Autumn ushers in a display of vibrant leaves but also marks the beginning of spider season, much to many people’s dismay.
While nature bursts into colour, our attention turns to the eight-legged creatures that increase in number as they search for mates and warmth. Our homes become sought-after retreats for spiders trying to escape the chill.
To prevent their unwelcome advances, experts share easy methods to deter these creepy crawlies. As October heralds the peak of spider mating season, Flooring Hut specialists have compiled five top tips to keep these unwanted visitors at bay this autumn. One tactic utilises scents that are abhorrent to spiders but nice to human noses.
The secrets to maintaining a spider-free home this autumn
As reports the Express, Paul Brewster, CEO at Flooring Hut, remarked: “Autumn is reportedly the most common time for spiders to enter UK homes, especially from September to October as male spiders seek mates and warmth. During this time, you will most likely notice more spiders in your home. Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to keep spiders out.”
1. Maintain clean floors regularly
Regular cleaning of your floors by sweeping, vacuuming, and mopping can help eliminate any food sources or webs that might attract spiders. If you have carpets, it’s crucial to deep clean them regularly to get rid of any eggs or pests that may have settled in.
2. Seal gaps and cracks
Sealing gaps and cracks is another effective method. Spiders can infiltrate homes through small gaps and cracks in flooring, walls, and baseboards.
Regular inspections of your floors, particularly around the edges, and sealing any cracks or openings can prevent not only spiders but also other pests from entering.
3. Use essential oils
Using essential oils such as peppermint and eucalyptus can act as natural spider repellents. Adding a few drops to your floor cleaner or creating a diluted spray to apply around baseboards and corners can deter unwanted spiders and leave your home smelling fresh.
4. Strong smells
In addition to essential oils, strong smells are a natural way to keep spiders at bay. Scents such as lemon, lime, oranges, and anything with a strong citrus aroma can repel spiders.
The type of flooring materials you use can also make a difference. Some materials, like luxury vinyl tiles, are less likely to harbour insects than others.
5. Flooring materials
For instance, when properly installed and maintained, vinyl tiles provide a less hospitable environment for spiders compared to carpet. If you’re considering updating your flooring, this might be worth thinking about.
By adhering to these steps, you can significantly decrease the chances of spiders making their way into your home this autumn.
