It's the season arachnobes are all dreading, when spiders come out of the shadows and into homes in order to find a mate.

Tis the season for the eight legged creatures to reveal themselves more than they usually would and, whilst this is a terrifying prospect for those who fear them, we have a few handy tips which could keep at least a few of them away.

1. Try peppermint spray in entrances

Spiders supposedly hate peppermint. It's worth a shot. Peppermint essential oil is used to keep other pests out of the house, so this is a good place to begin - and your home will smell fresh.

2. Use white vinegar in any crevices

Any nooks and crannies in your house can be filled with white vinegar and water mix. Aside from having countless positive properties, white vinegar repels insects and spiders.

3. Seal any gaps in windows and doors

It might seem obvious but if you take a look around your house, it's surprising just how many spaces they can hide in which haven't been filled in. A simple paste bought from DIY stories can be your friend in this situation.

Those little gaps in the bottom of your bathtub or corner of your conservatory door could be how they get in and where they hide.

4. Get a pet cat

Not the only reason to get a kitten of course, but if you are already thinking about getting a cat, this is a great perk. Your furry friend will be there at your times of need, although it's not always the prettiest site to see a large dead spider at your feet which it proudly gifts to you.

5. Invest in a few citrus and cedar repellents

There is enough research to support that spiders hate all things citric. Whether it's the smell of lemon, lime, grapefruit or orange, they think it's terrible. Using any essence of these flavours could do the trick such as the peel, along with cedar repellents and furniture, which people swear by.

6. Clean your rooms regularly

It might seem like another obvious tip, but how often do you deep clean your rooms? In all the dark corners, in every inch of the cupboards? The cleaner you keep your spaces, the less chance there is somewhere for spiders to hide away and nest.

7. Plant a eucalyptus tree near your window

Eucalyptus is a natural deterrent and will keep away all kinds of bugs away from the home if planted in the right place, including spiders. Besides, it will make the garden smell glorious.

8. Essential oils, tobacco or chestnuts

These are all suggestions which are housewives tips, so whether they work or not are yet to be proven. But if you know your spider fear gets the better of you, it can't harm to try. Keep chestnuts on the window sill and use tobacco at door entrances.