While we are all aware that most of the spiders we find in our homes do no harm, many of us consider them unwanted household pests. As these eight-legged creatures go around looking for insects to feed on, we continue to think of ways to send them packing. And those who live in areas known to host poisonous spiders, such as the brown recluse and black widow, have even more reason to keep our homes spider-free.
While there are potent chemicals designed to rid our homes of these household pests, there are also several natural remedies that can help keep them outdoors.
1. Peppermint Essential Oil
Spiders hate the minty aroma of peppermint essential oils just as much as we enjoy it. This natural oil is a natural insecticide that repels these household pests. Spray a peppermint oil and water mixture in the corners and cracks of your house to ward off spiders.
2. Eucalyptus
Once again, this menthol-based fragrance disturbs the eight-legged household pests. A great indoor or outdoor plant (as long as it receives maximum sun exposure), eucalyptus is a joy to have around, while at the same time ridding your home of the unwanted household pests known as spiders.
3. Cedar
Yet another natural spider repellent is cedar. These household pests do not appreciate the fragrant smell. Cedar mulch, wood, or high-quality oil spread outside the home can keep the spiders out the door.
4. Chestnuts
This one is debated by scientists, but many people believe that placing chestnuts under furniture and around the house is useful for warding off spiders. The compounds within chestnuts have been shown to be toxic to insects, so there might be some truth to the claims. Cutting holes in the chestnuts to release their aroma could help to improve their effectiveness at warding off these household pests.
5. Cinnamon
The amazing scent of cinnamon isn’t just good for the winter holiday season. Sprinkle cinnamon around your home at any time of year to fill the air with a fragrant scent and keep away eight-legged household pests.
6. Turmeric Paste
Turmeric is known for its multiple health benefits, and this wonderful spice just happens to serve the useful purpose of repelling spiders from your home. Form a paste with turmeric powder by mixing it carefully with water, and then apply the paste to some cotton balls. Place these around areas where the household pests tend to hang out. Watch out for its stains, though.
7. Citrus Peels
Spiders and citrus do not go together. These household pests flee from areas with citrus scents, making lemon and orange peel a good way to ward off these household pests. You can rub lemon peels around your walls, windowsills, cabinets, and so on. Citrus peels soaked in water can be equally as potent.
8. Home Maintenance
This really should be number one on your list. Many household pests do not appreciate clean homes. Vacuum, dust, clean, sweep and wash surfaces as often as possible. Seek out cracks and seal them up. Be sure to also keep the home decongested, and to regularly take out the trash.
Household pests will always seek to find their way into your home, but you can help keep the spiders outside where they belong with a combination of home maintenance and a few carefully placed plants or essential oils.
If you try these methods and your spider problem persists, you may wish to reach out to us for a solution, particularly if the spiders are poisonous. Remember, most spiders are harmless and are actually beneficial for people and the environment, even if they seem scary. So if you see an 8-legged creature once in a while, it may not be such a bad thing.