Why You’re Seeing More Spiders Indoors This Autumn
As temperatures drop and nights get longer, it’s common to notice more spiders appearing inside homes and businesses across the UK. This sudden increase often happens in autumn during spider mating season, when males start venturing indoors in search of females.
Cooler weather also encourages spiders to move inside for warmth and shelter, especially in lofts, garages, and storage areas. While most spiders in the UK are harmless, many people understandably prefer to keep them outdoors.
How to Prevent Spiders from Entering Your Home
If you’d rather avoid unwanted eight-legged visitors, a few simple steps can make a big difference:
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Seal entry points – Check for gaps around windows, doors, vents, and pipework. Use silicone sealant or draught excluders to block them.
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Declutter regularly – Spiders love dark, quiet corners. Keep storage areas tidy and limit piles of boxes, clothes, or papers.
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Vacuum frequently – Remove webs, egg sacs, and insects that spiders feed on. Focus on corners, skirting boards, and under furniture.
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Control lighting – Turn off unnecessary outdoor lights at night, as bright lights attract insects, which then attract spiders.
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Use natural repellents – Spraying diluted peppermint oil, citrus, or vinegar near entry points can help deter spiders.
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Move plants away from doors and windows – Vegetation close to your property provides easy access routes indoors.
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Keep windows closed at night – Especially when lights are on, as spiders and insects are drawn to the warmth.
Seeing more spiders indoors in autumn is perfectly normal, but with a few preventative steps, you can greatly reduce how many find their way inside. Regular maintenance and a tidy environment are the best long-term solutions to keep spiders where they belong… outside!