As September approaches, UK households are bracing for an influx of spiders as mating season begins, peaking in mid-October. A viral TikTok video has highlighted a £1.30 kitchen spray that could help keep the eight-legged creatures at bay.
Why spiders come indoors and when to act
Spiders are drawn inside as temperatures fall, seeking warm, dry spots to mate. The prime time for them to scurry indoors is after 7pm, so homeowners are advised to keep windows closed from that hour where possible. Male house spiders and false widows are particularly active during this period.
Alan Reid, a window specialist at Art Windows and Doors, warned in the Express: "Male house spiders and false widows are on the move, and homes with open windows are at risk of infestation. Now is the time to seal gaps and shut windows before spider season peaks."
The £1.30 spray trick that went viral
Plymouth-based mum Danielle shared her clever deterrent method on TikTok. She applies Astonish Kitchen Cleaner Spray along the gaps of her windows and windowsills. The product, which boasts a "zesty lemon scent" and tackles "grease and kitchen grime with ease," is available at most supermarkets or via Ocado for £1.30.
Danielle captioned her video: "When spider season is upon us and you've already had a huge unwanted eight-legged visitor in the house. Astonish saving the day!" In the comments, she revealed: "When I use it I don't see any spiders! I use it every couple of days on all of my windows and doors."
Why strong scents repel spiders and DIY alternatives
According to Pest UK, spiders have a strong aversion to powerful fragrances such as lemons, limes, oranges, eucalyptus oil, and tea tree oil. Vinegar is another effective scent, though many find its lingering smell off-putting. For a DIY alternative, squeeze half a lemon into water, decant into a spray bottle, and apply to potential entry points.
Viewers added their own tips: one person said, "I put lavender and peppermint oil on a cotton pad and stuffed it in the corner of my window I've had no spiders since." Another suggested using conkers or Badedas bath gel on cotton wool, which contains horse chestnut extract. A third commented, "I burn lavender candles all day and night and have no spiders anywhere in my room."
Additional measures to spider-proof your home
Beyond sprays, experts recommend decluttering and storing food correctly to avoid attracting insects that spiders feed on. Hoovering frequently—especially in corners, behind furniture, and under beds—is highly advised. Removing any cobwebs found inside or near entry points also helps deter spiders from settling in.
