It’s widely believed that insects only enter homes in the summer, but that’s not entirely true. In fact, gardeners are often spraying patios and driveways with vinegar until November. Spiders are a common visitor this time of year, which is why pest control experts recommend sprinkling vinegar on patios and gardens during the fall.
Spiders increase their activity in late summer, specifically in September with many species seeking warm places
It turns out that, according to experts, it’s precisely at this time of year that it’s best to pay attention to gardens, plants, and outdoor areas in general. It’s true that with the drop in temperature, people tend to focus on the interior of their homes, but if you have outdoor spaces, they shouldn’t be neglected. Spiders increase their activity in late summer, specifically in September, with many species seeking warm places to lay their eggs. These places are usually found near homes.
University of Reading: more than 70% of people admit to feeling repulsed by the presence of spiders in their homes
The fact is that as autumn approaches, during these months, it’s not uncommon to see a considerable increase in these arachnids in homes and gardens. According to a study by the University of Reading, more than 70% of people admit to feeling repulsed by the presence of spiders in their homes. The low temperatures force spiders to seek refuge indoors, entering through cracks in windows, door frames, or small crevices, where they end up leaving unsightly webs. When people encounter them, they resort to chemical insecticides, although these products can be toxic to children, pets, and plants. Therefore, more and more homes are opting for natural solutions.
Their sensory system is extremely sensitive to volatile acids, and vinegar interferes with their chemoreceptors
These different solutions are not only good for the home’s overall ecosystem, but also for the insects themselves, as they repel them without harming them. White vinegar can also be an excellent natural spider repellent. Its strong, acidic scent acts as an olfactory barrier for spiders. Their sensory system is extremely sensitive to volatile acids, and vinegar interferes with their chemoreceptors, located in their legs, experts say. Not to mention the fact that white vinegar is often present in homes or is easily available.
Some people add a few drops of lemon, lavender, or peppermint essential oil to soften the scent
In any case, experts advise preparing a homemade mixture of half vinegar and half water in a spray bottle. With this simple solution, you can spray patios, paths, windowsills, and doorframes, creating a preventive barrier against spiders. Some people add a few drops of lemon, lavender, or peppermint essential oil to soften the scent. Each person can use this remedy however they prefer; the key is always to look for more natural and eco-friendly options.
White vinegar is a non-toxic, inexpensive, and easy-to-prepare option, making it ideal for use
Experts recommend applying it outdoors once or twice a week, especially after rainy days. While indoors, spraying small amounts in corners and areas with little traffic is sufficient. In any case, white vinegar is a non-toxic, inexpensive, and easy-to-prepare option, making it ideal for use both indoors and outdoors. It also leaves no harmful residue and can be applied safely, even in homes with small children or pets.
In short, it’s a practice that many people are using due to its efficiency and ease. White vinegar, unlike pesticides, doesn’t pollute the air or damage surfaces. It decomposes quickly and doesn’t harm pollinators or the soil. It also disorients animals and insects without harming them, as mentioned above. Therefore, white vinegar is a great option if we want to keep insects away without harming the ecosystem or the environment.