Spider season is at its peak this October, and pest control experts have shared a simple, natural method to keep giant spiders out of homes: placing peppermint oil near entry points. The advice comes as the height of spider mating season means households are likely to see more of the eight-legged visitors.
By autumn, spiders have completed their growth and reached full adult size, so some noticeably large specimens may be creeping around. With recent rainfall and dropping temperatures, spiders are seeking warm, sheltered and undisturbed spots, while males are also on the hunt for mates.
Expert advice on sealing gaps
Adam Juson, co-founder and director of commercial pest control specialists Merlin Environmental, explained that harsh chemicals or expensive treatments are not needed to keep spiders away. A few straightforward changes will suffice.
First, it is advisable to seal any gaps. Spiders can squeeze through surprisingly small openings, so begin by checking entry points.
He said: "Take a look for gaps and cracks around window frames, underneath doors and anywhere pipes or cables enter your home. Sealing them will have more impact than anything else."
How to use peppermint oil
Peppermint oil is another alternative for making your home less appealing to spiders. "Regularly spraying diluted peppermint oil around windowsills, doorframes and skirting boards actually works," Adam added. "And it's non-toxic, so it's better for you and your home."
Peppermint oil serves as a natural spider repellent because its powerful menthol and monoterpene compounds overwhelm the sensitive sensory and smell organs found on their legs. Ensure you dilute it prior to use and apply it regularly to maintain its efficacy.
Combine one cup of water with 15 to 20 drops of pure peppermint essential oil. A small amount of liquid dish soap can also be added, should you wish. Decant the mixture into a spray bottle and apply it to windowsills, door frames, skirting boards, dark corners and any cracks through which pests might gain entry. Alternatively, a few drops of oil can be placed onto cotton wool balls and tucked into tight spaces or corners.
What draws them in
Adam explained: "Spiders also come indoors looking for food. So, if you have flies, moths and other small insects around, spiders will follow them in."
Keeping insects at bay can be a challenge, but maintaining clean bins, fitting window screens and eliminating any standing water are all effective methods of making your home less appealing to them. Moving garden lights away from doors and windows can also make a considerable difference.
Clearing out their preferred hiding spots is another worthwhile step, as is regular hoovering. He said: "Spiders search for mates by following silk trails. The more regularly you vacuum, the fewer trails they have to follow."
Prevention always beats chemicals, so making your home less appealing to spiders is preferable to tackling them once they are inside. If you own pets, bear in mind that the oil is best avoided around cats and dogs.
