Spring is the ideal season to fling open your windows and allow fresh air to circulate, but it comes with a downside: insects. As plants shoot up and animals emerge from hibernation, bugs such as spiders, flies, and ants become active. While they play an essential role in the ecosystem, most people prefer to keep them out of their homes.
According to home hacks expert Rachael Eppley, a simple trick can deter insects. In an Instagram video, she recommended placing cinnamon sticks or star anise on windowsills and near doorways. The scent repels spiders, ants, fruit flies, and even rodents like mice.
Eppley explained: 'Spiders become a lot more active in the springtime, which means you're about to start seeing a lot more of them inside. But they don't like cinnamon, clove or star anise, so if you place them by window seals and doorways, it will stop them from coming inside.'
Viewers responded positively, with one commenting: 'Thank you so much! I have severe arachnophobia, and I live alone.' Another added: 'As a pest technician, this is awesome.' The tip offers a budget-friendly, chemical-free way to keep insects at bay this spring.
