Households across the UK are being urged to place orange peel near windows, doors, and in bins to keep spiders away, according to experts. While peak spider season typically begins in early September, warmer summer weather can draw spiders out of hiding, as an abundance of flies and ants provides ample food. Hot temperatures also cause eggs laid in previous seasons to hatch, leading to more spider sightings indoors.
Common Spider Species in UK Homes
Several spider species can be found inside UK homes, with the most common being house spiders. Others include cellar spiders, lace web spiders, and false widows, which have shiny brown bodies and a slightly rounded shape. Spiders enter homes through cracks, gaps, open windows, doors, or are brought in on plants or clothing.
Simple Prevention Methods
An easy solution to keep spiders out is to keep doors and windows closed, especially when lights are on, and to fill any gaps or cracks. However, an extra layer of defence involves using orange peel. Spiders have a sensitive sense of smell and dislike strong citrus scents due to their pungent aroma.
Enviroliteracy stated in its online advice: "Orange peels can help to repel spiders. Spiders are known to dislike strong citrus scents and the compounds found in orange peels can be an effective, natural deterrent. While not a guaranteed solution for complete spider eradication, using orange peels is a low-cost and environmentally friendly way to make your home less attractive to these eight-legged visitors. Spiders rely heavily on their senses, particularly the tiny hairs on their legs, to detect vibrations and smells. Strong odours, like those emitted by citrus fruits, can overwhelm their senses, causing them to avoid the area."
How to Use Orange Peel Effectively
To use orange peel as a deterrent, place the peel at key entry points such as windowsills, doorways, and inside bins. The strong scent should help keep spiders away. Additionally, using citrus-scented cleaners around the home or a few drops of orange essential oil near windows and doors can discourage spiders. Alternatively, make a homemade solution by soaking orange peels in boiling water with a few drops of essential oil overnight, then transfer the mixture into a spray bottle. Spray this solution around entry points, including windows, doorways, and cracks.
Lake Norman Pest added: "If you have oranges at home and you tend to throw the peels, better stop doing it, especially if you have spiders at home. Orange peels help in repelling spiders, and it will not cost you much. The crawling insect is not friends with citrus scents, and it can be the most effective solution for your problem. You only have to cut the peel in chunks and place it inside a container with boiling water. Soak the orange peel overnight and place the extract on a bottle and spray it on places where spiders are usually hiding. If you don't have orange peels, you can also use grapefruit and lemon. Whatever citrus fruits you have, spiders don't like it, and you can use it to drive them away completely."
By using this cheap kitchen scrap, households can naturally deter spiders without resorting to chemicals.
