In autumn, garden bugs sometimes seek shelter inside our homes, while spiders become more visible. A few simple steps can limit intrusions without multiplying chemical treatments.
Autumn Visitors Usually Harmless
As temperatures cool, some true bugs look for a shelter to over-winter. This includes the Nebulous and Devil bugs. They may cluster around windows, doors, or in the corners of the living space.
These bugs do not feed on human blood. Their presence is mainly a domestic nuisance, especially when they are numerous or emit their defensive odor.
Be careful not to confuse them with bed bugs. The latter bite sleepers and require specific handling. If you suspect an infestation, learn when to call a professional for bed bug control.
Spiders follow a different pattern. Many already live inside buildings and become more visible when males are seeking a mate. This is why you see more spiders in the fall. They are arachnids, not insects.
Isolate and Seal: The First Line of Defense
To get in, bugs take advantage of gaps around openings. Inspect window frames and door jambs. Repair damaged seals and seal cracks with an appropriate product.
Also check the condition of the screens. Never block air intakes or vent grilles: the home must stay properly ventilated.
Outside, clear thresholds and avoid piling wood against openings. It’s unnecessary, however, to remove all piles of leaves and branches. Kept away from the house, they provide refuges for biodiversity during the winter.
Vinegar, garlic, or essential oil recipes do not guarantee protection. Favor physical barriers rather than a string of homemade sprays.
What to Do If They Invade
If a few bugs get in despite your precautions, avoid crushing them: their defensive secretion can leave a lasting odor. To move them, use a container and a cardboard sheet, without grabbing or squeezing.
In the presence of many individuals, a vacuum can aid in gathering them. It may, however, preserve their odor. Empty the canister outside immediately after use or remove the bag, then clean the appliance according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
For an spider, prefer a glass and a cardboard sheet to the vacuum. Gently move it to a suitable, sheltered area. These tiny residents notably trap flies and mosquitoes: their presence can actually be helpful.
Why you shouldn’t kill spiders in your home.
