There are few autumn surprises less welcome than a large spider making a sudden appearance across the living-room floor. You don’t have to be a full-blown arachnophobe to want to avoid these less-than-welcome guests this winter. With spider mating season well underway, it can feel as though they’ve all decided to move in at once. But many house spiders are simply more noticeable this time of year: males leave their webs to look for females and our homes can wind up being their favourite meet-up spot.
The latest suggestion doing the rounds is a ‘window curfew’ – a small change to your evening routine that could make it harder for spiders to wander in. It’s simple, free and worth trying during the busier months. Here’s how it works, and what else can help keep these eight-legged visitors outside.
What is the spider window curfew
Essential, the trick is as simple as this. Close any and all open windows in the early evening, around dusk, during the busier spider months (August through October). A fixed 7pm cut-off can be surprisingly effective, but dusk changes through the season, so try to aim for just before sundown.
The Natural History Museum says house spiders move around at night, especially from August to October, and can enter through open windows and gaps around doors. The curfew is a simple way to limit one possible entrance, it’s not exactly fool-proof but it is an incredibly simple, and effective way to disrupt their movements.
How to try it: Air rooms earlier in the day, we don’t want spiders but we also don’t want a stuffy home, then close windows as it gets dark where practical. If you need a window open for ventilation, a fitted insect screen can let air through while helping keep spiders and other insects out.
More ways to keep spiders out
- Block the other entry points. Check for gaps beneath external doors and around window frames; seal suitable gaps with draught excluders or filler. But be sure to keep vents clear where they’re needed for ventilation. Good air-flow is still essential this time of year to avoid condensation or mould brewing.
- Fit or repair insect screens. These are especially useful for windows you regularly leave open.
- Tidy around windows and doors. You want to limit as many hiding spots as you can, great advice where all pests are concerned. Move clutter, leaves or dense plants away from entry points where you can, and clear away webs when they appear.
- Keep a perspective. Spiders are a normal part of the home environment and eat insects. The British Arachnological Society says it’s impossible to keep a house spider-free for long, so focus on reducing easy routes inside rather than expecting a permanent fix.
