Spiders are a common nuisance in many homes this autumn, appearing on ceiling corners and windowsills. While many homeowners will quickly reach for chemical sprays, a social media home hack expert revealed a natural solution that costs just 65p. By mixing this single ingredient with water, you can create a simple spray that spiders hate.

Home hack guru Chantel Mila (@mama_mila_au) took to Instagram to reveal her cheap yet effective trick. Beginning her video, she said: "Who else is terrified of spiders? I once stopped on the side of the road for nearly an hour after I saw one in my car. Here are five natural tips to keep them away from your home.

"I recently learnt that spiders hate salt. So mix salt and water to create an all-natural spider spray."

According to House Digest, table salt can help deter spiders by damaging their exoskeleton, causing dehydration and eventually leading to their death. While sprinkling dry salt around your home may sound like a simple solution, it won't actually stop spiders, as most will walk over it.

Salt becomes effective only when dissolved in water, as the liquid carries the salt directly onto the spider's body or into areas they frequent. "In simple terms, the water acts as the carrier, delivering salt where it can do the damage and keep spiders from invading your home," said the expert.

"The idea of using something as simple as salt to handle spiders highlights a larger shift toward low-cost, low-impact fixes. It shows how everyday household items can double as problem-solvers when used correctly."

The expert went on to warn that salt spray can leave a light residue once it dries, so be prepared to wipe surfaces afterwards. It's a small inconvenience for an inexpensive, chemical-free way to deter spiders.

Chantel also recommends rubbing "lemons around your drains to deter spiders and other bugs that can enter through them." She also claims that adding citrus oil or citrus peels to your mop water can help repel crawling insects.

Pest UK states that spiders hate strong smells. Another household item that works just as well is vinegar. Rub or spray around window sills and doors to help prevent spiders from entering.