The late-September cold snap has been an unwelcome reminder that the seasons are changing — and with the autumn cold comes spiders.
Even those unfazed by the eight-legged creatures will not be able to get away from the fact that spiders both great and small are becoming more frequently spotted in recent weeks.
It is no coincidence either that the arachnids —some of the native breeds in the UK can grow to more than 2.5cms — are becoming more visible with the coming of autumn.
Paul Blackhurst, head of the technical training academy at Rentokil Pest Control, told Mirror Online: “September usually marks the beginning of mating season for spiders, leading to increased sightings across the UK as males leave their webs in the search for a breeding partner.
“This means that many spiders will potentially make their way into properties and homes through open windows, under doors and through gaps in buildings.”
Although probably of little solace to those living with arachnophobia, Mr Blackhurst stressed that “most species that are found in the UK are not dangerous”.
He added: “Spiders are actually beneficial to our environment, providing a natural form of pest control, as they feed on insect pests such as flies, ants, beetles and moths.”
Ways to keep spiders out of your home
Spiders are able to squeeze themselves through tiny gaps and holes, making it nigh on impossible to completely protect your house against them.
But regular cleaning, filling holes in windows and doors and removing webs are all ways of cutting down on the number of creepy-crawly visits.
1. Vacuum regularly
A tidy house is the enemy of a spider cluster.
Rentokil says people should make sure they have hoovered thoroughly, including any spots that could be used as shelters.
Those on chore duties should vacuum beneath worktops and behind cupboards and sofas.
Mr Blackhurst said: “As with most pests, the best way to control spiders is to limit their food source. This includes clearing away any dead flies, or any other small, crawling insects.”
2. Spray smells spiders hate
Adam Pawson, head of digital at window provider Safestyle UK, said spiders “aren’t big fans of strong scents”, with acidic concoctions particularly offending them.
He recommends diluting some peppermint oil with water and spraying it around the house.
“Spiders smell and taste through their legs, meaning that crawling through a powerful peppermint odour is extremely unpleasant,” said Mr Pawson.
“You can then spray it around your window and you’ll instantly deter spiders from making an unwanted entrance.”
Peppermint oil can be bought from most homeware stores and pharmacies.
A half-and-half potion using vinegar and water can also work, but deployment on varnished surfaces should be kept to a minimum as the acidity can be detrimental.
Citrus-style sprays can also work in a similar way.
3. Clean the garden
Unruly gardens can be a haven for quick-moving spiders.
Jordan Foster from Fantastic Pest Control London said keeping them tidy is a good way to make a start on having a spider-free home.
“Cluttered backyards are great for spiders because they can weave their webs and settle in,” he said.
“If you've got plants and foliage around your house where spiders build webs, you should trim or prune them.
“Keeping plants away from the outside of the house is also a good idea. You'll encourage them to move in by planting big shrubs against the brick wall.”
4. Limit the light
Possibly easier said than done as the nights draw in over autumn, but making your house look less like an inviting beacon can be key to keeping spiders at bay.
A misconception is that the creatures like dark corners when in fact they like a well-lit place to call home.
Safestyle’s Mr Pawson said: “Like many insects, spiders are attracted to light.
“So making sure that your lights are turned off overnight and while you’re not in the house is a fool-proof way to make sure you’re not inviting spiders — and you’re keeping the bills down.
“You can also frequently dust and clean any particularly light and airy spaces to ensure no bugs get a chance to set up camp.”
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