After cleaning hundreds of balconies across Toronto and the GTA, we know a thing or two about pesky and stubborn outdoor critters! Spiders like to hide in all sorts of places and wasps and hornets take advantage of any bit of grime or buildup to start building nests on otherwise smooth outdoor surfaces.
Here are some tips on how to keep your balcony free of unwanted pests like spiders, especially during the hot, dusty, and dirty Toronto summer:
General Maintenance
- Cleanliness is key: Regularly sweep and mop your balcony to remove food crumbs, dust, and other debris that attract pests. Pay particular attention to corners and crevices where spiders like to hide.
- Declutter: Remove any unnecessary items from your balcony that can provide hiding places for pests. This includes stacks of newspapers, magazines, boxes, and old furniture.
- Seal entry points: Check for any cracks or gaps in the walls, windows, and doors leading to your balcony and seal them up to prevent pests from entering.
Specific Spider Deterrents
- Vinegar solution: Mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle and spray it around the edges of your balcony and in areas where you’ve seen spiders. The strong smell of vinegar repels spiders.
- Citrus peels: Place orange or lemon peels around your balcony. Spiders dislike the strong citrus scent.
- Peppermint oil: Soak cotton balls in peppermint oil and place them in strategic locations on your balcony. Spiders are repelled by the strong scent of peppermint.
- Diatomaceous earth: Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the base of your balcony doors and windows. It’s a natural powder that dehydrates and kills insects, including spiders.
Additional Tips
- Keep plants healthy: Spider mites can infest houseplants. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of infestation and treat them accordingly.
- Limit outdoor lighting: Turn off outdoor lights at night as they attract insects, which in turn attract spiders.
- Professional pest control: If you have a severe spider infestation, consider contacting a professional pest control service.
Remember:
- Be patient and consistent. It may take some time to completely eliminate spiders from your balcony.
- Always follow the safety instructions when using any chemicals or pesticides.