Stop Spiders Taking Over Your Home This Autumn and reclaim the cosy, golden evenings that make this season so special. Autumn is meant to be about crisp leaves underfoot, candles glowing softly on windowsills, and the comforting ritual of wrapping yourself in a blanket with a hot drink in hand. It’s not meant to be about startled shrieks, slipper-waving, or spotting unexpected legs dashing across your living room carpet.
If you’ve noticed the odd web glittering in the hallway light or a mysterious scuttle in the corner, you’re certainly not alone. This time of year often feels like the moment our homes become a little too welcoming to curious visitors. But instead of seeing it as an invasion, think of it as a gentle reminder that our houses are full of warmth, life, and charm.
Some of us laugh it off and carry on, others stand on chairs and call for backup, but all of us would prefer to feel calm in our own space. The good news is that autumn is the perfect opportunity to create a sanctuary that feels peaceful, welcoming, and blissfully yours — with no uninvited guests stealing the spotlight.
So, how do you keep your home feeling like the comforting retreat it should be, without webs in the corners or surprises under the sofa? Let’s explore some cheerful, practical ways to make this autumn less about tiptoeing past shadows and more about truly enjoying your seasonal sanctuary.
Why Spiders Move Indoors in Autumn?
Autumn in the UK means two things: conkers on the pavement and spiders in the bath. But contrary to popular belief, spiders don’t crawl indoors just to terrorise you. There are a few other reasons:
- Mating season – Autumn is spider dating season. Male house spiders, in particular, are out and about looking for partners, which explains why you often see them sprinting across the carpet in September.
- Warmth and shelter – As the weather cools, our homes provide warmth and stability. The average central-heated home is far more comfortable than a frosty hedge.
- Food supply – Spiders eat insects, and our homes are full of flies, moths, and other tasty morsels that get trapped indoors once windows are closed.
- Dry spots – Damp gardens and soggy soil aren’t ideal for web building. Indoors, a tucked-away corner behind the sofa is prime real estate.
Are UK Spiders Dangerous?
The good news: most of the eight-legged squatters in British homes are harmless. While the false widow spider has gained a fearsome reputation, genuine medical issues from bites are rare. For the vast majority, spiders are more helpful than harmful, acting as free pest control by eating flies and mosquitoes.
So, while you don’t need to panic, you may want to discourage them from making themselves too comfortable.
DIY Spider Deterrents That Actually Work
If you’d rather avoid playing “catch the spider with a glass”, try these safe, non-toxic deterrents. They won’t harm the spiders, but they will make your home far less appealing to them.
1. Seal the Entry Points
Spiders are sneaky but not magical. They enter through gaps, cracks, and poorly sealed windows. Spend an afternoon with a tube of sealant or draught excluder. Not only does it keep spiders out, but it also helps cut down your heating bill.
2. Keep It Clean
Dusting corners, vacuuming regularly, and removing webs discourages spiders from setting up shop. They like quiet, undisturbed places, so shifting clutter can help. That said, nobody’s judging if there’s a “spider corner” you forgot about since spring.
3. Essential Oils: Not Just Instagram Fads
Spiders dislike strong scents. Peppermint oil, tea tree, lavender, or eucalyptus diluted in water and sprayed around skirting boards, windowsills, and door frames can deter them. Your house will smell like a spa, and the spiders will take their business elsewhere.
4. Citrus Power
Spiders aren’t fans of citrus. Rubbing orange or lemon peel on windowsills can put them off. Plus, it’s a good excuse to make a gin and tonic with fresh lime. Two birds, one stone.
5. Conkers – Fact or Fiction?
There’s an old British belief that placing conkers around the house keeps spiders at bay. Scientific evidence? None. But if it makes you feel better and gives your coffee table a rustic autumn look, why not?
6. Lighting Choices
Insects are drawn to bright outdoor lights, and spiders follow the buffet. Swap to yellow-toned bulbs for your garden or porch — fewer insects, fewer spiders.
When to Call Pest Control?
Most households do not need professional intervention. However, there are situations where calling pest control is the sensible option:
- False widow infestation: If you spot multiple false widows in one area, professional advice is wise.
- Persistent webs: If spiders keep returning despite DIY measures, pest control can locate the real hotspots.
- Commercial properties: For landlords or businesses, spider infestations can cause tenant or customer complaints.
- Phobias: If spider anxiety makes your home feel unliveable, a professional solution can restore peace of mind.
Autumn Spider Survival Guide: Room by Room
A light-hearted but practical sweep through the most spider-prone areas of your home:
1. Bathroom: Check under the bath panel and behind the toilet. Spiders usually enter the bathroom from gaps or openings rather than through the plughole.
2. Bedroom: When changing sheets, shake out the bedding to make sure nothing is hiding inside.
3. Kitchen: Keep surfaces and floors clear of crumbs, as food remnants attract insects, which can then attract spiders. Regular cleaning helps reduce this.
4. Loft & Garage: These areas are common hiding spots for spiders. If you need to enter these spaces, it can be helpful to have a broom to clear webs and corners.
Quick Myths to Bust
- “Spiders come up through the plughole” – False. They can’t survive in water and don’t swim up drains.
- “All big house spiders are dangerous” – False. Most are giant but gentle.
- “You swallow eight spiders a year in your sleep” – Absolutely false, and a horrible thing to imagine.
Relocating Spiders with Care
If you feel uneasy about moving spiders outside, keep in mind that you are simply returning them to their natural environment, where they are better suited to live. If you encounter a large spider indoors, try to remain calm — spiders are not harmful and generally avoid human contact.
Conclusion!
Stopping spiders from taking over your home this autumn is mainly about prevention. Focus on sealing gaps, keeping your home clean, and using safe, natural deterrents. If you still find the problem overwhelming or difficult to manage, contacting pest control is a practical next step.
Spiders are an important part of the ecosystem, and in small numbers, they can even be beneficial. However, it’s understandable not to want them indoors. With a few simple adjustments, you can maintain a comfortable living space throughout the season. For more seasonal household tips and guidance, follow The Household Daily for regular updates.
