Spiders might not be the first thing you want to see when you walk into a room, but surprisingly, they can be helpful in keeping other pests in check. They naturally control the insect population by preying on flies and mosquitoes. However, most people would rather not share their living spaces with these eight-legged creatures. If you're wondering how to get rid of spiders in your home and prevent them from returning, there are several practical and effective methods that you can use without resorting to harmful chemicals.

Why Spiders Come Inside

Understanding why spiders are drawn to your home can help in preventing their invasion. The primary reasons include:

1. Food sources - Spiders thrive in environments with abundant prey like flies, mosquitoes, and other small insects.
2. Water sources - Areas with moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms, are attractive to spiders looking for a drink.
3. Warmth - Cold weather or damp conditions outside push spiders to seek warmth and shelter inside homes.

Spiders can enter homes through tiny cracks or even on your clothing. Female spiders are particularly inclined to settle in one spot for long periods, so even if you only see them seasonally, they may have been there for much longer.

8 Effective Ways on How to Get Rid of Spiders

There are various methods to deal with spiders, from natural remedies to simple home maintenance. Here are some of the most effective ways to remove these critters from your home.

1. Regular Cleaning

Freepik | yanalya | Regular vacuuming can significantly reduce spider sightings by removing both spiders and their webs.

One of the easiest ways to reduce spider sightings is by cleaning your home regularly. Spiders are most often found in dark, undisturbed corners, especially behind furniture or in cabinets. By vacuuming frequently, you can remove both the spiders and the webs they leave behind. Don’t forget to clean high areas like ceilings and window sills where webs are likely to accumulate. This simple habit can greatly reduce spider activity in your home.

2. Seal Entry Points

To prevent spiders from coming inside in the first place, check for gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and other openings in your home. Even tiny spaces can allow spiders to enter. Sealing these gaps with caulk or weatherstripping creates a barrier that makes it more difficult for spiders to find their way in.

3. Use Essential Oils as Repellents

Essential oils are an effective and natural way to deter spiders. Many spiders dislike strong scents, and oils such as peppermint, tea tree, lavender, and citrus are particularly effective. Mix about 20 drops of essential oil with water in a spray bottle and apply it to areas where spiders are likely to appear, such as corners, windowsills, and the edges of doors. Not only will this help keep spiders away, but your home will also smell fresh.

4. Reduce Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor lights attract insects, which in turn attract spiders. By minimizing the use of outdoor lighting or using yellow-toned lights, which are less appealing to insects, you can reduce the chances of attracting spiders into your home.

5. Keep Your Home Free of Insects

One of the most effective ways to control spider populations is by limiting their food source. Keep your home free of flies, ants, and other insects that spiders typically feed on. Use screens on windows and doors to prevent bugs from entering, and clean up crumbs or spills promptly to avoid attracting pests.

6. Introduce Spider-Repelling Plants

Freepik | Keep spiders at bay with natural repellents like mint and eucalyptus.

Certain plants are known to repel spiders. Adding plants like mint, eucalyptus, or citronella to your home can help deter these creatures. Not only will these plants make your space smell pleasant, but they will also act as a natural defense against spiders. Place them around windows, doorways, and other spider-prone areas to keep your home spider-free.

7. Lemon Peel Trick

The scent of citrus is another natural deterrent for spiders. Rubbing lemon peels on windowsills, baseboards, and other areas where spiders are likely to make an appearance can help keep them at bay. Plus, it gives your home a fresh, clean scent that’s pleasant for people but unappealing to spiders.

8. Maintain Your Garden and Yard

If you have a garden or yard, keep it well-maintained. Spiders are often attracted to areas with overgrown plants, piles of leaves, or stacks of firewood. Keeping your yard tidy and away from the house will discourage spiders from coming too close. Additionally, store firewood away from your home and keep mulch and debris clear from doorways to reduce the likelihood of attracting spiders.