It may sound like something out of the myths, fairytales and legends of households, but it actually works. Not only is peppermint oil quite effective in getting rid of spiders, it is safe, eco-friendly and is arguably the best natural spider repellent that has no adverse effect on people, houses, or the environment. Advantage Pest Services, which does pest control in Madison MS, has helped us explain in more detail.
Spiders are the most common insects that are found indoors due to the warmth. Spiders are professionals spinners of webs in unused areas, corners, and crevices in the home. Spiders makes use of the unused parts of your home; they are like unwanted guests that make your home theirs. Although some breeds are harmless, there are also some others that are quite poisonous.
What Is Peppermint Oil?
Peppermint oil is the oil made from peppermint leaves or extracts. It is a natural, eco-friendly, safe, and effective repellent to spiders and is a good spider control method. It can be used undiluted or diluted with a water mixture. It is a natural insecticide.
Spiders perceive with their legs. After perceiving the oil and picking up its scent, they run off in the opposite direction of the oil. It works for all kinds of spider species and is quite effective.
How Do You Apply It?
You can apply peppermint oil to the entrance, cracks, crevices, and other hidden places in the home. Dip some cotton wool balls in the solution and place them in strategic places around the house. You can also use peppermint tea bags to repel them. Another method is to get peppermint plants in pots around your home and at the back door to keep them away.
Benefits of Using Peppermint Oil
- It prevents the risk of exposing your family to harmful chemicals.
- It is a useful, natural, and effective way of driving spiders away.
- It is the best and most effective homemade natural spider repellent.
- It is a DIY remedy.
Are There Any Side Effects of Using Peppermint Oil?
Side effects only occur when there have been cases of inhaling large doses of peppermint oil. Peppermint oil is meant to be applied in small doses, so when you inhale large quantities of it, it can cause the following;
- Skin irritation
- Muscle weakness
- Double vision
- Harm to pets, as peppermint oil is toxic to them
How to Effectively Make Use of Peppermint Oil to Repel Spiders
- Pour five drops of peppermint oil into a 16-ounce spray bottle. Fill the bottle with water and add a drop of dish soap. Shake the mixture very well and apply it to all affected areas: dark corners, crevices, doors, windows, etc.
- Apply it regularly, possibly twice a week to prevent the reappearing of spiders.
- Place the peppermint plants in places in and around your home to effectively get rid of spiders.
- Spray large amounts of peppermint oil in open areas, and lesser amounts in closed areas.
- Sprinkle peppermint leaves in strategic places.
- Avoid spraying the whole house at once.
- Open the windows and spray small areas at a time.
What Else Can I Use Besides Peppermint Oil?
There are several oils that can be used in place of the peppermint oil. They may not be quite as effective in the repelling of spiders but they are good substitutes. They include the following;
- Eucalyptus oil
- Tea tree oil
- Lavender oil
- Lemon oil
- Cedar mulch
- Citronella oil
- Sticky glue traps for spiders
Are There Pesticides for Repelling Spiders?
Pyrethrins and pyrethroids: Pyrethrins are natural insecticides made from chrysanthemum flower extracts, while pyrethroids are manmade chemical insecticides that last longer. Both of these chemicals stimulate the nervous systems of spiders and paralyze or kill them instantly. They are available as liquids, powders, foggers, and big bombs.
Carbaryl: Carbaryl is also known as I-naphthyl methylcarbarnate, a pesticide chemical that kills spiders by disrupting their nervous systems. They are available as liquids, powders, granule, wettable powder, and trap forms.
How to Prevent Spiders from Returning
After combating and repelling the spiders with peppermint oil, the next step is to do some cleaning up so that they don’t come back. Make your home less attractive for them to stay by ensuring that you do the following;
- Remove visible cobwebs and spider egg sacks
- Dust regularly
- Vacuum regularly around the corners
- Remove all leaf piles and compost piles next to your home
- Seal up all cracks
- Seal window screens and doors properly
If peppermint oil doesn’t seem to work, which only occurs in rare cases, see a professional exterminator. Remember to use peppermint oil in small quantities to avoid side effects.