Pest experts have identified peppermint oil as the most effective natural spider deterrent, with a diluted spray applied along skirting boards, window sills, and door frames creating a barrier that spiders actively avoid. This advice comes as spiders are more likely to enter homes during the autumn in search of food and refuge from the weather.
Mosh Latifi, co-owner of EcoCare Pest Management, said: "Peppermint oil is the most effective natural spider deterrent available and the one I consistently recommend above anything else. Spiders have taste receptors on their feet as well as scent receptors, which means the menthol compounds in peppermint oil are deeply unpleasant to them on contact rather than simply in the air."
He added that the spray is available in every supermarket and health food shop, costs very little, and doubles as a pleasant household scent. Used consistently through September and October at the peak of spider mating season, it significantly reduces the number making their way indoors.
Experts endorse peppermint spray
Andrew Pemberton, a chartered building engineer and senior manager of surveying at The Professional Snagging Company, agreed, describing peppermint as "key" when it comes to keeping spiders at bay. He said: "Peppermint spray is the key. It's easy to order this item online and is a proven method of deterring spiders. One spray can provide repelling effects for up to six months, so you don't have to worry about the critters for the rest of the year. I'd just give every potential entry a quick spray at the start of autumn, such as doors and windowsills, and that's it."
For those who cannot find peppermint oil, several other botanical oils can serve as equally effective deterrents. Heather Nixon, sustainability manager at Bio-D, said: "Spiders rely heavily on their sensory systems to navigate their surroundings, so my go-to trick during spider season is to use strong botanical aromas, such as eucalyptus, to make certain areas around the home less appealing to them."
Other scents and practical tips
Nixon noted that botanical aromas such as eucalyptus, peppermint, and tea tree are commonly used to discourage spiders, but added that scent alone is not a guaranteed solution. Keeping rooms tidy, removing old webs, and sealing gaps around windows, doors, and pipework can also help make your home less attractive and accessible to spiders.
James Higgins, head of e-commerce at Online Carpets, mentioned several scents spiders dislike, including cinnamon, mint, lavender, and lemon. He suggested placing cinnamon sticks around the home or using a scented candle, as well as potting lavender or mint plants on windowsills. He also recommended rubbing lemon peels over windowsills, skirting boards, or shelves to deter spiders.
Charlotte Payne, cleaning expert at B&Q, highlighted lavender as a worthy alternative, noting that a targeted but harmless deterrent can be sprayed around potential entry points. She advised reapplying after cleaning for the best results and suggested placing lavender near windows as a natural deterrent.
Chris Houghton, home expert at HomeServe, debunked the popular belief that conkers repel spiders, calling it an old wives' tale. Instead, he recommended mixing equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and spritzing directly on spiders, webs, or in places where they are found, as white vinegar contains acetic acid which is harmful to spiders.
