Some people are scared of spiders. I don't mind them personally, except if they are particularly big! In the UK most species of spiders are harmless, but they are one of the most disliked insects. If you are one of those people who do not like the idea of sharing your home with eight-legged friends, there are a number of natural ways to prevent them:
Clear Clutter. Spiders love a good hiding place. If you want to keep spiders out of your house, look to reduce the areas where they can safely hide. Spiders like clutter inside the home because it creates dark and undisturbed areas to nest within. Always make sure you eliminate clutter as much as you can. Get rid of old items you no longer need; as well as reducing spiders this step can also have a positive effect on your mental health.
There is no scientific evidence whatsoever that putting out conkers will deter spiders. In fact, the Royal Society of Chemistry awarded a prize to a group of schoolchildren who managed to disprove the old wives’ tale that conkers contain a substance that spiders dislike. I personally have found spiders hiding behind conkers!
Similarly, there is no scientific proof to support the idea that essential oils such as peppermint, tea tree or lavender will keep spiders away. However, if it makes you feel better spritzing your house with a spray made by adding a few drops of essential oil to water, go for it. At least your home will smell delightfully fresh!
Our eight-legged friends are incredibly valuable ecologically in keeping the number of pest insects like flies down, and therefore helping control human diseases. Items such as Spider Catchers can catch spiders without any need for contact and then you can safely release them back outside your home. These can be available at your local garden centre.
For further information see the following websites