Households in the UK urged to turn off lights and keep doors shut at night
Households in the UK are being urged to turn off their lights and shut their doors at night due to this one specific reason
Households across the UK are being warned to switch off their lights and keep their windows firmly shut this month, as there is a sudden surge in a certain insect which is driving people crazy. Daddy long legs, also known as crane flies, are beginning to appear in larger numbers as temperatures begin to drop and the lanky, long-legged insects search for warmth indoors.
Experts explain that their peak season typically falls in late summer to early autumn, making this the prime time for them to slowly make their way into our homes.
Even something as simple as opening your door for a few minutes in the evening can invite a flurry of daddy long legs inside, leaving homeowners scrambling to get them back out again, the Express reports.
While harmless, their clumsy flying and tendency to gather around lamps and ceilings can make them a real nuisance.
Now Wayfair UK, the online home store, has revealed its top tips for keeping daddy long legs out of your garden and away from your home this autumn.
The retailer says closing doors and dimming or turning off lights are the two most effective ways to reduce the number of daddy long legs inside your home.
They state: "One of the simplest ways to keep daddy long legs out of your home is by making it harder for them to get in. As the weather cools, they’re drawn to warm, bright spaces, making our homes the perfect spot for them."
"To reduce the chances of them making an unexpected stay, try limiting their entry points. Keeping windows and doors closed, especially at night, not only helps keep your home cosy but also stops those daddy long legs from sneaking in!"
The retailer continued: "Daddy long legs are drawn to light, which is why they often head for our homes. To keep them at bay, try reducing the amount of light inside. Dimming your lights, using smaller lamps instead of the main light, or keeping curtains and blinds closed can help stop them from being attracted to your home.”
Other tips include creating a natural repellent using essential oils, which will keep unwanted visitors at bay without using harsh chemicals.
"Essential oils are a fantastic way to keep insects like daddy long legs away, thanks to their strong, natural scents! Peppermint, lavender, and tea tree oils make excellent and affordable repellents to help keep your home daddy long legs-free," Wayfair state.
They advise: "To make your own natural spray, just add 10-20 drops of any of these oils to a spray bottle filled with water. Then, spray it around your home, focusing on doors, windows, dark corners, and areas where you've spotted daddy long legs before - it's an easy, budget-friendly solution!”
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