Yahoo News Simple vinegar solution can deter spiders from entering your home this mating season
For those who aren't fans of our eight-legged friends, the end of August may bring some anticipation as spiders begin to head indoors.
This time of year sees spiders migrating into our homes from late August, reaching a peak in September during their mating season when males are on the prowl for partners.
Adding to the worries of arachnophobes, it appears bigger spiders could become a more frequent sight across the UK. The RSPB has recently highlighted that Britain's largest spider species, the fen raft spider, which can grow up to the size of small rodents and even hunt fish, are now increasing their presence in British territories.
Invasions of giant false widow spiders are also expected soon, with the risk of bites inflicting painful burns, swelling, or even a fever.
However there are preventative measures you can take to make your home less inviting to these intruders. Water and vinegar is touted as an effective spider repellent by experts who've shared their insights with House Beautiful.
The magazine advises: "Spiders are sensitive to vinegar's odour and sour taste, making it another brilliant natural deterrent", reports the Mirror.
They further recommend: "To repel spiders from the nooks and crannies of your house, simply spritz a little vinegar and water solution in hidden corners."
Adam Pawson, head of digital at Safestyle UK, shared with House Beautiful: "Spray half water and half vinegar all over the crevices of your window, being careful to avoid varnished surfaces as vinegar can be harsh on these. Not only will you be keeping spiders out, vinegar is a great repellent for anyone struggling with ant infestations."
This advice is supported by Green Pest Solutions, which recommends using white vinegar for the spray. "Since the odour alone may be enough to repel them, you can place small dishes of diluted white vinegar in corners, underneath furniture, or other dark areas where they might be tempted to set up shop," it suggests.
To create the spray solution, experts at ExtermPro suggested the following steps:
Mix together equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle
Spray directly on spiders, webs, or in places where you find them like corners, cabinets, or closets. Be sure to spray cracks or crevices in the walls and floors as well
Repeat regularly as needed. Since it’s a safe solution, you can leave the bottle in an accessible place and spray as you see them.
They further added: "If you notice the odour alone is not enough to repel them, you can place small dishes of diluted white vinegar in corners, underneath furniture, or other dark areas where you're most likely going to find spiders."
