Spiders are more likely to come into homes in the summer to search for food as more flies and other insects are buzzing around the home. 

These creepy crawlies will also be searching for somewhere cool to stay as the weather gets warmer as their breeding season is approaching, meaning there will likely be more spiders around. 

However, there is a simple way to deter spiders from your home according to Sophie Franklin, an expert from Maids2Match, who has shared there are some natural methods which are very effective at keeping these pests way. 

She said: “If your local spider population is starting to show up at your front door, it can feel tempting to reach for spider repellents – except they might contain toxic chemicals which are bad for the spider, you, and your environment.

“Instead of insect spray, here are some natural spider repellents! Some essential oils (such as peppermint oil) work to deter spiders.” 

Spiders are highly sensitive to smell as they taste through their legs, and the smell of peppermint can overwhelm them and become irritating.

You can make a homemade spider-repellent spray by adding a few drops of peppermint essential oil to an empty spray bottle and adding water. Give the bottle a good shake and spray it around your home to get rid of spiders. 

Sophie said: “Peppermint essential oil is a go-to for most people, but other spider-repelling scents include cinnamon, lavender, tea tree eucalyptus [and] lemon.”

However, it should be noted that most essential oils are highly toxic to cats and dogs so should never be used in a home with pets, but there are other ways to keep spiders away if you are an animal lover. 

As an alternative, use a homemade spray filled with lemon peels instead of essential oils or consider lighting citronella candles as spiders will also not be able to stand the fragrant scent.

Another homemade spray which works to keep away spiders is a salt spray, but it should be noted this will kill the insect rather than just keep it away from your home. 

Sophie said: “Salt is hazardous for spiders, so you can use it as natural pest control. Just like you would make peppermint spray, mix a quarter-cup of salt in three litres of water. Fill a spray bottle, then spray any affected areas.” 

Anyone who loves houseplants should also consider buying a lavender, eucalyptus, lemon balm, lemon grass or mint plants to have around your home, as not only do they repel spiders but the also keep away houseflies. 

Sophie said: “You can plant some of these herbs along or under window sills to prevent a spider problem from happening in your home.

“Spiders also hate the scent of cinnamon, so set up some incense or cinnamon sticks in problem areas. The strong scent will repel insects using natural ingredients.” 

However, the easiest way to keep spiders away is to prevent them from coming into your home in the first place, so make sure to cover up fruit bowls and rubbish bins as they will be attracted to any food sources they can find.