As someone with a deep-seated fear of spiders, I've spent years perfecting natural methods to keep them—and other insects—out of my living spaces. These practical, non-toxic tips draw from my real-life experiences, including living in spider-heavy Suriname.
Spiders and I have never gotten along. This phobia intensified around age 14 when, on April Fool's Day, a large spider had crawled into my pants overnight—no prank involved. For a full year afterward, I checked every pair inside out. My challenges continued in 2004 when I moved to Suriname, where massive tarantulas roamed freely. I'd spot them regularly, screaming for help while someone else dealt with the intruder. Though I'm an animal lover at heart, spiders crossed the line. Thankfully, I never found one indoors there, but their size was intimidating.
Once, while making breakfast sandwiches for my sick son, I felt a sharp sting on my ankle—initially mistaking it for a cockroach, common there. It was a spider bite, leaving a red, irritated spot. I took an antihistamine immediately and consulted a doctor; it resolved without issue.
Even now, spotting a spider triggers an instant retreat to a safe perch—like the kitchen counter or sofa back—while keeping it in view.
Despite my aversion, spiders occasionally appear indoors, along with mosquitoes and other pests. Spiders do eat flies and mosquitoes, providing ecological benefits, but no one wants them inside. While chemical sprays work, natural alternatives are safer and just as effective, based on my trial-and-error approach.
These health-friendly methods require no harsh chemicals. Here's what works:
Prevention starts with natural predators. Ladybugs deter lice and other insects. Plant coriander, dill, fennel, caraway, yarrow, scented geraniums, or angelica in your garden to draw them in—or order ladybugs online.
Essential oils are my go-to. Mix peppermint oil with water and spray in spider-prone spots like corners and crevices. Note: Not everyone tolerates peppermint; test first. I source pure oils from reputable suppliers.
Combine water, dish soap, oil, pepper, and apple cider vinegar in a spray bottle. Apply every other day, focusing on windows and doors—prime entry points.
Save peels from oranges, tangerines, or lemons and place them near doors, windows, and shelves. Replace every 48 hours for ongoing protection.
Cleanliness is key. Dust weekly, remove cobwebs promptly, and tackle under-bed and hard-to-reach areas to eliminate attractants.
Cats are natural hunters of mice, rats, birds—and spiders. Mine chases rodents but avoids spiders (perhaps mirroring my fear), yet most cats help deter pests.
In gardens, scatter cedar chips or use cedar oil. Insects, including spiders, dislike the scent. Bonus: It mulches soil, retaining moisture.
Chestnuts repel spiders with their scent. Position them by doors, windows, and in cabinets.
Beyond peppermint, eucalyptus oil repels mosquitoes—spray as needed. Caution: Keep away from babies and young children.
What are your go-to methods for keeping spiders and insects at bay?
