Rentokil, a pest control provider, is sharing its top tips for householders to prevent the presence of spiders in their homes this Autumn. As temperatures begin to drop, spiders become more prevalent as they start to move indoors and begin breeding, ahead of the winter months.

Many common spider species lay on average approximately 100 eggs at a time, contained in silken sacs which may be fixed to an indoor surface or hidden in a spider web. The presence of these sacs indicate that a larger spider infestation is on the horizon.

There are many different species of spiders in Ireland but most are not considered dangerous and rarely bite. Giant house spiders, measuring around 120mm, are one of the most common types of native spiders.

Richard Faulkner, Advanced Technical Field Consultant with Rentokil Initial says, “As the warm weather comes to end, you are more likely to see spiders indoors due to a variety factors, including the need to seek food and shelter. Insects, spider’s main food source, also retreat indoors at this time of year, so while the presence of spiders may be unpleasant, they are also providing you with a form of free pest control. House spiders actually have a generally positive impact on a household environment, as they eat other insects.

Rentokil’s top tips to prevent spider infestations include:

• Vacuum regularly, high and low - particularly sheltered spots such as beneath worktops, backs of cupboards or under/behind large furniture.
• Remove noticeable webs - on a regular basis.
• Fill in gaps - in walls, around pipework and under doors to deter entry.
• Remove sheltering sites - like firewood piles, garden bags, compost piles and general clutter from near your property.