Hoovering up a spider is deemed ‘cruel and pointless’ as ‘spider season’ approaches, with arachnophobes being warned that these eight-legged guests will seek refuge indoors to escape the cold weather and find a mate. While it may be tempting to reach for the vacuum cleaner to remove spiders, it is one of the worst things to do, as most spiders sucked into a vacuum cleaner will likely die. Spiders play a crucial role in the ecosystem by controlling the population of other insects. Therefore, it is advised to use humane methods to capture spiders, like the traditional glass and paper method or other catching devices.
To prevent spiders from entering your home, there are several cruelty-free methods to consider. Spiders can be deterred by scents they dislike, such as citrus, peppermint, tea tree, lavender, eucalyptus, cinnamon, and vinegar. By spreading these scents around common entry points like doors, windows, and cracks, spiders can be discouraged from entering. Keeping your home clean, free of clutter, and removing loose crumbs that can attract insects spiders feed on is also effective in spider control.
Moreover, preventing outside lights from attracting insects like moths, flies, and mosquitoes, which are food sources for spiders, can help deter them from entering your home. By keeping outside lights off, you can reduce the likelihood of attracting insects and subsequently spiders. Taking these simple steps can make a significant difference in keeping spiders away from your home and encouraging them to stay in their natural habitat, contributing positively to the ecosystem.