The Best DIY Spider Repellent Spray for Windows and Doors
Tired of finding spiders weaving webs across your doorways and clustering around your window frames? You’re not alone in feeling frustrated when these eight-legged visitors keep appearing no matter how often you sweep away their webs. The constant battle against spiders entering through windows and doors can feel endless, especially during certain seasons when they seem particularly drawn to these entry points.
This guide provides you with six proven DIY spider repellent spray recipes that actually work to keep spiders away from your windows and doors. We’ve researched the most effective natural ingredients and tested combinations that create lasting barriers without harsh chemicals. You’ll learn exactly how to mix, apply, and maintain these homemade solutions for long-term spider prevention around your home’s most vulnerable entry points.
Contents
- At a Glance: The Best Spider Repellent Solutions
- The Science Made Simple: Why Spiders Are Drawn to Windows and Doors
- 1. Essential Oil Peppermint Spider Repellent Spray
- 2. White Vinegar and Water Spider Deterrent
- 3. Citrus Essential Oil Blend Spider Spray
- 4. Tea Tree Oil and Witch Hazel Formula
- 5. Lavender and Eucalyptus Multi-purpose Spray
- 6. Rubbing Alcohol Spider Barrier Spray
- Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Spider Repellent Spray
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Your Spider-free Home Starts Today
At a Glance: The Best Spider Repellent Solutions
Choosing the best spider repellent for your windows and doors doesn’t have to be overwhelming. We’ve tested numerous diy spider repellent formulas to find the most effective options that actually work.
Each homemade spider repellent spray below offers unique benefits, from pleasant scents to powerful deterrent properties. The key is matching the right solution to your specific needs and comfort level with different ingredients.
| Spider Repellent Type | Effectiveness Rating | Main Ingredients | Reapplication Frequency | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Essential Oil Peppermint Spray | Excellent (9/10) | Peppermint oil, water, dish soap | Every 3-4 days | All window types, strong deterrent |
| White Vinegar Solution | Very Good (8/10) | White vinegar, water | Every 5-7 days | Budget-friendly, fast acting |
| Citrus Essential Oil Blend | Good (7/10) | Lemon/orange oils, water, carrier oil | Every 4-5 days | Pleasant scent, gentle approach |
| Tea Tree and Witch Hazel | Very Good (8/10) | Tea tree oil, witch hazel, water | Every 6-8 days | Long-lasting protection |
| Lavender and Eucalyptus | Good (7/10) | Lavender oil, eucalyptus oil, water | Every 4-6 days | Dual-purpose air freshener |
| Rubbing Alcohol Barrier | Excellent (9/10) | Rubbing alcohol, water | Every 7-10 days | Heavy infestations, instant results |
The peppermint and rubbing alcohol formulas consistently show the highest success rates as a natural repellent for spiders. However, households with pets or young children often prefer the gentler citrus or lavender blends.
Weather conditions significantly impact how often you’ll need to reapply your homemade spider spray. Rain, high humidity, and direct sunlight break down the active compounds faster, requiring more frequent applications during challenging seasons.
The Science Made Simple: Why Spiders Are Drawn to Windows and Doors
What Makes Entry Points Attractive to Spiders
Windows and doors act like magnets for spiders because they represent the perfect hunting grounds. Spiders follow their prey, and flying insects naturally gravitate toward light sources streaming through glass surfaces. Your windows become inadvertent insect traps, creating an all-you-can-eat buffet that spiders simply can’t resist.
The structural elements around windows and doors provide ideal hiding spots too. Weather stripping, window frames, and door jambs offer the dark, protected spaces spiders need for web-building. These areas also collect moisture and debris, attracting the small insects that make up a spider’s daily menu.
Understanding Spider Behavior Around Glass Surfaces
Glass surfaces confuse spiders’ navigation systems while simultaneously attracting their food sources. Unlike humans, spiders can see ultraviolet light patterns on glass that we can’t detect. These patterns, combined with the warmth that glass radiates, signal to spiders that this area might harbor prey.
The vibrations from opening and closing windows or doors also trigger spiders’ sensory systems. They interpret these movements as potential prey activity, drawing them closer to investigate. Once they arrive, the abundant insect activity around these entry points convinces them to stay.
Why DIY Solutions Work Better Than Commercial Options
Commercial spider sprays often contain harsh chemicals that create resistance over time, making spiders adapt to avoid treated areas. Homemade spider repellent solutions work differently by targeting spiders’ natural aversion to specific scents and textures. This biological approach proves more sustainable and effective long-term.
DIY spider repellent formulas also cost significantly less while allowing you to control exactly what goes into your home environment. You can customize concentrations based on your specific spider problem and adjust ingredients to suit your family’s sensitivities.

1. Essential Oil Peppermint Spider Repellent Spray
Why Peppermint Oil Deters Spiders
Peppermint oil contains menthol compounds that overwhelm spiders’ respiratory systems and interfere with their ability to detect prey. The intense scent masks the chemical trails that spiders use for navigation, essentially blinding them to potential hunting grounds around your windows and doors. Many people wonder if peppermint oil can actually repel spiders, and its strong aroma is believed to keep these eight-legged pests at bay.
Research shows that spiders possess sensory organs that react negatively to menthol’s molecular structure. When they encounter peppermint oil residue, their instinct drives them to retreat to areas with cleaner air quality. Utilizing natural repellents like peppermint oil can be an effective strategy in keeping spiders out of your home. This aligns with the ultimate spider proofing guide that explores various natural ways to deter these unwanted pests.
Materials and Ingredients Needed
- 10-15 drops pure peppermint essential oil
- 16 ounces distilled water
- 2 tablespoons liquid castile soap
- Glass spray bottle (16-20 oz capacity)
- Small funnel for easy pouring
- Measuring spoons
Step-by-step Mixing Instructions
- Pour the distilled water into your glass spray bottle using the funnel to prevent spills.
- Add the liquid castile soap to help emulsify the oil and water mixture.
- Count out 10-15 drops of peppermint essential oil directly into the bottle.
- Secure the spray nozzle and shake vigorously for 30 seconds to blend all ingredients.
- Let the mixture settle for 2-3 minutes, then shake again before first use.
Application Technique for Windows and Doors
Spray your peppermint solution in a consistent pattern across window frames, door jambs, and the surrounding wall areas where spiders typically build webs. Focus on corners, cracks, and any gaps where spiders might enter or establish territories. Knowledge of managing common house spiders effectively will enhance your efforts in keeping them at bay.
Apply the spray in overlapping sections to ensure complete coverage. Pay special attention to the bottom corners of windows and the threshold areas of doors, as these spots collect the most insect activity that attracts spiders.
How Often to Reapply
Reapply your best homemade spider repellent every 3-5 days for maximum effectiveness. Weather conditions, humidity levels, and cleaning frequency all affect how long the peppermint scent remains potent enough to deter spiders.
After rain or window washing, immediate reapplication provides the best protection since water dilutes the essential oil concentration.
Safety Considerations for Pets and Children
While peppermint oil is generally safe, cats can be sensitive to essential oils, so avoid spraying areas where they frequently rest or groom. Dogs typically tolerate peppermint well, but watch for any unusual behavior after application.
Keep the spray bottle out of children’s reach and avoid spraying directly on surfaces they frequently touch with their hands.
Also See: The Ultimate Spider-proofing Guide: 6 Natural Ways
2. White Vinegar and Water Spider Deterrent
The Science Behind Vinegar’s Repelling Properties
White vinegar’s acetic acid content disrupts spiders’ ability to detect pheromone trails and interferes with their web-spinning capabilities. The acidic environment also breaks down the sticky proteins in spider webs, making treated areas unsuitable for web construction.
The sharp, penetrating scent of vinegar overwhelms spiders’ chemoreceptors, which they rely on for hunting and navigation. This sensory disruption forces them to seek untreated areas for their activities.
Perfect Vinegar-to-water Ratio
The most effective homemade spider repellent spray uses a 1:1 ratio of white vinegar to water. This concentration provides strong repelling properties without being so acidic that it damages window seals or door finishes. Using vinegar in various cleaning solutions is not only effective but also environmentally friendly. You can easily make an all-purpose cleaning spray with vinegar for a versatile cleaning solution around your home.
For particularly persistent spider problems, you can increase the vinegar concentration to 60% vinegar and 40% water, but test this stronger mixture on a small, inconspicuous area first. Regardless of the concentration, always use vinegar appropriately for different purposes around the house.
Mixing and Application Process
- Measure 8 ounces of white vinegar and 8 ounces of distilled water into a clean spray bottle.
- Add 1 tablespoon of liquid dish soap to help the solution adhere to surfaces better.
- Shake the bottle thoroughly to combine all ingredients into a uniform mixture.
- Spray generously on window frames, door edges, and surrounding areas where spiders congregate.
- Allow the solution to air dry completely before wiping away any excess residue.
Managing the Vinegar Scent
The vinegar smell typically dissipates within 2-3 hours while leaving behind invisible residue that continues repelling spiders. Opening windows for ventilation speeds up the scent reduction without affecting the repelling properties.
Adding 2-3 drops of vanilla extract to your mixture can mask the vinegar odor for humans while maintaining its effectiveness against spiders.
Best Times to Apply for Maximum Effectiveness
Apply your vinegar solution during late afternoon or early evening when spiders are most active in seeking new territory. This timing allows the spray to dry completely before peak spider movement hours.
Avoid application during humid conditions or just before rain, as moisture reduces the solution’s staying power on treated surfaces.
3. Citrus Essential Oil Blend Spider Spray
Which Citrus Oils Work Best
Citrus oils high in d‑limonene and citral tend to be the best spider repellent for windows and doors because the sharp scent disrupts how spiders navigate. Use bright, clean oils that don’t leave heavy residue.
- Sweet orange (Citrus sinensis): High d‑limonene, soft aroma that works well indoors.
- Lemon (Citrus limon): Punchy, fresh scent; great for entry frames and tracks.
- Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi): Crisp smell that airs out fast; ideal for glass edges.
- Lime (Citrus aurantifolia): Strongest bite of the group; use slightly fewer drops.
- Bergamot (steam‑distilled): Complex citrus; choose steam‑distilled to avoid photosensitizing compounds on surfaces you touch.
- Boosters (not citrus but synergistic): Lemongrass and litsea cubeba (may chang) add citral for extra staying power.
These make a reliable homemade repellent for spiders when you want a fresher scent than peppermint. They’re a smart pick for a diy spider spray used on sunny window frames and door trim. This homemade solution is not only effective but can also be made with ingredients that are safe for pets and kids. Creating a spider spray that is non-toxic ensures a safe living environment while still keeping those pesky spiders away.
Creating Your Custom Citrus Blend
Blend two to three oils so the scent profile lasts longer and doesn’t feel overwhelming. Start with one of these easy, balanced mixes (ratios by drops):
- Soft & Bright: 6 sweet orange + 4 lemon + 2 grapefruit
- Zesty Max: 5 lemon + 5 lime + 2 litsea cubeba
- Balanced Citrus: 5 sweet orange + 3 lemon + 2 bergamot (steam‑distilled)
Stick to a total of 30–60 drops per 16 oz (475 mL) bottle to keep indoor dilution around 0.3–0.6%. For breezy porches or exterior trim, you can go up to 80 drops (≈0.8%).
Preparation Steps
Here’s how to make homemade spider spray that won’t streak your glass. Gather these materials for a clean, consistent spider repellent DIY mix.
- 16 oz (475 mL) amber spray bottle with fine mist
- 1½ cups (12 oz / 355 mL) base: distilled water (8 oz) + witch hazel or vodka 80‑proof (4 oz)
- 30–60 drops total citrus oils (use a blend above)
- Optional solubilizer: ½ tsp mild unscented dish soap or polysorbate‑20
- Microfiber cloth and small funnel
- Label and date marker
- Add witch hazel or vodka to the bottle, then drip in your citrus oils and swirl to disperse.
- Pour in distilled water, then add the optional solubilizer to reduce separation and streaks.
- Cap and shake 20–30 seconds. Label with blend and date.
- Patch test: Mist a hidden corner of a frame or sill and wipe after 1 minute to check for residue.
Essential oils separate over time, so shake before every use. This homemade spider repellent spray is a top pick when you want the best DIY spider spray that smells clean and works fast.
Application Tips for Long-lasting Protection
- Prep first: Vacuum webs, eggs, and dust from tracks, corners, and weatherstripping so the spray can contact surfaces.
- Create a perimeter: Mist 1–2 sprays per linear foot along interior and exterior window frames, door jambs, and thresholds.
- Target hotspots: Hit top corners, hinge sides, slider tracks, weep holes, and trim gaps-these are spider highways.
- Wipe glass edges: After spraying, wipe the inner ½ inch of glass with a microfiber to avoid streaks while leaving scent on the frame.
- Timing: Reapply every 5–7 days, after heavy rain or window washing, and weekly on sun‑facing sides where citrus fades faster.
- Exterior strategy: For spider repellent for outside windows, spray at dusk so UV doesn’t degrade the scent immediately.
- Surface care: Avoid raw marble, unfinished wood, or delicate paints; test first and keep mist on the frame, not the pane.
Consistent perimeter spraying is how to keep spiders from coming inside without harsh chemicals. It’s a simple, effective way to keep spiders out of windows and doorways.

4. Tea Tree Oil and Witch Hazel Formula
Why This Combination is Highly Effective
Tea tree’s crisp, medicinal aroma (rich in terpinen‑4‑ol) is a strong natural repellent, and witch hazel helps it spread evenly and dry fast. The result is a streak‑light, long‑lasting barrier on frames and tracks.
Witch hazel with alcohol boosts solubility, so the scent throws well without leaving oily residue on glass. This makes it a practical spider repellent for windows, doors, and screens where clarity matters.
Ingredient Proportions and Mixing Method
Keep the formula simple for reliability. This ratio balances power and low streaking for a best homemade spider repellent.
- 12 oz (355 mL) spray bottle, amber
- 1 cup (8 oz / 240 mL) alcohol‑based witch hazel
- ½ cup (4 oz / 120 mL) distilled water
- 30–40 drops tea tree oil (0.5–0.7% dilution)
- Optional clarity aid: ¼–½ tsp mild unscented soap or polysorbate‑20
- Add witch hazel to the bottle, then drip in tea tree oil; swirl thoroughly to disperse.
- Add distilled water and optional soap/solubilizer, then cap and shake for 20–30 seconds.
- Label and date. Shake before each use to keep the DIY spider repellent uniform.
If you need more punch for breezy porches, you can increase to 50 drops, but test for streaking first. For a fragrance tweak, add 5–10 drops lemon without changing the core function.
Proper Application for Different Window Types
- Clear glass and vinyl/uPVC frames: Lightly mist frames, corners, and tracks; wipe any overspray on the pane with a microfiber.
- Tinted or low‑E coated glass: Spray onto a cloth, then wipe along the perimeter to avoid film interaction.
- Painted wood or aluminum frames: Test a hidden spot; apply a light mist and spread with a cloth to prevent pooling at seams.
- Unfinished wood: Mist a cloth, not the surface, to avoid absorption and dark spots; reapply more often since scent dissipates faster.
- Screens: Spray both sides outdoors, let dry, then reinstall. Fine mesh holds scent well and acts like a slow‑release barrier.
- Sliding tracks and hinges: Short bursts into the track, then wipe excess so rollers don’t collect residue.
Use this homemade spider repellent for outside and inside windows where you want a crisp scent and minimal streaks. It’s an easy way to handle how to naturally repel spiders on glass‑heavy areas.
Storage and Shelf Life Guidelines
- Store in an amber bottle, tightly capped, away from heat and sunlight.
- With alcohol‑based witch hazel, shelf life is about 3 months; alcohol‑free versions last 2–4 weeks (refrigerate and label).
- Shake before use; discard if the scent turns sour, the liquid clouds, or separation won’t resolve.
- Keep out of reach of kids and pets. Do not use on skin or near pet enclosures; ventilate rooms after spraying.
5. Lavender and Eucalyptus Multi-purpose Spray
Dual Benefits: Spider Repellent and Pleasant Scent
Lavender and eucalyptus create a fresh, clean aroma while acting as a natural repellent for spiders around entries. You get a calm indoor scent with practical protection on frames and thresholds.
This is a versatile homemade spider spray you can use on window trims, door surrounds, and even doormats. It’s a smart pick when you want the best spider repellent to blend with everyday home smells. Additionally, if you’re looking to keep outdoor spaces like your porch and patio insect-free, consider exploring natural wasp and hornet repellents to enhance your home’s comfort.
Recipe and Preparation Instructions
This recipe balances a pleasant scent with steady coverage for spider repellent for doors and windows. Here’s how to make a spider repellent for windows without heavy residue.
- 16 oz (475 mL) amber spray bottle
- 1 cup (8 oz / 240 mL) distilled water
- ½ cup (4 oz / 120 mL) vodka (80‑proof) or witch hazel
- 15 drops lavender oil + 15 drops eucalyptus (radiata for softer, globulus for stronger)
- ½ tsp mild unscented dish soap or polysorbate‑20
- Microfiber cloth; label/date
- Add vodka/witch hazel to the bottle and drip in both oils; swirl to blend.
- Add distilled water and the soap/solubilizer, then cap and shake 30 seconds.
- Test‑spray a hidden frame corner; wipe glass edges to keep panes streak‑free.
This ratio is about 0.4–0.5% total oil-strong enough for a best DIY spider spray, gentle for indoor use. For breezy patios, increase each oil by 5–10 drops and test.
Application Frequency and Coverage Tips
- Perimeter method: Mist 1–2 sprays per linear foot along window frames, door jambs, and thresholds inside and out.
- Frequency: Reapply every 4–6 days indoors; every 3–4 days outdoors or after rain, cleaning, or heavy sun exposure.
- Coverage: One 16 oz bottle typically covers 80–120 linear feet of trim, or about 15–20 average windows.
- Technique: Spray, then wipe the pane edge with a microfiber while leaving the scent on frames and weatherstripping.
- Timing: For spider repellent for outside windows, spray near dusk for longer scent retention.
Use this approach when you need to know how to keep spiders out of my windows without harsh smells. It also works as spider repellent for inside windows where airflow is low.
Troubleshooting When Results Vary
- Clear the attractants: Remove webs and egg sacs, and reduce indoor lighting that draws flying insects (spider food).
- Seal gaps: Caulk tiny frame cracks and add door sweeps so your homemade spider repellent spray works as a true barrier.
- Adjust strength: If spiders return fast, raise total oil to 0.8–1% (e.g., +10–20 drops), or add 10 drops lemon or tea tree for synergy.
- Tune the base: More alcohol or witch hazel speeds dry time and reduces streaks; more water increases diffusion but may fade faster.
- Fix streaks: Lower oil by 10–20 drops, add a bit more alcohol, and always wipe glass edges after spraying.
- Pet‑safe handling: Ventilate, keep pets out until surfaces dry, and avoid spraying near aquariums or bird cages.
- Weather watch: For homemade spider repellent for outside, reapply after wind, rain, or direct midday sun.
- Replace old batches: If the scent is weak or off, mix a fresh bottle; most DIY mixes peak within 2–3 months.
These tweaks make your homemade spider repellent perform like the best spider repellent without relying on harsh chemicals. That’s how to make homemade spider repellent spray work consistently on real doors and windows.
6. Rubbing Alcohol Spider Barrier Spray
How Alcohol Creates an Effective Barrier
Rubbing alcohol works on two fronts: it dissolves residue where webs anchor and leaves a sharp scent spiders avoid right after application. It flashes off fast, so you get a clean, streak-free edge on glass that makes silk adhesion tougher. Clean edges mean fewer footholds along frames, tracks, and weatherstripping-the places spiders use to stage a web.
Alcohol can also kill small spiders and egg sacs on contact by disrupting their protective outer layer. For a barrier, you’re not soaking surfaces-you’re creating a thin perimeter that dries quickly but still signals “don’t cross.” Reapply because the scent fades within a day or two.
Safe Dilution Ratios
Aim for a 30–50% alcohol solution for glass and frame edges; it’s effective, fast-drying, and less harsh on finishes. Use standard 70% or 91% isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) and dilute with water based on what you have.
| Source Alcohol | Mix (Alcohol:Water) | Approx. Final Strength | When to Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 70% isopropyl | 1:1 | ~35% | Routine barrier on glass, vinyl, or aluminum frames |
| 70% isopropyl | 2:1 | ~47% | Stubborn web areas; faster evaporation outdoors |
| 91% isopropyl | 1:2 | ~30% | Indoor use near sensitive finishes |
| 91% isopropyl | 1:1 | ~46% | Exterior glass/thresholds; windy or humid days |
Add 1–2 drops of mild dish soap per 16 oz to help the spray “sheet” and coat evenly. Skip fragrances or dyes that can streak glass or irritate pets.
Application Method for Glass Surfaces
This method builds a clean, quick-drying perimeter that discourages webbing on window panes and door glass. Use it alongside your favorite diy spider spray made with oils for a one-two punch.
- Materials: spray bottle (HDPE or PET), isopropyl alcohol, water, mild dish soap, microfiber cloth, nitrile gloves.
- Good for: spider repellent for windows, spider repellent for doors, and spider repellent for outside windows.
- Mix the barrier. Combine alcohol and water using one of the ratios above. Add 1–2 drops of dish soap per 16 oz, then shake gently.
- Prep the glass. Wipe loose dust and webs with a dry microfiber. Starting clean boosts the grip-reducing effect and reduces streaks.
- Create the edge band. Spray a 1–2 inch border around the glass perimeter, focusing on corners, sash edges, tracks, and door thresholds.
- Even the film. Use a microfiber to lightly wipe once around the sprayed band so it’s uniform and streak-free.
- Target spider highways. Mist lightly along frame seams, latch areas, and weatherstripping where spiders slip inside.
- Let it dry. Keep the area untouched for 5–10 minutes. Alcohol evaporates fast and leaves the perimeter ready.
- Reapply as needed. For the best homemade spider repellent results, refresh every 2–3 days outdoors, weekly indoors, and after rain or window washing.
If you’re wondering how to naturally repel spiders without strong scents, this alcohol barrier is subtle but effective when kept consistent. Pair it with a homemade spider spray (peppermint or citrus) on frames, leaving the glass to alcohol for crystal-clear results.
Precautions and Safety Measures
Isopropyl alcohol is flammable-spray away from open flames, pilot lights, grills, or hot surfaces and ventilate well. Do not smoke during use. Label the bottle and store tightly closed, out of reach of kids and pets.
Test first on finishes like stained wood, lacquered trim, rubber gaskets, or window tint film. Alcohol can dry rubber and may haze some plastics (acrylic, polycarbonate). Wipe any overspray from delicate materials immediately.
- Use solvent-safe bottles (HDPE or PET). Avoid cheap, brittle plastics.
- Never mix with bleach or products containing sodium hypochlorite.
- Avoid eyes and skin; wear gloves if you have sensitive skin.
- For spider repellent for inside windows, spray lightly and ventilate rooms.
This barrier reduces webbing and entry points, helping you keep spiders from coming inside without heavy fragrances. It’s a practical base layer for the best diy spider spray routine.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Spider Repellent Spray
Over-concentrating Essential Oils
Too much oil doesn’t make the best spider repellent-it leads to streaks, residue, and headaches for you and your pets. Keep total essential oils at 1–2% of the final mix for a homemade spider repellent spray (about 10–12 drops per 8 oz).
- Stronger than 2% can irritate skin and lungs and can damage seals or paint.
- If you smell it across the house, it’s probably too strong.
Inconsistent Application Patterns
Random spraying leaves gaps-spiders find the holes. Build a continuous border around windows and doors, then hit corners and tracks methodically.
- Outline the entire frame.
- Spray corners, top rail, side rails, then bottom sill in order.
- Repeat the same pattern each time for even coverage.
Ignoring Weather Conditions During Application
Wind, rain, and direct sun can ruin an otherwise great diy spider repellent. Wind blows mist away, rain washes it off, and hot glass bakes in streaks.
- Apply outdoors on dry, calm days; aim for early morning or evening shade.
- Reapply after storms and heavy dew, especially for spider repellent for outside windows.
Not Testing on Small Areas First
Patch tests prevent cloudy tints, dulled paint, or dried-out gaskets. Spray a hidden corner of glass and frame, wait 24 hours, then check for haze, tackiness, or color change.
- Test especially on tinted films, stained wood, rubber weatherstripping, and powder-coated aluminum.
Mixing Incompatible Ingredients
Some combos are unsafe or cancel each other out. For a safe, effective homemade repellent for spiders, stick to clear, simple recipes.
- Never mix alcohol with bleach-dangerous gases can form.
- Avoid combining hydrogen peroxide with vinegar; it can form irritating peracids.
- Don’t toss every oil into one bottle; choose 1–3 oils that play well together.
- Skip thick oils in glass sprays; they streak and reduce grip for the alcohol barrier.
When you keep formulas simple and apply them in clean, continuous bands, you get the best homemade spider repellent performance with fewer reapplications. This approach helps with how to keep spiders out of windows, doors, and the spots they use to slip inside.

Frequently Asked Questions
How Do DIY Spider Repellent Sprays Compare to Hiring a Professional Exterminator?
DIY sprays are a cost-effective and natural first line of defense for preventing spiders from entering through windows and doors. They work by creating a barrier that repels spiders without harsh chemicals. An added bonus is that similar DIY techniques can be used to create natural air freshener sprays, refreshing your space while keeping it chemical-free. However, for a severe, established infestation, professional extermination may be necessary to address the root cause and eliminate existing spiders and egg sacs effectively.
Can These Sprays Be Used Safely on Window Screens Without Causing Damage?
Yes, but with caution. Most DIY sprays are safe for metal or fiberglass screens, but always test on a small, inconspicuous area first. Avoid oversaturating the screen, as excess moisture can lead to rust or mold. For best results, spray lightly and allow to air dry completely before closing the window or door.
What Should I Do if I Have an Allergy to One Of the Ingredients in the Recipes?
If you have known allergies, substitute the problematic ingredient with a safe alternative. For example, if allergic to peppermint oil, use a citrus-based oil like lemon or orange instead. Always wear gloves when mixing and applying, and ensure the area is well-ventilated. Discontinue use immediately if any allergic reaction occurs.
Is It Possible to Make a Spider Repellent That Also Kills Spiders, or Are These Only Deterrents?
These DIY sprays are primarily designed as deterrents to keep spiders away, not to kill them. They work by disrupting spiders’ sense of smell and making surfaces unappealing. For killing spiders, you would need a different solution, such as a soap and water spray, which suffocates them on contact, but this is not a preventative measure like repellent sprays.
Your Spider-free Home Starts Today
You now have six proven DIY spider repellent recipes that work better than expensive commercial sprays. Each formula uses common household ingredients that are safe, effective, and budget-friendly. The key to success lies in consistent application and choosing the blend that works best for your specific situation.
Start with the peppermint oil spray if you’re new to DIY repellents, as it delivers quick results and has the longest-lasting effect. Remember to reapply every 1-2 weeks or after rain for maximum protection. Your windows and doors will become natural barriers that spiders simply won’t cross.
Ready to reclaim your home from eight-legged invaders? Choose your preferred recipe and start spraying today. For more practical home solutions and wellness tips that actually work, explore Savvy Dwelling where we share tried-and-tested advice to make your living space healthier and more comfortable.


