Does spraying peppermint oil keep spiders away?

Author: Laury Maggio  |  Last update: Wednesday, May 20, 2026

Spiders do not like peppermint, and because they “taste” with their legs, it is an easy way to keep them away. Make a mixture of 1-1/2 cups water, 1/2 cup of white vinegar, and 20 drops of peppermint oil. Spray this concoction on windowsills, entryways, and where you find spiders.

How long will peppermint oil keep spiders away?

After heavy rain or exposure to the elements, the peppermint scent may dissipate faster, reducing its deterrent effect. In such cases, it's best to reapply the oil every two to three days to maintain a strong barrier against spiders.

Is it okay to spray peppermint oil around the house?

Peppermint oil can be used as an environmentally friendly solution for pests but may not be a permanent solution. Contact your local pest control professional to identify the pests and provide the best treatment solution to effectively remove the pests from your home or business.

How often should you spray peppermint oil for bugs?

Generally, reapplying the spray every few days is effective for ongoing pest control. In areas with heavy pest activity, daily application might be necessary until you notice a significant reduction in pest numbers.

What oil do spiders hate most?

1. Essential Oils & Natural Repellent Spray
  • Peppermint Oil : Spiders and insects despise the strong scent of peppermint oil.
  • Lavender Oil : Lavender not only repels insects but also has a calming aroma.
  • Eucalyptus Oil : Eucalyptus oil is another powerful insect repellent.
  • Citronella Oil

Mighty Mint - 16oz Spider Repellent Peppermint Oil - Natural Spray for Spiders and Insects

What smell does spiders absolutely hate?

Rub Citrus Peels Along the Windowsills: Spiders absolutely hate the smell of citrus. Rubbing the peels along your window sills, or just leaving a bowl of citrus fruit near the window, is a great deterrent. Use Peppermint Essential Oil: The strong smell of peppermint can keep spiders away.

Is peppermint oil toxic to dogs?

Peppermint essential oils or extracts—Exposure to small amounts of diluted peppermint oil may not be a problem for healthy dogs. But it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, skin irritation, respiratory problems, and ulcers in the mouth in the undiluted form or in high amounts.

Where to put peppermint oil for spiders?

Spiders do not like peppermint, and because they “taste” with their legs, it is an easy way to keep them away. Make a mixture of 1-1/2 cups water, 1/2 cup of white vinegar, and 20 drops of peppermint oil. Spray this concoction on windowsills, entryways, and where you find spiders.

Can you spray too much peppermint oil?

If small amounts are swallowed, inhaled, or applied to skin or eyes, it can cause irritation and burning. Large doses can cause serious toxicity due to the menthol.

What's the best spider repellent?

Spiders don't tolerate the smell of peppermint and will avoid every area where it is applied. You can also use eucalyptus oil to the same effect. Vinegar: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and spray it directly onto any spiders you see.

What not to mix with peppermint oil?

Possible Interactions
  • Famotidine (Pepcid)
  • Cimetidine (Tagamet)
  • Ranitidine (Zantac)
  • Esomeprazole (Nexium)
  • Lansoprazole (Prevacid)
  • Omeprazole (Prilosec)

What do mice do when they smell peppermint oil?

The smell of peppermint oil disturbs mice and often keeps them away. Mice rely heavily on their keen sense of smell, and the strong scent of peppermint can be irritating and overwhelming to them.

How do I keep spiders away permanently?

6 Natural Ways to Get Rid of Spiders
  1. Add spider-repellent plants. Lavender, mint, eucalyptus, and citronella are all plants with strong smells that spiders don't like. ...
  2. Remove the hiding places. ...
  3. Remove the webs. ...
  4. Turn off outdoor lights. ...
  5. Use a natural repellent spray. ...
  6. Use diatomaceous earth.

Is peppermint oil or vinegar better for spiders?

Repelling spiders with vinegar is much like repelling them with peppermint oil, in that you fill a spray bottle with vinegar and water, and spray all the cracks and crevices around your home. If you add Peppermint oil to the vinegar, it will be even more powerful! It'll smell good to you, but awful to the spiders.

Do spiders like the light?

Spiders aren't directly attracted to light. Unlike moths and other night-flying insects, spiders are not drawn to luminous objects. However, they are smart predators and understand that other insects are attracted to light. Therefore, they often build their webs near light sources in order to capture their prey.

Where do I spray peppermint oil in my house?

Combine water and peppermint oil in a spray bottle. Shake bottle before use and spray the solution around entry spots such as windowsills and door frames, or places where insects may hide. The strong odor acts as a repellent.

Is smelling peppermint oil bad for you?

Large doses of menthol, a key ingredient in peppermint oil, can be poisonous. This can lead to serious side effects, including seizures, slow heartbeat, and irregular breathing.

What hates peppermint oil?

Peppermint oil is effective at deterring ants from entering your home. It disrupts their scent trails and makes them less likely to venture into treated areas. Spiders are averse to the strong scent of peppermint oil. Using it in areas where spiders are likely to enter can help keep them away.

How often do you have to spray peppermint oil to keep spiders away?

Open the windows in the room to allow fresh air to enter as you start to spray. Shake the solution well and spray around the house, focussing heavily on the corners, doors and windows. Repeat this process once a week. If spiders are still appearing, shorten the spray period to every few days.

What do spiders hate most?

In addition to peppermint, which was mentioned earlier, you can try using essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, or citrus, as spiders tend to dislike these scents. You can create a homemade spider-repellent spray by mixing a few drops of these essential oils with water and applying it to spider-prone areas.

What smells attract spiders?

They mostly use sight and vibrations to hunt and navigate. However, they are attracted to environments where their prey may be present. These insects are often attracted to sweet or pungent odors, so areas with strong food or garbage scents could indirectly attract spiders.

Is peppermint oil bad for cats?

Peppermint oil, listed in some products as menthol, is toxic to cats when ingested or inhaled. Of note, some formulations (like wintergreen oil) may contain aspirin derivatives, making them even more dangerous for cats.

Is peppermint oil flammable after it dries?

Yes, peppermint oil is a flammable substance and can catch fire if exposed to an ignition source, such as a spark or flame.

Is vinegar bad for dogs?

Dogs can have distilled white vinegar or apple cider vinegar (ACV) as long as you use it in moderation. Serve your dog one tablespoon of diluted vinegar in their water bowl or let it soak into their kibble. Keep in mind there is always the possibility your specific dog might have an allergy or intolerance to vinegar.

Previous article
Why are my double-pane windows still cold?
Next article
Are wall-hung vanities a good idea?