Buzz
You might have come across—or even shared—the long-standing myth that humans swallow an average of eight (or four, or some other arbitrary number of) spiders annually. Although this claim is false, it’s not impossible for a spider to wander into your bed at some point, whether day or night.
If this worries you, there are effective methods to make your bed less inviting to spiders. Here’s what you need to know.
Steps to make your bed less appealing to spiders
Even homes with the tightest seals have some form of outdoor access, whether it’s a small gap in a wall, imperfect weatherstripping beneath a door, or a slightly ajar window. Though minimal, these openings allow spiders, insects, and other pests to enter your home—including your bedroom.
Here are some simple strategies to reduce the likelihood of spiders finding their way onto your bed:
Position your bed away from walls
You don’t have to place your bed in the middle of the room, but if your mattress or bed frame is flush against a wall (or walls) or a window, spiders can easily climb onto your bed. Shifting your bed even a few inches away from walls or windows can make a difference.
Additionally, tuck your sheets and blankets under the mattress instead of letting them drape over the sides. If they touch the floor, spiders can use them as a pathway to climb onto your bed.
Create a peppermint oil spray
While various essential oils (cinnamon, tea tree, lemon) are believed to repel spiders, ants, and other insects, peppermint oil is often the most effective. To craft your own repellent, mix five drops of peppermint oil with a squirt of liquid dish soap in a 16-ounce spray bottle filled with water, then shake well.
Spray the mixture around your bed frame, beneath your bed, on windowsills, and other areas where spiders might gather.
Maintain a clean bedroom
Avoid eating in bed or engaging in activities that might attract other insects. While spiders aren’t interested in crumbs, other bugs are, and spiders will prey on them. Additionally, keep the space under your bed tidy. Spiders thrive in dark, cluttered areas, so vacuuming under your bed and storing items in sealed containers will make the space less inviting to them.
