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Brits urged to make 35p spray to keep spiders out of homes during mating season

Spiders typically start to migrate indoors in late mid to late August, with their numbers peaking in September, which can be because of mating season

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By Fiona Callingham, Health Reporter specialising in medical studies, symptoms of diseases and conditions, real life stories and the latest public health issues., Natalie King, Travel Journalist

Daddy-Long-Leg Spider

It's the time of year when spiders start to invade homes (Image: Getty)

Few people like spiders, and many suffer from an outright fear of the critters. For these people, the end of August may prove especially unsettling.

Spiders generally begin migrating indoors during mid to late August, with their populations reaching their peak in September. The approaching spider mating season, sees male spiders venturing into homes seeking females. And if this wasn't bad enough for those suffering from arachnophobia, larger spiders are set to become an increasingly frequent sight across the UK, reports the Mirror.

The RSPB recently announced that Britain's largest spider species - fen raft spiders - are experiencing a resurgence throughout Britain. These creatures can grow to the size of rats, and prey upon fish. 

Enormous false widow spiders are also poised to begin infiltrating people's homes within weeks. Their bites may trigger agonising burns and inflammation, potentially resulting in fever.

Fortunately, measures exist to "spider-proof" our homes, including one using ingredients found in every kitchen. Experts consulted by House Beautiful revealed that a mixture of water and vinegar proves sufficient to deter these pests.

The publication said: "Spiders are sensitive to vinegar's odour and sour taste, making it another brilliant natural deterrent. To repel spiders from the nooks and crannies of your house, simply spritz a little vinegar and water solution in hidden corners."

Child trapping spider under glass

Are you seeing more spiders in your home? (Image: Elva Etienne via Getty Images)

Adam Pawson, head of digital at Safestyle UK, advised House Beautiful: "Spray half water and half vinegar all over the crevices of your window, being careful to avoid varnished surfaces as vinegar can be harsh on these. Not only will you be keeping spiders out, vinegar is a great repellent for anyone struggling with ant infestations."

Vinegar can be bought cheaply in supermarkets, costing just 35p at Tesco

This advice is supported by Green Pest Solutions, which recommends using white vinegar for the spray. "Since the odour alone may be enough to repel them, you can place small dishes of diluted white vinegar in corners, underneath furniture, or other dark areas where they might be tempted to set up shop", they suggested. 

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