The daddy long legs is a harmless insect (Image: Getty)
Daddy long legs are among the UK’s most common creepy crawlies, and they’re about to get a bit more common as we enter their favourite season.
These long-legged insects are making their way indoors across homes in the UK as they search for somewhere warm. While they pose no threat to humans, if you’re not a fan of them you can try this simple method to keep them away.
The spider-like insects are attracted to light, which explains why they often come into brightly lit houses during the evenings. The male daddy long legs have a square-ended body, while females have a pointed body with a tail-like end.
It’s important to keep in mind that if you don’t keep them out of your home they can multiply rapidly, so keeping the numbers from coming in initially is best.
Daddy long legs, also known as crane flies, tend to prefer “dark and damp” environments according to experts at D-Termination Pest Control.
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Peppermint oil is a great way to repel insects (Image: Getty)
As reported in The Sun, they warned: “If left unchecked, insect eggs from these spiders can multiply rapidly and establish a large population within your living space. If they manage to reach your pantry or kitchen cabinets where food items are stored, they might contaminate them with their excrement or debris from their webs.”
The experts suggest using peppermint oil to fend off the unwanted arachnids, which you can pick up from Amazon for just £2.99 or get it delivered straight to your home.
They said: “Peppermint oil is particularly effective at repelling spiders due to its strong odour that they find displeasing. Mix 10 to 15 drops of peppermint oil with water in a spray bottle. Generously spritz it in areas where you’ve seen spiders or suspect their presence.”
It’s also advised to place the oil at entry points and corners throughout your house. Other oils you can use include tea tree, lavender, and citrus oils, which are said to be equally effective.