Brits urged to keep windows closed and lights low in the evenings this autumn

Brits are being advised to keep their windows closed and lights dimmed at night this autumn.

As the UK reaches the peak of spider season, spiders are seeking warmth in houses, sheds, and garages as the weather cools down.

With spider mating season taking place in September and October, experts recommend keeping doors and windows closed and lights low in the evenings to deter them.

Spiders can infiltrate homes through open windows, chimneys, and gaps under doors, while house spiders prefer to reside indoors, often hiding in cracks and crevices.

experts suggest relocating outdoor bins away from open windows, reducing evening lighting, and using citrus, lavender, and tea tree oil scents that spiders dislike, reports .

A spokesperson from GardenBuildingsDirect stated: "Spiders don't have the best reputation and some people really don't like sharing their home with them.

"We've put together a few tips to deter the eight-legged creepy crawlies without harming them. Spiders are a good bug to have around - they eat common pests like flies and are a food source for other animals.

"However, if they're really not for you, think about some simple changes like using scents they dislike, keeping the garden debris free and moving outdoor bins away from open windows. Maybe think about a wheelie bin storage shed too.

"Other things you can try include leaving pet hair where spiders come in and filling any gaps around the home."

Here are the experts' top tips for keeping spiders away from your home.

Citrus scents

Lemon, lime and oranges all deter spiders. Try spritzing these fragrances around window ledges and doorways.

Other smells that spiders can't stand include eucalyptus oil, lavender, tea tree oil, peppermint oil and vinegar.

Bugs

Invite natural predators like ladybirds and birds into your garden. They'll help keep the spider population under control.

Fill in the gaps

Maintain clean and tidy corners - these are prime spots for web spinning. Seal any cracks and openings to prevent spiders from entering.

Plants

Consider adding spider-repelling plants to your indoor spaces to ward off the eight-legged critters. Peppermint, lavender, mint and lemon balm are great choices.

You could place them in pots outside by your front and back doors and near any windows you frequently leave open.

Conkers

Conkers are believed to be an effective spider deterrent. Position them in areas of your home where you often see spiders, such as window ledges and door frames.

Close the window

If you usually sleep with the window open, shut it. Spiders are night creatures and leaving the window open will invite them in.

Dim the lights

Spiders are also drawn to light. Dim the lights if you can or use a lamp instead to stop the creepy crawlies sneaking in.

Clear away dead bugs

Dead flies and other small insects make perfect spider meals. So clear them away to reduce the food sources available.

Eucalyptus tree

Plant a eucalyptus tree in your garden. Spiders aren't fans of its potent, medicinal aroma.

Outdoor bins

Shift them away from doors and open windows. Spiders are fond of flies, which are often found around bins.

Don't forget to shut the bin lids.

Pet hair

Spiders aren't fans of the texture of pet hair. If you have a pet, allow the fur to gather in areas where spiders tend to sneak in.

Garden maintenance

Tidy up autumn leaves, grass clippings and any other garden waste. Spiders and other insects adore hiding in these.