Overview

• Households are reporting more spiders indoors as the annual autumn peak runs through September into October, with activity driven by males searching for mates and warmer spots.
• A new Express guide lists 22 spiders commonly found in UK homes, citing size claims up to about 14 cm for Cardinal spiders and legspans near 10 cm for male house spiders.
• Experts stress risk remains low, noting Britain has more than 650 spider species but only around 12 are considered capable of causing harm through bites.
• Suggested steps to cut down on visitors include decluttering, regular vacuuming, sealing gaps around doors and windows, removing nearby leaf litter and wood piles, and using peppermint, citrus or vinegar sprays.
• Additional tips highlighted by coverage include drawing chalk lines as a deterrent and skipping unproven remedies such as conkers.