Put cotton wool on windowsills in December to stop major problem

While spider season typically reaches its height during autumn, December can still bring unwelcome eight-legged visitors for those with a fear of arachnids.

Spider specialists warn that house spiders seeking refuge from the winter chill are frequently discovered in British homes throughout December, particularly in undisturbed, dimly-lit areas such as lofts and spaces concealed behind furnishings. However, if you’re concerned about large spiders making an appearance in your home over the festive period, pest control professionals suggest several measures you can take now to minimise the issue.

Numerous spider deterrent methods rely on plant-based oils and citrus rinds. This approach works because spiders detect taste through their feet, and certain substances including lavender oil, lemon and orange peel, and eucalyptus oil are particularly repellent to them as they move across surfaces.

These recommendations suggest creating an essential oil solution, such as one using lavender oil, then applying it around window ledges, entrances, skirting boards and any other gaps and crevices where spiders might emerge, reports the Express. However, according to specialist pest control website Sentinel Pest, you can enhance this technique’s effectiveness by incorporating cotton wool balls.

Sentinel Pest advises: “Use cotton balls. For a longer-lasting effect, soak cotton balls in essential oil and place them strategically in corners, closets, and behind furniture. This method helps maintain a consistent scent in targeted areas.”

This is supported by Gardening Know How, which advises: “Take a cotton ball and add four to five drops of peppermint oil and four to five drops of lavender oil to each one.

“Place each one in a small dish, plant saucer, or rest it on a coaster, and position them directly on windowsills, near doorways, around trash bins, and even inside cabinets or pantries.

“Replace or resoak cotton balls every two to three days, or whenever the scent fades.

“When positioning your cotton balls, keep them out of reach of pets and small children. Some essential oils can be harmful to pets if ingested or applied in a concentrated form.”

Naturally, it’s worth remembering that spiders are actually beneficial for your home. They eliminate flies, silverfish, moths and other pests, essentially keeping your house tidy and preventing insects from becoming overwhelming.

So if you can tolerate leaving them undisturbed in a ceiling corner, you’ll reap the rewards.

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