Seeing more spiders at home? Experts warn about what may be attracting them

If spiders have appeared more often in your home in recent days, indoor plants may be part of the explanation, but not for the reason many people assume. Experts say the plants themselves usually do not attract house spiders. Instead, the conditions around them can create an appealing source of food and shelter.

The arrival of autumn makes spiders more active as they seek food, protection and places to mate. Overwatering, damp soil and rotting leaves can attract small insects, including fungus gnats that feed on fungi in the soil. Those insects can then become prey for spiders. Dense plants also give spiders secluded places to hide, especially varieties with abundant leaves, such as ivy, ferns, philodendrons, bromeliads and spider plants.

The same humid, sheltered conditions may encourage other pests, including scale insects, mealybugs, whiteflies and spider mites. Ella Duggan, a home-maintenance advice writer cited by Express from Good Housekeeping, said people who notice more spiders may be making their homes more attractive to them through everyday habits. Natalie Bungay of the British Pest Control Association said the insects around houseplants, rather than the plants themselves, are the more likely attraction.

To reduce spider activity, advice includes removing dry or dead leaves, cleaning plant leaves and avoiding excessive watering. New plants should be inspected before they enter the home, as should flowers, firewood and other objects that have been outdoors. Webs, eggs or spiders can be removed carefully with a soft brush or vacuum cleaner. Sealing cracks around windows and doors may also limit entry. DIY writer Kamana Bhaskaran recommends spraying water mixed with a few drops of peppermint oil around cracks and door areas.

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If you have been noticing spiders much more often lately, you are not the only one, but it is possible that our habits are making the home more attractive to them.