As the chill of autumn begins to settle across Scotland, a new kind of seasonal warning is making the rounds—one that has nothing to do with raincoats or flu jabs. Instead, it’s the annual arrival of spider season, and this year, experts are urging Scottish households to take special precautions over the next four weeks, beginning the evening of August 22, 2025. According to multiple sources including the Daily Record and Manchester Evening, the combination of dropping temperatures and unsettled weather is driving house spiders—and their increasingly common cousins, the noble false widow spider—indoors in search of warmth.
Alan Reid, a double-glazed windows expert at Art Windows and Doors, has issued a stark warning: “Male house spiders and false widows are on the move, and homes with open windows are at risk of infestation. Now is the time to seal gaps and shut windows before spider season peaks.” His advice is echoed by pest control experts and lifestyle influencers alike, all of whom agree that the next month represents the peak danger period for spider invasions.
Why now? Well, as the nights draw in and the mercury dips, spiders—especially males—become more active, seeking mates and warmer indoor environments. This annual migration isn’t just a minor nuisance; for some, it’s a genuine source of anxiety. While the occasional orange leaf signals autumn’s approach, it’s the sight of eight-legged visitors scuttling across the living room floor that really has folks reaching for their slippers—or, ideally, a glass and a sheet of paper.
And it’s not just the standard house spider making an appearance. The noble false widow spider (Steatoda nobilis), a species once rare in the UK, is now becoming a regular fixture in homes across Scotland and the wider UK. According to the Bristol Post, this species is putting areas on high alert during its mating season. While bites from the noble false widow are rare, they’re not entirely harmless. The symptoms, experts say, can mimic those of a bee or wasp sting—think pain, swelling, and in some cases, a mild fever. But there’s good news: these spiders aren’t aggressive and generally only bite if they feel threatened.
So, what’s a homeowner to do? Experts recommend a multi-pronged approach to spider-proofing your home. First and foremost, closing windows from 7pm onwards is essential. Spiders tend to move indoors at dusk, making evening window management your first line of defense. “Closing windows from 7pm onwards provides the most effective defence against spider invasions,” Reid emphasizes. Next up: seal all gaps and cracks around doors, windows, and vents using weatherstripping or sealant. These tiny openings are prime entry points for spiders looking for a cozy spot to spend the night.
Regular cleaning is another key tactic. Dusting and vacuuming not only remove potential hiding spots but also eliminate food sources that can attract spiders. According to Pest UK, the average home already hosts around 40 spiders, with older houses sometimes harboring hundreds. That’s enough to make anyone think twice about leaving a window ajar!
For those looking for natural solutions, the advice is refreshingly simple. Peppermint, tea tree, or lavender essential oils mixed with water can be sprayed around likely entry points to deter spiders. These natural repellents are safe, easy to use, and—bonus—leave your home smelling fresh. Lifestyle influencer Chantel Mila, who boasts more than 1.6 million followers on TikTok, swears by a two-ingredient spray made from white vinegar and essential oil. In a recent video, she explained, “This mix is my go-to to leave your room bug-free and smelling amazing.” Mila recommends applying the solution to mattresses, bedheads, and bedside tables to keep both spiders and dust mites at bay.
If you do spot a noble false widow or any other unwelcome arachnid guest, the experts urge calm. These spiders aren’t looking for a fight. The recommended method for removal is the classic “glass and paper” trick—trap the spider under a glass, slide a piece of paper underneath, and release it outside. In the rare event of a bite, most cases can be managed at home by washing the area, applying a cold compress, and seeking medical advice if symptoms worsen.
But why are spiders so drawn to our homes at this time of year? It’s all about survival. The warmth and shelter provided by our houses are irresistible to spiders looking to escape the cold. Male spiders, in particular, are on the move as they search for mates during the autumn months. This migratory behavior peaks now, making the next four weeks especially critical for anyone keen to avoid an infestation.
Interestingly, managing indoor lighting can also play a role in spider prevention. Spiders, much like moths, are attracted to light sources during their evening movements. Keeping lights dim or using curtains in the evening can help reduce the number of spiders drawn towards your windows and doors.
For many, the idea of sharing their home with dozens—or even hundreds—of spiders is unsettling. Yet, as experts point out, most spiders are harmless and play a valuable role in controlling other household pests. Still, with the noble false widow spider’s rise in numbers and the annual influx of house spiders, it’s understandable that homeowners are eager to keep their living spaces as spider-free as possible.
The advice from professionals and influencers alike is clear: act now, before spider season reaches its peak. Close those windows, seal up gaps, keep your home clean, and consider natural repellents to keep the eight-legged invaders at bay. As Alan Reid succinctly put it, “Now is the time to seal gaps and shut windows before spider season peaks.”
As autumn deepens and Scottish nights grow longer, a little vigilance and a few simple precautions can make all the difference in keeping your home comfortable—and spider-free—until the season passes.
