Spraying simple 1 solution over doors and windows stops spiders entering homes

Spiders are set to become an increasingly common presence in British households over the coming weeks, though there are straightforward measures homeowners can implement to keep them at bay. A home improvement specialist has revealed an inexpensive solution that can be applied around the typical routes spiders use to enter properties.

Helen Godsiff, brand manager at home improvement firm Eurocell, suggests combining a modest quantity of peppermint oil with water and applying it around window frames, doorways and other likely access points. The potent aroma is frequently regarded as a natural repellent, though Eurocell frames the advice as a means to deter spiders rather than a foolproof prevention method.

Godsiff explained: "Spider mating season is right around the corner, and there's nothing worse than being startled by a sudden appearance of eight-legged visitors in the home."

She noted that warmer summer weather can result in spiders staying active for extended periods, while open windows and doors can provide them with straightforward access indoors.

Peppermint oil (Image: Getty Images)

The Natural History Museum states that house spiders become especially visible between August and October, when mature males abandon their webs in search of mates. It clarifies that this roaming behaviour explains why people can abruptly notice more spiders moving through their properties during the late summer and autumn period.

The museum also points out that spiders can enter properties through open windows and cracks surrounding doorways, though it emphasises that the majority of spiders discovered in British homes pose no threat to humans.

Eurocell offers various other recommendations for households seeking to make their properties less attractive to spiders. One approach involves combining two tablespoons of white vinegar with warm soapy water, saturating cotton wool pads in the mixture and positioning them near potential access points such as window ledges and door surrounds.

There are about 650 different species of spiders in the UK (Image: Getty Images)

The firm additionally suggests minimising outdoor lighting wherever feasible, as illumination can draw insects which serve as a food source for spiders. Frequent hoovering of corners, webs and spaces behind furnishings is another tip, while Eurocell mentions positioning conkers near window ledges and entrance areas.

For those attempting the peppermint oil method, the essential message is that it represents a straightforward deterrent rather than a scientifically proven method to eradicate spiders permanently. The Natural History Museum highlights that spiders fulfil a vital function as predators of insects, suggesting their presence within the home isn't necessarily something requiring intervention.