WITH spider season among us, homes in Reading are going to welcome pesky spiders who, up until now, largely remained outdoors.

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According to Pest UK, here are ten ways to keep spiders out of your home.

1. Strong smells

Pest UK explains strong smells such as citrus aromas are a natural way to deter spiders from entering your home.

The website says rub or spray around window sills and doors with these scents to help prevent spiders from entering.

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2. Cats and dogs

Pets who enjoy a game of chase when they spot a spider can help to get rid of the odd few around the house.

3. Keep windows shut at night

Most spiders are nocturnal, so keep windows and doors closed while you sleep to prevent them from getting into your home at night.

4. Keep the lights down

Pest UK reveals spiders are drawn to light, so turn outside lights off when you’re not using them and keep doors and windows closed or blinds shut when the lights are on inside.

5. Clear the clutter

Spiders love hiding in boxes and packages so keep your home tidy and free of clutter.

6. Get rid of webs

Check your rooms regularly, particularly corners, for spider webs and remove them where ever you find them.

7. Limit access to food

Pest UK says people should remove any dead flies or other creepy crawlies from doorways and window sills as these look like a tasty treat to spiders.

8. Vacuum regularly

Vacuum regularly and thoroughly, taking special care in awkward spots behind cupboards, in dark corners, and under sofas where spiders like to hide.

9. Fill gaps

Seal or fill any cracks to prevent spiders from moving into them.

10. Conkers

An old wives’ tale tells that apparently, spiders don’t like conkers.

While there’s no evidence to back this up a row of conkers on the window sill still makes a festive autumn decoration.