In many European countries (especially in Great Britain and Poland) it has been repeated for generations that chestnuts placed on the windowsill, at the door or in the corners of the rooms are supposed to make it in a wide arc. There is no clear scientific evidence that spiders really hate chestnuts, but there are several hypotheses.
- Smell and chemical compounds – chestnuts contain saponins, which naturally protect the plant against pests. It is possible that these substances also irritate spiders.
- Glossy surface – there are theories that the reflective, smooth skin may confuse insects and spiders.
- Placebo effect… for people – sometimes belief in effectiveness is enough to give the impression that there are fewer spiders.
Does it work in practice? Well, some people swear that since they put up the chestnut trees, the house has become calmer. Others say it’s just a nice autumn decoration. It’s worth a try though – especially since this a cheap, natural and absolutely harmless way.
If you want to test this trick, one chestnut accidentally abandoned somewhere in the house is not enough. For the method to have a chance of working, it is good to approach it with greater commitment.
1. Collect fresh chestnuts – preferably those that have recently fallen from the tree, still shiny and hard.
2. Place them in strategic places:
- on the windowsills,
- at the door frames,
- in the corners of the room,
- in the bathroom (this is one of spiders’ favorite places).
3. Make sure that the chestnuts do not rot – replace them with new ones every few weeks, because over time they lose their freshness and may become a breeding ground for mold.
4. You can also cut the chestnut in half – then the scent will be more intense.
It’s very simple, and even if chestnuts don’t repel spiders 100%, at least they do They will become a nice autumn decoration.
If you want to reduce the number of arachnids in your home, you have a few at your disposal – as simple as chestnuts.
Smells spiders don’t like
Spiders have sensitive receptors and do not like intense aromas. You can use:
- peppermint oil – a few drops dissolved in water and sprayed near the windows,
- lavender – dried bouquets in cabinets and by the door,
- vinegar – a solution of vinegar and water is great for wiping window frames.
Cleanliness and order
Although it sounds trivial, dust, cobwebs and untidy corners favor the presence of spiders. Regular vacuuming, especially in the corners, can work wonders.
Meshes and seals
If you don’t want spiders to enter through windows and doors, install mosquito nets. Also check for gaps in skirting boards and seals.
Citrus fruits
You can leave lemon or orange peels on the windowsill or rub them on the window frames. Spiders don’t like this aroma.
In most cases, chestnuts, oils or mosquito nets will solve the problem. But if you have the impression that there are a lot of spiders, it is worth considering whether they are attracted by other factors – e.g. moisture, mold, leaky windows. In extreme situations, you can call in disinfestation specialists, although in practice this is rarely necessary.
Citrus fruits
Lemon or orange peels can be left on the windowsill or rubbed on the window frames. Spiders don’t like this aroma.
In most cases, chestnuts, oils or mosquito nets will solve the problem. But if you feel like there are a lot of spiders, it is worth considering whether they are not attracted by other factors – e.g. moisture, mold, leaky windows. In extreme situations, you can call in disinfestation specialists, although in practice this is rarely necessary.
