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Why you should keep spiders in your home

Sep 08, 2022
4 reason to keep spiders in your home
If you're an arachnophobe who is afraid of spiders, you won’t be happy to hear that September and October are prime spider mating seasons. During these months, you’re likely to notice more spiders around the house as our eight-legged friends (or foes) seek refuge from the rain and falling temperatures of early autumn and come inside to reproduce.

Spiders in the home are obviously something the British public is concerned about. In fact, over the past 30 days, there has been a 200% increase in Google searches for advice on getting spiders out of the house. However, Barratt Homes has provided a different outlook on why you should be inviting them in rather than keeping them out.

Key Takeaways

Spiders eat other insects: helping control populations and prevent diseases.

Rare attacks on humans: Most house spiders won’t harm you.

Spiders benefit gardens: They’re natural pest controllers.

Good luck superstition: Having spiders is considered lucky.

Tips for dealing with spiders:

  • Keep your house clutter-free.
  • Let in light and maintain good airflow.
  • Ignore conker myths.
  • Use essential oils to deter spiders.
  • Safely relocate spiders instead of killing them.
  • Seal cracks and limit foliage near your home.

1. Spiders eat other insects  

 
Spiders eat other insects such as flies, moths, and earwigs. You might not see it, but spiders actually do more good rather than harm, so having them in the corner of your living room might not be that bad. By eating other insects, spiders keep the population in check - this can also help with the spread of diseases.  
 

2. It is very rare for spiders to attack humans  

Only a few spiders attack humans, but mostly house spiders just like to come in and set up a home in the corner of a room, so if it is the attack itself that is the heightened worry, then rest assured. If you do not annoy or aggravate them, they won’t hurt you.  
 

3. Spiders help your garden  

Spiders are great helpers when it comes to gardens and house plants. Rather than relying on pest control or chemicals, allow spiders to eat the pests organically. Not only will your garden be grateful, but you will also have no man-made ingredients tampering with your garden.  
 

4. Spiders are a sign of good luck, apparently  

Many cultures believe that allowing a spider to run around the house is a sign of good luck and money. According to humansandnature.org, they say that various sources have claimed that “If you want to live and thrive, let the spider run alive.”  
 
Thankfully, the invasion normally only lasts until the first week of October so try not to worry too much. But if you are particularly anxious about being invaded by these creepy crawlies this September, here is how to remove spiders or prevent spiders from coming into your home safely and naturally.
 

1. Avoid clutter 

Spiders love hiding amongst clutter so keep your house as tidy as possible. Vacuum and dust regularly and keep things stored away properly. The key is to ensure these little critters have nowhere to hide. 
 

2. Let the light in 

 
Keep curtains open and blinds up during the day as spiders love dark places. Spiders are also fans of the damp, so make sure nothing wet is left on floors, and ensure good airflow throughout the home. 
 

3. Ignore advice about conkers 

 
Many people believe putting conkers in the home will deter spiders but sadly, there is no real evidence to suggest this works. Perhaps it is time to ditch the conkers and try alternatives. 
 

4. Use essential oils 

 
Spiders are known for having a strong sense of smell. Smells that are known to deter spiders include tea tree, rose, cinnamon, citrus, peppermint, citronella, and lavender. You can try spraying things like window sills and skirting boards with a mixture of essential oils and water to keep them at bay. 
 

5. If you find a spider, find a cup if you want to remove it  

Never kill a spider. If you want to remove it safely, use the old cup and paper trick. If you do not have a cup or paper to hand, then use a jar. Pop the spider safely outside.  
 

6. Seal any cracks 

Seal up any holes and gaps in your home that spiders may use to gain entry. This also goes for open windows and doors - if you leave them open for long periods then you may be inviting spiders in. 
 

7. Keep foliage away from the house 

If you have foliage and plants close to your home, it is likely you’ll find spiders hiding in them. Try to limit this as much as possible to avoid spiders sneaking into your home. 

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