How To Prevent Spiders From Getting Into Your Home
I live in an older home and with its charm comes little nooks and crannies for bugs and spiders to sneak into and hide inside. While spiders are actually good for the environment, nothing makes me toss and turn at night like the thought of a spider crawling across my face or *gasp* into my mouth!
If you’re like me and care to keep the creepy crawlies outside, use these tips to help keep them out of your home. Because, even though we know they help keep nature under control, we don’t necessarily want them inside, right?
1. Clear The Cobwebs
About once a month, I grab a broom with a really long handle and clear away any cobwebs in and around my home, especially near doorways. Making a spider’s stay unpleasant can encourage it to move elsewhere—like outside to the garden where it’s welcome!
Photo by curtis_ovid_poe2. Keep Things Clean
Bugs love clutter because they can hide in it. Avoid having piles of boxes, clothes or mail piled up, and that will remove some of the places for spiders to nest and hide. Besides, keeping things clutter-free makes your home look and feel better. So consider that a bonus in addition to keeping the eight-legged critters away.
Photo by go_greener_oz3. Apply Essential Oils
According to Tips Bulletin, these oils can naturally help repel spiders:
- Cinnamon
- Citronella
- Citrus
- Eucalyptus
- Lavender
- Peppermint
- Rose
- Tea Tree
4. Seal Any Cracks
Know that the small cracks around doors, window sills and the foundation can not only let in unwanted visitors, but drafts too. Each spring and fall, make a note to put your caulking gun to work and fill any holes or gaps that need sealing. Not only will you help keep out the bugs, you’ll make your home more energy efficient too.
5. Make A Natural Spider Spray
Mix 1 cup of apple cider vinegar, 1 cup of pepper, 1 teaspoon of liquid soap and 1 teaspoon of oil to make this family-friendly spider repellant. You can spray around the inside and outside of your home. Just be sure to test it on any fabric first to ensure it doesn’t stain.
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6. Move Spider Habitats Away From Your Home
Perhaps you have a woodpile conveniently located right near the back door of your house? Or a pile of leaves that you will get to next weekend?
Having places for spiders (and their food: bugs) to live close to your home will only increase the likelihood of them entering at their own will. This includes but isn’t limited to: compost piles, long grass, stacks of boxes or firewood, and overgrown shrubbery.
7. Turn Off Outdoor Lights
As you know, bugs are attracted to light. Smart spiders will naturally gravitate to these lights to catch an easy meal. Turning off your bright front porch or overhead garage door light can reduce the urge for spiders to creep into your personal space.
Photo by anneh6328. Get A Pet Exterminator
Pets love to chase things that move, and spiders are the perfect target. Just be aware if you have poisonous spiders in your area, that they could harm your handy helper too.
RELATED: 10 Ways To Keep Cockroaches Out Of Your Home
9. Use Borax
Borax not only kills ants but spiders too. If you need heavy artillery, this is it. Simply sprinkle on their path of invasion and eradicate the pests.