Peppermint Oil for Spiders and Ants: Does It Really Work as a Repellent?

Looking for a natural way to get rid of spiders and ants in your home? If you’ve heard people rave about peppermint oil, you might be wondering: Does peppermint oil really work as a repellent for spiders and ants?

The answer is: yes, it can—when used correctly.
Peppermint essential oil is more than just a refreshing scent. Its strong aroma and active compounds have been shown to repel common household pests, especially spiders and ants, making it a popular and non-toxic alternative to chemical sprays.

In this blog, you'll learn:

• How peppermint oil affects spiders and ants

• Why it works as a repellent

• How to use it effectively

• DIY recipes and usage tips

• Common mistakes to avoid

🧠 Why Peppermint Oil Works on Spiders and Ants

🔍 Spiders

Spiders navigate their world through vibrations and scent trails. The powerful smell of peppermint oil overwhelms their sensory receptors, making your home an unattractive environment for them.

🐜 Ants

Ants rely heavily on pheromone trails to communicate and navigate. Peppermint oil disrupts these trails, confusing ants and repelling colonies from entry points and food sources.

Key compounds like menthol and menthone in peppermint oil also act as natural insect deterrents and can irritate insects' respiratory systems.

💡 Fun Fact: The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) lists peppermint oil as a minimum-risk pesticide when used correctly.

🌿 Benefits of Using Peppermint Oil as a Natural Repellent

• Non-toxic for humans and pets (when diluted properly)

• Pleasant aroma (no chemical smell)

• Multipurpose—also repels mosquitoes, flies, and roaches

• Budget-friendly and long-lasting

• Can be used indoors and outdoors

🧪 How to Use Peppermint Oil for Spiders and Ants

✅ 1. Peppermint Oil Spray (Most Effective)

DIY Recipe:

• 10–15 drops of 100% pure peppermint essential oil

• 1 cup water

• 1 tablespoon white vinegar (optional – enhances repellent effect)

• 1 teaspoon witch hazel or rubbing alcohol (helps disperse oil)

• Spray bottle (dark glass preferred)

How to Use:

• Shake well before each use

• Spray around doorways, windows, baseboards, cracks, and corners

• Reapply every 2–3 days or after cleaning

✅ 2. Cotton Ball Method

• Soak cotton balls in 2–3 drops of peppermint oil

• Place in cupboards, closets, under sinks, or dark corners

• Replace every 5–7 days

✅ 3. Diffuse Peppermint Oil

• Add 6–8 drops of peppermint oil to your diffuser

• Use in problem areas like kitchens or basements

• Not as direct as sprays, but helps maintain a pest-free atmosphere

✅ 4. Peppermint Oil in Cleaning Routine

• Add 5–10 drops to your all-purpose cleaner

• Wipe down surfaces, floors, and window sills to leave behind a scent spiders and ants hate

❗ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using synthetic or diluted peppermint oil: Always choose 100% pure, therapeutic-grade oil

• Not reapplying regularly: Essential oils evaporate; reapply every few days for consistent results

• Not sealing entry points: Use peppermint oil in combination with caulking gaps or cracks

• Overusing near pets (especially cats): While diluted peppermint oil is generally safe, some pets are sensitive. Use with caution.

⚠️ Is Peppermint Oil Safe for Pets and Kids?

• Diluted peppermint oil is generally safe for use around older children and dogs

• Use caution around cats and infants, as their systems are more sensitive

• Always ventilate rooms and avoid direct skin contact or ingestion

🧼 Bonus: Ant-Repelling Cleaning Spray Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup white vinegar

• 1 cup water

• 15 drops peppermint oil

• 10 drops tea tree or lemon oil (optional)

Use: Spray on countertops, along windowsills, and anywhere ants are seen. Not only does it clean—it repels ants instantly.

🕷️ Realistic Expectations: Does Peppermint Oil Eliminate Pests?

Peppermint oil is a repellent, not a pesticide. That means:

• It keeps spiders and ants away, but doesn’t kill them

• It’s most effective as part of a preventative and maintenance routine

• For infestations, it’s best used in combination with sealing, traps, or professional help

✅ Final Verdict: Does Peppermint Oil Really Work Against Spiders and Ants?

Yes—when used consistently and correctly, peppermint essential oil is a safe, effective, and natural way to repel spiders and ants from your home.

It’s especially helpful if you:

• Want to avoid chemicals

• Have pets or children

• Prefer a fresh, clean-smelling environment

• Want to repel multiple insects naturally

🌿 One oil. Many uses. Peppermint isn’t just for freshness—it’s your home’s natural shield.

🧪 Pro Tip:

Pair peppermint oil with other natural deterrents like cinnamon, citrus, or cedarwood for enhanced pest control.