Do Walnuts Really Keep Spiders Away

Walnuts do not really keep spiders away.
 
While the idea that walnuts can repel spiders has made its rounds online, there’s no solid scientific evidence that walnuts keep spiders away effectively.
 
The claim usually involves scattering walnut halves, walnut shells, or even walnut leaves around corners, basements, and windowsills to deter spiders.
 
Some people swear by it, but the reality is that walnuts do not really keep spiders away in any reliable or proven manner.
 
In this post, we’ll look at where the walnut spider repellent idea comes from, what science says about whether walnuts keep spiders away, and what actually works if you want to keep spiders out of your home.
 
Let’s dig in.
 

Why People Think Walnuts Keep Spiders Away

The belief that walnuts keep spiders away probably started with folk remedies and old wives’ tales passed down through generations.
 
Here are the main reasons this myth has stuck around:
 

1. The Smell of Walnuts

Walnuts have a distinct, earthy scent, especially when they’re fresh or when the shells are cracked.
 
Some people believe that this strong smell overwhelms a spider’s senses and drives them away.
 
But spiders don’t “smell” the way humans do, and there’s no evidence that the odor of walnuts keeps spiders away.
 

2. Natural Pest Control Folklore

Walnuts have a long history in folk medicine and natural pest control.
 
People have used walnut leaves, husks, and shells for everything from treating skin conditions to dyeing fabric.
 
Because walnuts contain juglone, a compound that can be toxic to some plants and insects, folks assumed it might also work against spiders.
 
But juglone doesn’t repel spiders, and the amount in a few walnuts around your house is far too low to matter.
 

3. Confusion With Other Repellents

Some natural ingredients like citrus peels, peppermint oil, and vinegar do have some spider-repelling properties.
 
Walnuts often get lumped into the same category simply because they’re a common household item.
 
But walnuts do not really keep spiders away, and relying on them will likely leave you sharing your space with eight-legged guests.
 

What Science Says About Walnuts and Spiders

If you’re wondering whether walnuts keep spiders away, the short answer is no.
 
Here’s what research and pest control experts actually say:
 

1. No Scientific Evidence

There are no scientific studies that show walnuts repel spiders.
 
Entomologists and pest control professionals consistently say that walnuts do not really keep spiders away.
 
Spiders are driven by food, shelter, and moisture, not by the presence of walnuts.
 

2. Spiders Are Not Deterred by Walnut Odor

Spiders rely on vibrations and touch more than smell to navigate their world.
 
Even if walnuts had a strong odor, spiders don’t process scent the way insects like ants or mosquitoes do.
 
So the idea that walnuts keep spiders away because of their smell simply doesn’t hold up.
 

3. Walnuts May Attract Other Pests

Leaving walnuts around your home can actually attract pantry pests like beetles, moths, and rodents.
 
That means instead of solving your spider problem, you might create a new one.
 
And since spiders feed on other insects, more pests could mean more spiders, not fewer.
 

What Actually Keeps Spiders Away

Since walnuts do not really keep spiders away, what does work?
 
Here are proven strategies to keep spiders out of your home:
 

1. Seal Cracks and Gaps

Spiders slip through tiny openings around windows, doors, and foundations.
 
Caulk cracks, add weather stripping, and repair torn screens to block their entry points.
 
This is one of the most effective ways to keep spiders away long-term.
 

2. Reduce Clutter and Moisture

Spiders love quiet, dark, cluttered spaces like basements, garages, and closets.
 
Decluttering and reducing moisture with dehumidifiers makes these areas less inviting.
 
Fewer hiding spots means fewer spiders setting up webs.
 

3. Use Natural Repellents That Work

If you want a natural option, certain essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, and citrus can help deter spiders.
 
Spray diluted oils around entry points and corners, but reapply often since the effect fades.
 
Unlike walnuts, these repellents have at least some evidence behind them.
 

4. Keep Your Home Clean and Dry

Regular cleaning removes the insects spiders feed on, which makes your home less attractive.
 
Vacuum webs, dust corners, and fix leaky pipes to cut off their water supply.
 
A clean, dry home is far more effective than scattering walnuts around.
 

5. Call a Pest Control Professional

If spiders are a persistent problem, a pest control expert can identify entry points and treat infestations safely.
 
This is especially useful for venomous species or large populations.
 
It’s a reliable solution when home remedies like walnuts fail.
 

So, Do Walnuts Really Keep Spiders Away?

Walnuts do not really keep spiders away.
 
There’s no scientific backing for the idea, and relying on walnuts could leave you with both spiders and pantry pests.
 
Instead, focus on sealing your home, reducing clutter and moisture, and using proven repellents or professional help.
 
So the next time someone tells you that walnuts keep spiders away, you’ll know the truth.