Households are being urged to spray a simple water and vinegar solution to keep spiders out of their homes as the arachnids begin their annual return. Spiders typically start entering homes from mid to late August, with numbers peaking in September as mating season begins, when males venture indoors in search of females.
Larger spider species on the rise
Those with arachnophobia may face additional concerns, as larger spiders are set to become an increasingly familiar sight across the UK. The RSPB recently reported that Britain's largest spider species – fen raft spiders, which can grow to the size of rats and are known to hunt fish – are staging a comeback. Giant false widow spiders are also poised to begin invading households within weeks, with bites that can inflict painful burning sensations, swelling, and may even trigger a fever.
Simple kitchen cupboard deterrent
According to specialists speaking to House Beautiful, a simple mixture of water and vinegar is sufficient to deter the arachnids. The magazine stated: "Spiders are sensitive to vinegar's odour and sour taste, making it another brilliant natural deterrent. To repel spiders from the nooks and crannies of your house, simply spritz a little vinegar and water solution in hidden corners."
One expert said: "Spray half water and half vinegar all over the crevices of your window, being careful to avoid varnished surfaces as vinegar can be harsh on these. Not only will you be keeping spiders out, vinegar is a great repellent for anyone struggling with ant infestations."
How to make and use the spray
This guidance is supported by Green Pest Solutions, which recommends using white vinegar for the mixture. "Since the odour alone may be enough to repel them, you can place small dishes of diluted white vinegar in corners, underneath furniture, or other dark areas where they might be tempted to set up shop," it states.
Specialists at ExtermPro suggested the following steps to create the spray solution: mix together equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle (one part water/one part vinegar); spray directly on spiders, webs, or in places where you find them like corners, cabinets, or closets; be sure to spray cracks or crevices in the walls and floors as well; repeat regularly as needed. Since it's a safe solution, you can leave the bottle in an accessible place and spray as you see them. It continued: "If you notice the odour alone is not enough to repel them, you can place small dishes of diluted white vinegar in corners, underneath furniture, or other dark areas where you're most likely going to find spiders."
