Keep SC spiders out of your home with these 10 natural methods, according to Farmers’ Almanac
Spiders are generally good for keeping away nasty pests, but that doesn’t mean most people want to share their homes with them.
South Carolina has its fair share of spiders and finding arachnids in the home is a year-round problem for the Palmetto State, according to Aiken Pest Control.
You might not have seen any spiders in your home lately, but that hardly means they’re not there. Spiders prefer secluded locations and only come out into your common areas when there are insects present to eat.
Some species of spiders, once they get in your home, like to stay there. They will feed on other insects and produce offspring, which could keep spiders in your house indefinitely.
Getting rid of wall-crawlers from your home entirely might not be realistic. But apart from regularly calling an exterminator, there are natural methods and repellents you can use to minimize spider populations in your home, according to Farmers’ Almanac.
Remove dust
Spiders like to hang out in dusty areas with lots of cobwebs. Keeping your home clean by regularly dusting and vacuuming could make it less inviting for those eight-legged critters.
Organize your house
Spiders are big fans of dark, cluttered areas. Try stacking, organizing and sealing storage areas. Remove those stacks of empty boxes you’ve kept saved. Spiders like to make homes in piles of cardboard boxes, plywood and firewood.
White vinegar
Vinegar spray can work as an organic pest control, specifically for spiders, Farmers Almanac says. It contains acetic acid, which gives it a sour taste and odor that spiders dislike. Spray it around your home, concentrating on the kitchen and entrances where bugs may be coming in.
Citrus
Like vinegar, spiders aren’t big fans of citrus for the same reason. You can keep a bowl of citrus fruit on the kitchen counter to keep spiders out. Another method is to rub leftover citrus peels along windowsills and doorways.
Mint
Most bugs, including spiders, despise mint. Add peppermint essential oil to water in a spray bottle to use around your home. Also try crushing some dried mint leaves and put them in little sachets in your kitchen cupboard. Mint tea bags can also be used.
Diatomaceous earth
First off, what is diatomaceous earth? It’s made of fossilized remains of a particular kind of algae called diatoms, which have outer shells made of silica. The skeletons of diatoms are found and collected in sediment at the bottom of rivers, lakes and oceans.
The white power basically absorbs all of the moisture out of spiders and other insects, causing them to dehydrate. Sprinkle some of the substance around areas where you notice bugs.
You can also mix 1 tablespoon of it in a spray bottle of water. Spray it around the outside of your home where you see spiders.
Cedar
The smell of cedar is another spider repellent. Drop some cedar blocks and chips around your home and inside your house.
Horse chestnuts
If you can get access to horse chestnuts, place a few on your windowsills or along baseboards. They have been known to keep spiders at bay.
Proper landscaping
Keep the exterior of your home free of leaves, grass clippings and wood piles, all of which are prime spider hangouts. Also, keep bushes pruned and weeds trimmed.
Seal your home
Ensuring your home is sealed properly will prevent many pests from invading. Check all door openings and windowsills for any openings big enough for them to fit. Apply caulk and weather stripping to any cracks and openings.
