Step-by-Step: How to Use Vicks VapoRub to Repel Spiders
What You’ll Need:
- A small jar of Vicks VapoRub (original formula works best)
- Cotton swabs or gloves (to keep fingers clean)
- A cloth or paper towel (for wiping off excess later)
🔧 Instructions:
- Identify Problem Areas
Look for places spiders like to hang out — window sills, door frames, corners, under furniture, and near light fixtures. - Apply Generously
Using your finger or a cotton swab, rub a small amount of Vicks around these spots. Focus on edges and gaps where spiders may enter. - Reapply Weekly or After Cleaning
Wipe off any dust or dirt buildup first, then reapply fresh Vicks to maintain effectiveness. - Enjoy the Results!
Within days, I noticed fewer spiders — and after a week, they were gone completely.
Other Natural Ways to Keep Spiders Away
If Vicks VapoRub isn’t your thing (or if you want extra protection), here are other natural spider-repellent ideas :
🌿 Essential Oils
- Peppermint oil
- Tea tree oil
- Citronella
Mix with water in a spray bottle and mist around windows and doors.
🍋 White Vinegar
Spray a 50/50 mix of vinegar and water in corners and along baseboards. Spiders hate the smell.
🕯️ Citrus Peels
Leave orange or lemon peels in drawers, cabinets, or corners. The natural oils act as a gentle deterrent.
🪴 Grow Spider-Repelling Plants
Mint, lavender, basil, and chrysanthemums all help keep spiders at bay.
🚫 Eliminate Food Sources
Reduce insect populations by keeping your home clean and sealing food properly. Less bugs = fewer spiders.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Does Vicks VapoRub actually kill spiders?
A: No — it doesn’t kill them, but it repels them due to its strong scent.
Q: Is Vicks safe to use around pets and kids?
A: Yes, but avoid direct contact. If you have curious toddlers or animals, place it in areas they can’t reach easily.
Q: Can I use generic vapor rub instead of Vicks?
A: Yes! Most vapor rub products contain similar active ingredients like menthol and camphor.
Q: Will the smell linger too long?
A: The menthol scent fades over time but remains effective. Reapply once a week or after cleaning.
Q: Do I still need to clean regularly?
A: Absolutely! Vicks helps deter spiders, but good hygiene and regular cleaning are essential for full control.
Final Thoughts
Living in an old house means accepting some quirks — like creaky floors and drafty windows. But spiders crawling onto my lampshade every morning was officially crossing the line.
Enter: Vicks VapoRub — a childhood cold remedy turned unofficial spider bouncer .
It might sound odd, but sometimes the best solutions come from the most unexpected places — like your medicine cabinet.
So next time you spot a web in the corner or feel that familiar twitch of panic, grab your Vicks and give it a try.
You might just find yourself sleeping easier — and spider-free.
