Spin Free Zone! Dealing With Spider Ingress And Web Building

According to a recent YouGov survey, five in ten Britons (21%) report they suffer from arachnophobia; an excessive and irrational fear or anxiety towards spiders and other arachnids. Many more of us are not excessively scared of spiders but would really rather not share our living spaces with them! In this article we will look at how to avoid these eight-legged uninvited houseguests…

Avoiding Spider Ingress & Web Building

Spider ingress occurs when spiders find their way inside our homes, e.g., through openings, or gaps, seeking shelter, food, or suitable conditions for web building. This can be a common issue, especially during certain seasons or in areas with a high spider population, such as Leicester. Taking preventive measures and implementing strategies to discourage spiders, can help minimise spider ingress and maintain a spider-free environment.

To avoid spider ingress and web building, here are some strategies you can implement:

• Seal Entry Points

Inspect your home for any gaps, cracks, or openings where spiders can enter. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal these entry points, including gaps around windows, doors, and utility openings.

• Install Screens

Consider fitting vents with tightly meshed screens to prevent spiders from gaining access to your home.

• Keep a Clean Environment

Regularly clean and declutter your living spaces. Pay close attention to areas where spiders are more likely to hide, such as basements, attics, and storage areas

• Remove Hiding Spots

Clear away piles of wood, rocks, or other debris near your home, as these can serve as hiding places for spiders. Keep vegetation trimmed and away from the sides of your house.

• Remove Food Sources

Spiders are attracted to insects, so take steps to minimise their presence. Keep your home free of flies and other small insects that spiders prey upon.

• Use Natural Repellents

Some scents are known to repel spiders. Consider using essential oils like peppermint, citrus, cinnamon, or eucalyptus. Spray these oils diluted with water around windows, doorways, and other entry points.

• Regularly Dust and Vacuum

Spiders are deterred by cleanliness. Dust and vacuum your home regularly, paying attention to corners, ceilings, and other areas where spiders may build webs.

• Adjust Outdoor Lighting

Bright outdoor lights can attract insects, which in turn attract spiders. Consider using yellow or sodium vapor lights that are less attractive to insects.

• Employ Sticky Traps

Place sticky traps in areas where spiders are likely to travel, such as along skirting boards, behind furniture, and in corners. These traps can help catch spiders and prevent them from establishing webs.

• Utilise Natural Predators

Consider biological control; the deliberate introduction or promotion of natural enemies, such as predators, parasites, or pathogens, to suppress populations of harmful organisms. Encourage the presence of natural spider predators like birds and certain species of insects (e.g., ladybirds) in your garden or around your property. They can help keep spider populations in check.

Are you longing for a spider-free sanctuary where you can relax without worry?

Contact Avon Pest Control today and let us handle the rest.