How to Get Rid of Spiders in Your Home Naturally
Spiders are a common sight in many Australian homes. While they play an important role in controlling other insects, most people prefer not to share their living space with them. The good news is that you don’t always need harsh chemicals to keep spiders away. With a few simple and natural steps, you can make your home less inviting to these eight-legged visitors.
1. Keep Your Home Clean and Clutter-Free
Spiders love dark, quiet corners where they can spin their webs undisturbed. By keeping your home tidy, you remove many of their hiding spots.
Vacuum regularly, especially in corners, under furniture, and around ceilings.
Dust shelves and window sills often to remove webs and egg sacs.
Avoid leaving piles of clothes, boxes, or paper on the floor, as these make perfect hiding places.
A clean and organised home makes it harder for spiders to settle in.
2. Seal Gaps and Cracks
Spiders often enter through small openings around windows, doors, and vents. Sealing these gaps can go a long way in preventing them from coming inside.
Use weatherstrips on doors and windows.
Check for cracks in walls and repair them with sealant.
Install mesh screens on windows and vents to keep insects (and spiders) out.
Not only does this help with spiders, but it also prevents other pests from sneaking into your home.
3. Reduce Outdoor Attractants
If your garden or outdoor area attracts insects, spiders will follow because they feed on them. To make the area less appealing:
Keep your yard tidy by trimming plants and removing debris.
Avoid leaving outdoor lights on overnight, as they attract insects which, in turn, attract spiders.
Store firewood away from your house, as it’s a favourite hiding spot for many spiders.
Creating a less insect-friendly environment outside will naturally reduce spider numbers inside.
4. Use Natural Spider Repellents
You can keep spiders away using ingredients you may already have at home. Here are some effective natural repellents:
Peppermint Oil Spray: Mix a few drops of peppermint essential oil with water in a spray bottle. Spray it around doors, windows, and corners. Spiders dislike the strong scent.
Vinegar Solution: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Spray this in areas where you often see spiders. The smell and acidity help deter them.
Citrus Peels: Rubbing lemon or orange peels along window sills, skirting boards, and shelves can help, as spiders dislike citrus scents.
These natural methods are safe, inexpensive, and easy to apply.
5. Keep Your Home Dry
Spiders are more likely to appear in damp areas such as basements, bathrooms, and kitchens.
Use a dehumidifier in humid rooms.
Fix leaking taps and pipes promptly.
Ensure your bathroom is well-ventilated.
Reducing moisture not only discourages spiders but also prevents mould and other pests.
6. Relocate Spiders Safely
If you find a spider inside your home, you don’t have to kill it. You can safely move it outside.
Place a jar or glass over the spider.
Slide a piece of cardboard underneath.
Carry it outside and release it away from your house.
This way, you can keep your home spider-free while respecting their role in nature.
7. Regularly Maintain Your Home
Prevention is always better than dealing with a large infestation.
Clean regularly to remove webs and eggs.
Inspect your home for entry points every few months.
Keep an eye on places where spiders are likely to hide, such as attics, garages, and sheds.
Staying on top of these tasks makes it less likely that spiders will settle in.
8. When to Seek Professional Help
While natural methods are very effective for preventing and controlling small spider problems, sometimes professional help is needed. If you notice a large number of spiders or dangerous species, it’s best to call an expert. Professional spider pest control services can deal with the problem quickly and safely, giving you peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Getting rid of spiders naturally is possible with a combination of prevention, cleanliness, and simple home remedies. By making your home less inviting, sealing entry points, and using natural repellents, you can enjoy a spider-free environment without relying on strong chemicals. And if things ever get out of hand, professional help is always available.
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