As temperatures drop, spiders often wander indoors seeking shelter, and the September–October mating season can bring more of them into homes. A £1 spice already in many kitchen cupboards could help keep them out.
Cinnamon as a natural spider deterrent
Instead of buying bug sprays and repellents, which can be harmful to pets and may not always work, scattering ground cinnamon in key areas around the home can help. It should be sprinkled in corners, crevices and spots where spider webs are common.
Pest control expert Jordan Foster said: "Ground cinnamon is a natural repellent to carpenter ants and other bugs that may roam the kitchen." The spice works because of its strong scent and powdery texture. Foster added: "You can use cinnamon on any indoor or outdoor space as protection against pest infestations."
Alternative options and other scents
If scattering the spice is not appealing, cinnamon essential oils or scented candles can have the same effect, adding fragrance while keeping spiders away. Several other aromas also deter spiders and are worth trying.
- Peppermint oil – the strong minty scent is used as a "barrier" smell; dilute in water and mist around windows, doors and skirting boards.
- Tea tree oil – pungent and long-lasting; use a diluted spray around entry points and dark corners, but patch test surfaces first.
- Cedarwood – cedar blocks and chips placed in wardrobes and storage areas make hiding spots less appealing.
- Citrus – rubbing peel along windowsills and thresholds leaves a residue that deters pests, but it fades quickly and needs repeating.
- White vinegar – a common DIY deterrent spray mixed with water works on frames and corners, but avoid using it on natural stone or delicate finishes.
