How to Keep Spiders Away from Patio (8 Ways)

Spiders can be scary and dangerous. You can keep them away from your patio with several effective methods. Spiders don’t like strong odors, so some essential oils work well as deterrents. You can also use DE or hedge apples placed around the patio. Always remove spider webs and egg sacs, and do not keep clutter on the patio that provides hiding spots for spiders.

Spending time on your patio should be relaxing and safe. In this article, we’re looking at ways to keep spiders away from your patio space so you can enjoy it with your family and friends safely. Keep reading to learn about several methods that keep spiders away from patios.

Are Spiders Harmless On your Patio?

Some spiders are harmless. Though they may look scary, spiders play an important role in keeping the bug population under control around your house. That being said, other spiders are quite dangerous, so you don’t want them around your family and pets.

Homeowners often utilize the services of companies that provide spraying for insects and spiders. You can certainly use that option. However, the following are things you can do yourself to keep spiders away from your patio.

Keep the Bugs Away

Start by taking steps to keep bugs away from your patio. Insects attract spiders because they’re what spiders eat. So, if you keep the bugs away, it helps keep the spiders away, too.

One simple way you can keep bugs away from your patio is to turn the lights off at night. Lights attract bugs. Spiders build webs where they know there’s plenty of food nearby. Use your lights only when you need them and if you must have them on for longer, install bulbs with yellow light as they don’t attract as many insects.

Spray the Patio with Essential Oils

Spiders do not like strong odors. Chestnut and peppermint oils have strong aromas. You can mix about 7 drops of either of these into a couple of cups of water in a spray bottle. Spray places on your patio that would make good hiding spots for spiders.

Other oils may work just as well. You can use oils, such as eucalyptus, citrus, lavender, or rosemary, also.

One note of caution on using the oils is peppermint and citrus can be poisonous for cats. If you have pets, you may want to consult with your veterinarian before putting down any essential oils.

Don’t Let Spiders Settle In

Spiders build spider webs to live in and trap food. As soon as you notice a spider web on your patio, knock it down. Don’t let a spider get comfortable or have time to trap bugs to eat. They won’t stay if it’s too hard to survive.

When you leave spider webs where they are, you’re essentially inviting spiders to stay. It’s best to continue knocking down webs so they don’t stay around. Most of us don’t know how to differentiate between harmless spiders and those that are dangerous. What’s more is, even if they’re harmless, they may still bite.

Try Setting Out Hedge Apples

Hedge apples are small and green. It’s believed that spiders do not like the chemicals in hedge apples. You can set a few of them around your patio to deter spiders from coming around.

Be aware that neighborhood animals like squirrels, chipmunks, and rabbits may eat your hedge apples. You may want to keep a backup stash in the event this ends up happening.

Use DE Powder

What is DE powder, you may ask. DE is short for diatomaceous earth. This powder doesn’t just deter spiders, it kills them.

Sprinkle the powder around the dark hiding spots of your patio. When a spider comes in contact with DE powder, it works to break down the exoskeleton and kills it.

This powder doesn’t stay put in wind and rain. You’ll need to reapply it after any bad weather.

DE powder isn’t good to inhale or allow for contact with skin. Make sure you take precautions when you’re applying it to your patio. Also, if you have small children or pets, this may not be the best option for your situation.

Declutter Your Patio

Spiders love to hide and lay eggs in egg sacs amongst clutter you keep laying around the patio. For instance, stacks of wood for a fireplace or firepit make ideal hiding spots for spiders.

Keep clutter-like woodpiles and toy bins away from the patio. Stack those things in areas where you and your family do not hang out.

Also, if you notice any egg sacs anywhere, get rid of them. You don’t want a bunch of tiny baby spiders hatching on your patio. Be careful not to bust the sac open, as that may release them if they’re close to hatching. You can vacuum it up and then dispose of it properly.

Don’t Allow Plants to Get Overgrown Around the Patio

It’s best to keep plants away from your patio. Plants are another invitation to spiders, just like leaving their webs up.

If you do have plants close to the patio, keep them nicely trimmed. Overgrown plants are havens for spiders and insects. You don’t want plants at the edge of your patio or growing over top of it.

It’s best to keep your grass trimmed short, as well. Tall grass is just like overgrown plants. It invites spiders to stay around and hide or build webs amongst the blades.

Spray for Spiders

If all else fails, and you’re noticing too many spiders around your patio, you can purchase spider sprays from home repair stores. Use them with caution, though. Make sure you know if they’re safe for kids and animals and use them sparingly, if possible.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to keep spiders away from your patio is beneficial for you and your family. Some spiders are extremely dangerous. Others are just a nuisance to have around. Either way, it’s best to keep them away from the spots you like to relax to ensure everyone stays safe.

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How to Keep Spiders Away from Patio (8 Ways)