It's currently spider mating season, which might explain why you're noticing more eight-legged critters than usual. Each year, from late August and peaking in early October, male spiders are on the hunt for females to mate with. As the weather turns colder, they abandon their webs in search of warmer indoor spaces, making it a particularly difficult time for those with a fear of spiders. Fortunately, there are measures you can take to deter them from invading your home.

For those keen to keep these creepy crawlies at bay this autumn, three natural deterrents have been suggested that won't require any significant expenditure. TR Cleaning Services, based in Weston-super-Mare, took to TikTok to share these tips, and people are eager to try them out.

The cleaning experts shared three natural deterrents, stating: "First, clean your windows. Then use white vinegar and water mixed in a spray bottle."

Mixing equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and applying it to entry points, cracks and corners can help keep spiders at bay. White vinegar contains acetic acid, which spiders find highly unpleasant.

Another option, which also leaves your home smelling delightful, is to use a mixture of peppermint oil and water in a spray bottle instead.

Once more, this approach works in principle as spiders detest both the scent and flavour through their limbs. However, you may want to avoid this technique if you own pets.

Numerous essential oils, including peppermint, eucalyptus and tea tree oil can prove toxic to animals.

Another technique they suggested involved rubbing lemon rind along window cracks, where spiders could be drawn to gain entry. Spiders dislike potent citrus aromas such as oranges, lemons and limes.

It confuses and irritates their sensory system.

When questioned about the frequency they would advise for this practice, a cleaning specialist responded: "I do this once a week just to make sure. Only get the odd spider here and there, before I would get loads, so I would say they work for me personally."

Having similarly trialled these techniques, another commented: "Lemon works on mine."

Additional approaches you might consider for preventing spiders from gaining access to your dwelling include blocking entry routes, by ensuring there are no fissures, openings and cavities around doors, windows or walls.

Diminishing external illumination can also prove beneficial, as spiders are drawn to insects, which are attracted to lights. It may also assist to maintain a tidy home by hoovering frequently, clearing cobwebs immediately upon spotting them, and organising storage spaces.

Since spiders consume insects, you ought to eliminate the food sources that attract these creatures, by clearing away crumbs and storing food in sealed containers. Empty the bins consistently, and ensure they remain covered.