Spiders can be a nuisance in any home, especially in locations where seasonal changes can drive them indoors. These eight legged creatures not only creep us out but can also pose risks to our food and living spaces, and as always we are here to help you keep your home spider free – within reason – with these practical and effective solutions.
1. Maintain a Clean Home
One of the primary reasons spiders invade homes is due to clutter and food remnants, so ensuring that your home is tidy can significantly reduce the likelihood of a spider infestation. Begin by disposing of any old food and washing dishes promptly with hot, soapy water. This practice eliminates food particles that attract not just spiders but also other pests. Additionally, remove spider webs as soon as you spot them as by eliminating their webs, you take away their primary reason to stay. Regular vacuuming and dusting is also a must and will help maintain a spider free environment, making your home less inviting to these arachnids.
2. Use Natural Repellents
For those who prefer eco-friendly methods, natural repellents like peppermint oil can be highly effective as they are repelled by the strong scent of peppermint. Simply soak cotton balls in peppermint oil and place them in areas where spiders are frequently seen, such as corners and window sills. Alternatively, you can create a spray by mixing peppermint oil with water and using it around your home. Vinegar is another potent natural repellent whereby the acetic acid in vinegar has a strong odour that spiders dislike. Create a spray solution with equal parts vinegar and water and apply it to spider-prone areas, including cracks, webs and egg sacs.
3. Seal Entry Points
To prevent spiders from entering your home, it is obviously crucial to seal any cracks or openings in your walls and foundation. Use caulk or foam sealant to fill gaps where spiders might gain access and inspect your home thoroughly, including around windows, doors and plumbing lines, to identify potential entry points. Use a flashlight to locate crevices and holes that may not be visible at first glance. Applying a bead of caulk or sealant and smoothing it out with a putty knife will create a barrier that keeps not only spiders out but other pests such as cockroaches
4. Employ Sticky Traps
Sticky traps are a simple yet effective solution for catching spiders without the use of harsh chemicals. These traps are affordable and easy to set up in spider prone areas like basements, garages and attics. As spiders wander onto the sticky surface, they become trapped and can be easily disposed of. While sticky traps are effective, they do require regular replacement as they become covered in dust or webs.
5. Install Insect Screens
Adding insect screens to your windows and doors is an effective way to keep spiders and other pesky insects such as mosquitoes and flies entering your home. Choose durable materials like fiberglass for long-lasting protection. Also ensure that screens are properly fitted and free of tears or holes and regularly inspect and maintain them to keep your home sealed against unwanted intruders.
6. Incorporate Spider-Repelling Plants
Introducing certain plants into your home can act as a natural spider deterrent. Spiders are repelled by the scents of mint, eucalyptus, and lavender. Placing these plants near entry points like doors and windows can help keep spiders at bay. Additionally, citrus plants such as lemon trees can be effective due to their strong, repelling aroma. Incorporating these plants not only enhances your home’s aesthetic but also provides a natural defense against spiders.
Effective Spider Control with CFPMS
While these methods can help prevent and reduce spider infestations, severe cases will require professional intervention, and this is where we can help with our comprehensive pest control services. So contact us today to reclaim your space from unwanted arachnids or any other pest related issue you may have.