Households across the UK are being urged to put peppermint in the corners of rooms and by windows to keep spiders out. The dreaded spider season typically kicks off in the UK in early September and lasts until mid-October, so those with a fear of the eight-legged creatures have a nerve-wracking couple of months ahead. Spiders start to head indoors at this time of the year to seek shelter and seek out a mate, and thanks to a warm and dry summer, the season can start early. So households are likely to have already spotted spiders creeping around their home and should be prepared for increased activity this year.
The creepy crawlies find their way inside through cracks, gaps, open windows and doors, or can accidentally be brought inside in washing or on plants, but there are things you can do to help keep them out.
One solution experts recommend is to place peppermint leaves or peppermint oil in the corners of rooms, and by windows and doors, as spiders don’t like the strong scent. As peppermint releases a strong aroma, it’s a great natural deterrent to keep the creatures away and it’s very cheap to buy.
Experts at Sloane and Sons Tub Chairs explain: “If you are understandably arachnophobic and want to keep spiders out of your house as soon as possible, sometimes growing a peppermint plant is the right way to go.
“Not only is peppermint a strong deterrent for keeping spiders out, but other plants including lavender, mint and even lemon balm will work to keep them out.
“Grow them in a well-lit corner of your home and make sure to give the plant enough water and food to ensure you get efficient usage from your repelling plant techniques.
To deter spiders, simply place fresh mint leaves at entry points around your home, like windows and doors, and in the corners of rooms, or make a homemade spray by chopping the leaves and adding them to water.
You can pick up a bag of fresh mint leaves at Sainsbury’s for just 52p but if you can’t get hold of any, a spray solution of peppermint oil and water will work just the same.
Experts at Green Pest Solutions add: “Spiders do not like peppermint, and because they “taste” with their legs, it is an easy way to keep them away.
“Make a mixture of 1-1/2 cups water, 1/2 cup of white vinegar, and 20 drops of peppermint oil. Spray this concoction on windowsills, entryways, and where you find spiders.
“It will take a while for the house spiders you currently have to go away for good, but other spiders won’t make their way in with such a strong mixture in their way.”
