To keep spiders out of your house naturally, you can employ a variety of effective methods:
- Citrus Peels: Spiders dislike the smell of citrus. Rubbing citrus peels on doorways, window sills, and baseboards can deter them. If using essential oils, mix a few drops with water in a spray bottle and spray around your house. Remember to replace the peels every 24 to 48 hours to maintain their potency.
- Mint: Mint is an excellent natural pest repellent. Spiders, along with most bugs, hate its smell. You can add peppermint essential oil to water and spray it around your home for a dual effect of repelling spiders and freshening the air. Planting mint leaves near entryways or using dried mint leaves in sachets are also effective methods.
- Diatomaceous Earth: This non-toxic powder, made from fossilized algae, can dehydrate spiders. Sprinkle it around areas where spiders are common or mix it with water and spray around the exterior of your home.
- Seal Cracks and Openings: Spiders often enter homes through small cracks and gaps. Sealing these with caulk, especially around windows and doors, can prevent their entry.
- Borax: Known for its pest control properties, borax can be spread where spiders are frequent, or mixed with water to make a spray. However, be cautious if you have pets or children.
- Essential Oils: Spiders are repelled by various scents like rosemary, lavender, and peppermint. Mix these oils with water and a drop of dish soap in a spray bottle and apply around potential spider entry points.
- Garlic: While its strong odor might be unappealing indoors, planting garlic around your foundation can deter spiders. Alternatively, you can mix crushed garlic cloves with water in a spray bottle and apply it outdoors.
- Tidy Gardens and Reduce Clutter: Keeping your yard clear of debris and your home free of clutter can reduce spider habitats. Spiders are attracted to dark, undisturbed spaces, so regular cleaning and decluttering are essential.
- Cedar: Cedar wood contains natural oils that repel spiders. Placing cedar blocks or chips around the house or in the garden can be an effective deterrent.
These methods are environmentally friendly and safe for use in homes with children and pets. Regular application and maintenance of these natural deterrents can help keep your home spider-free.