As spider season approaches in the UK, a cleaning expert has shared a simple natural method to keep spiders out of homes: wiping doors and doorframes with lavender oil.
Expert shares natural spider deterrent
Chantel Mila, a cleaning expert based in Australia, recently posted a TikTok video detailing five cleaning hacks that "everyone should know but no-one ever teaches you." One of the tips focused on keeping spiders away naturally.
Mila urged people to wipe down their doors, doorframes, and other obvious entry points with lavender oil. Just a few drops on a cloth provide a strong enough scent to deter spiders from entering, she said. The trick requires no pricey equipment or harsh chemical products, making it suitable for homes with pets or young children.
Why lavender repels spiders
According to experts at Snug Scent, lavender oil acts as a natural deterrent for spiders due to its powerful fragrance. Spiders hate the intense scent and will typically avoid areas where it is present.
They added: "Using lavender oil in a diffuser or as a spray around the home not only keeps spiders at bay but also provides a calming environment for you and your family. It’s perfect for bedrooms and other areas where you seek relaxation and peace."
Daniel Steward, managing director at Shield Pest Control, explained that lavender's sweet yet sharp, floral fragrance disrupts spiders' ability to track scent trails, which they use for navigation and communication. He said: "Lavender’s aroma disrupts spiders’ ability to track scent trails, which they use for navigation and communication. This confusion makes it harder for spiders to find safe nesting locations, discouraging them from staying in the area. Furthermore, some compounds in lavender oil have mild insect-repellent properties, adding to its effectiveness."
Other natural spider repellents
Lavender is not the only natural deterrent. Peppermint oil can also work well. A 2018 study found that "volatiles released by mint oil and chestnuts may be effective in deterring spider settlement in two different families of spiders."
A DIY solution can be made by mixing a few drops of peppermint oil with water and dish soap, ready to spray around windows and doors. Citrus scents, like oranges and limes, are also confusing and irritating for spiders. Mixing citrus oil with white vinegar and water makes another effective spider repellent that can be sprayed anywhere spiders should stay away from.
