Do Walnut Shells Get Rid Of Spiders

Walnut shells can help get rid of spiders, but they aren’t a magic bullet that will wipe out an entire infestation overnight.
 
If you’ve been asking yourself whether walnut shells get rid of spiders, the short answer is yes, they can play a role in repelling and deterring these eight-legged visitors.
 
The key is understanding how walnut shells work, where to place them, and what their limitations are.
 
In this post, we’ll explore whether walnut shells get rid of spiders, why they work, and how to use them effectively.
 
Let’s dig in.
 

Do Walnut Shells Get Rid of Spiders?

Walnut shells do get rid of spiders to some extent, mainly because of a natural compound they contain called juglone.
 
Juglone is a chemical that walnut trees produce, and it’s known for being toxic to certain plants and insects.
 
Spiders aren’t big fans of juglone either, and the rough texture and strong scent of walnut shells also make them an unpleasant surface for spiders to walk across.
 
So when you scatter walnut shells around your home, you’re basically creating a barrier that spiders would rather avoid.
 
That said, walnut shells won’t kill spiders on contact the way some chemical sprays do.
 
Instead, they act more like a deterrent, encouraging spiders to find another route or a different place to set up shop.
 

1. Juglone Acts as a Natural Repellent

The main reason walnut shells get rid of spiders is the juglone content.
 
Juglone is a naturally occurring compound found in all parts of the black walnut tree, including the hulls and shells.
 
When spiders come into contact with juglone, it can irritate them and encourage them to move along.
 
It’s not an instant kill, but it does make the area less appealing for spiders looking for a cozy spot.
 

2. The Texture Is Unpleasant for Spiders

Walnut shells have a rough, jagged texture that spiders don’t enjoy walking on.
 
Spiders rely on sensitive hairs on their legs to sense vibrations and navigate their environment.
 
Crushed walnut shells disrupt that sensory experience, making it harder for spiders to move around comfortably.
 
So even if the juglone doesn’t bother them, the physical texture often does the trick.
 

3. The Scent Drives Spiders Away

Walnut shells have a distinct, earthy scent that intensifies when they’re crushed or broken down.
 
Spiders are highly sensitive to smells, and many of them find the scent of walnut shells off-putting.
 
This scent-based deterrent is one of the reasons walnut shells get rid of spiders without requiring any harsh chemicals.
 

How to Use Walnut Shells to Get Rid of Spiders

If you want to use walnut shells to get rid of spiders, here are a few practical ways to put them to work.
 

1. Scatter Crushed Shells Along Entry Points

The best place to start is around doors, windows, and any cracks where spiders might sneak in.
 
Sprinkle a generous layer of crushed walnut shells along these entry points.
 
This creates a barrier that spiders are reluctant to cross.
 

2. Place Shells in Corners and Basements

Spiders love dark, quiet corners, especially in basements, garages, and closets.
 
Placing small dishes or pouches of crushed walnut shells in these areas can help keep spiders from settling in.
 
Refresh the shells every few weeks to maintain their potency.
 

3. Combine With Other Natural Deterrents

Walnut shells work even better when combined with other natural spider repellents like peppermint oil, vinegar, or diatomaceous earth.
 
You can also use walnut shells alongside cedar chips or citrus peels for a more robust defense.
 

Limitations of Using Walnut Shells for Spiders

While walnut shells get rid of spiders in many cases, they aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution.
 

1. They Don’t Kill Spiders Outright

Walnut shells repel spiders rather than kill them.
 
If you’re dealing with a heavy infestation, you may need to combine walnut shells with other methods like sealing cracks or using traps.
 

2. Effectiveness Varies by Spider Species

Some spiders are more sensitive to juglone and walnut shell texture than others.
 
Common house spiders tend to avoid walnut shells, but certain species may be less bothered.
 

3. They Require Regular Replacement

Walnut shells lose their potency over time as the juglone breaks down and the scent fades.
 
You’ll need to replace them every few weeks to keep them working effectively.
 

So, Do Walnut Shells Get Rid of Spiders?

Walnut shells do get rid of spiders to a degree, thanks to the natural juglone content, rough texture, and strong scent that spiders find unpleasant.
 
They’re a safe, eco-friendly option for repelling spiders without harsh chemicals, and they’re easy to use around entry points and dark corners.
 
Just remember that walnut shells work best as part of a broader strategy, not as a standalone fix for a serious spider problem.
 
So if you’ve been wondering whether walnut shells get rid of spiders, the answer is yes, they can help, and they’re definitely worth a try.