Fall is our favorite time of year, but as the cooler season approaches, so do the spiders. Arachnid mating season is in full swing - which could be why you're finding more eight-legged creepy crawlies in your home than usual.
When it comes to how to get rid of spiders, there are a few ways to go. They play an important role in our ecosystems, so we don't want to kill them - even if they do freak us out.
It turns out a lemon might be the only thing you need to stop them from wandering into your home in the first place.
Spider mating season typically takes place from the beginning of September to mid-October. Bad news for arachnophobes - they like to use our homes for their romantic endeavours because they're dry and warm.
‘Like all species, spiders need water to survive,' says George Holland, from Victorian Plumbing. 'That’s why they are drawn to your bathroom, especially in these more arid times of year as a bathroom can be the only place to find some moisture.’
Lemon peel spider repellant hack
George recommends rubbing lemon peels all over the windowsills or anywhere spiders may try and perch, like behind the toilet or cabinets. The citrus will repel them and will give your bathroom a nice scent, he says.
Although most house spiders are harmless, we don’t want them spying on us while we're in the shower or dashing out from behind the toilet. Other bugs can cause a nuisance this time of year - learn how to get rid of fruit flies if you're experiencing an invasion.
You can also make your own spider repellent using a lemon - working out much cheaper than buying one in a store. Mix the juice from a lime or lemon with water in a spray bottle and spray the corners of your bathroom or any moist areas that are likely to attract the insects.
Your favorite essential oils could also work here - as well as citrus scents, spiders aren't fans of tea tree, lavender, peppermint and cinnamon. Hey, if it means we have another excuse to stock up on the best candles for fall, we're not complaining.
'A water and vinegar spray will have a similar effect at deterring spiders,' comments Lucy Askew from Hillarys. 'Especially when applied into any cracks or crevices in your home that spiders are likely to lurk and want to lay their eggs.'
When life gives you lemons, make a spider repellant.
