. Smells such as lemon, lime, oranges, or anything with a strong citrus aroma help repel spiders. Eucalyptus oil, tea tree oil, or peppermint oil also work. Vinegar is another strong scent, though most people are not keen on vinegar lingering around their homes. Rub or spray these scents around window sills and doors to help prevent spiders from entering.
Most cats and dogs enjoy a game of chase when they spot a spider. Although pets will not eliminate an entire infestation, they will help get rid of the odd few around the house.
Additional Advice
Most spiders are nocturnal, so keep windows and doors closed while you sleep to prevent them from getting in at night. Just like moths, spiders are drawn to light, so turn outside lights off when not in use and keep doors and windows closed or blinds shut when lights are on inside.
Spiders like to hide in places out of sight, such as boxes and packages while they wait for prey. Keep your home tidy and free of clutter that could encourage spiders to take residence. Check rooms regularly, particularly corners, for spider webs and remove them wherever found. Remove any dead flies or other creepy crawlies from doorways and window sills, as these attract spiders. Vacuum regularly and thoroughly, taking special care in awkward spots behind cupboards, in dark corners, and under sofas where spiders like to hide. Check that there are no gaps or cracks in walls, pipework, doors, door frames, and windows, and seal or fill any cracks to prevent spiders from moving in.
An old wives' tale suggests spiders do not like conkers. While there is no evidence to back this up, a row of conkers on the window sill still makes a festive autumn decoration.
Advice from Pest UK said: "If you do see a spider in the house, put a container over it, scoop it up with a card, and put it outside. If you’re having a major problem with spiders, we do offer treatment. Give our team a call for some help and advice." More information is available on the Pest UK website.
