Spiders are a common household pest, and while they’re often harmless (and even beneficial, since they eat other insects), many people would prefer that they weren’t around.
It’s understandable: No one wants to stumble into a spiderweb or find a spider lurking in the corner of the room. And while spiders can help keep other bug populations in check, an overabundance of spiders, or the presence of venomous species, can be a real problem.
So, how do you get rid of spiders in the house? This article provides practical tips for getting rid of spiders and preventing future infestations. We’ll cover natural methods, preventative measures, and when it’s time to call in the pros.
Why do spiders come inside?
Spiders come inside looking for food and a comfortable place to live. They’re usually attracted to areas with a lot of insect activity – meaning, if you have spiders, you probably have other bugs, too.
Spiders can squeeze into your house through the tiniest cracks in the walls, windows, and foundation. They also come in through open doors and windows.
Once they’re inside, cluttered areas give spiders (and their prey) a place to hide. Piles of leaves and dead plants around the outside of your house also attract them.
Know your enemy
Before you declare war on the spiders in your home, it’s a good idea to figure out what kind of spiders they are. Knowing the species dictates your next steps.
Most house spiders aren’t dangerous, but some spiders have venom that can cause pain or other reactions. It’s important to know the difference.
How do you know if you have a spider problem? Here are some signs:
- You see spiders frequently.
- You notice a lot of spiderwebs.
Natural and Safe Spider Repellents
If you want to discourage spiders from moving into your home, there are several natural and safe repellents you can try.
Essential Oils
Spiders reportedly hate the strong scents of peppermint, eucalyptus, and tea tree oil. To use these as a spider repellent, mix a few drops with water in a spray bottle and apply the solution to places where spiders might be getting in, such as windowsills, door frames, and cracks in the foundation.
Before spraying, test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area to make sure the oil doesn’t stain the surface. Keep in mind that you’ll need to reapply the spray regularly, as the scent will fade over time.
Vinegar
Vinegar is a natural acid that seems to send spiders packing. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and spray it around windows, doors, and other entry points.
Vinegar is a great non-toxic alternative to chemical sprays, as it’s safe for humans and pets. It’s also an affordable and readily available option.
Other Natural Repellents
Here are some other natural materials that may deter spiders:
- Cedarwood: Spiders don’t seem to like the smell of cedar, so you can place cedarwood chips or blocks in closets and other areas where spiders might be lurking.
- Mint: Planting mint around the house can deter spiders. You can also dry mint leaves and place them in sachets to hang in closets and other areas.
Home maintenance for spider prevention
As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Here are some ways to keep spiders from moving into your home in the first place.
Sealing cracks and gaps
Walk around the outside of your house and look for places spiders (and other pests) could use as entry points. Seal up any cracks or gaps you find around windows, doors, and pipes with caulk or weather stripping.
It’s a good idea to check these seals and caulking from time to time and repair them as needed.
Removing spider webs
Get rid of spider webs whenever you see them, both inside and outside your home. This will discourage spiders from settling in.
Use your vacuum cleaner or a broom to sweep away any webs you see, and be sure to put the webs in a sealed bag before you toss them in the outside trash can.
Maintaining a clean, clutter-free environment
Spiders love clutter. To keep them away, vacuum and dust regularly to remove food sources and hiding places. Store things in sealed containers so spiders can’t nest in them.
Clear away leaves, wood, and other debris from your garden and around the perimeter of your house. Trim bushes and shrubs so they don’t touch the side of the house.
How to get rid of spiders
If you don’t like the idea of killing spiders, here are a few ways to remove them from your home:
Use a spider catcher
Spider catchers are tools designed to trap spiders safely. They allow you to catch and release spiders without hurting them.
Vacuum them up
A vacuum cleaner works well for removing spiders and their webs. Just make sure you empty the vacuum bag or canister right away, so the spiders don’t crawl back out.
Avoid touching them
It’s best not to touch spiders, especially if you don’t know what kind they are. Wear gloves if you need to handle spiders or their webs, just in case.
When should you call a pest control expert?
Sometimes, a spider problem is too big to handle on your own. Here’s when you should consider calling in the pros:
- You have a major infestation. If you’re seeing spiders constantly, or if there are just too many to count, you might have a serious problem.
- You can’t get the spiders under control. If you’ve tried everything and they keep coming back, it’s time for expert help.
- You think you have venomous spiders. Don’t risk it! Call a pest control company immediately. They know how to safely remove dangerous spiders.
Pest control professionals can find out where the spiders are coming from and use special treatments to get rid of them. They can also give you advice on how to keep spiders away in the future.
Putting It All Together
When it comes to keeping spiders out of your home, a multi-pronged approach is your best bet. Combining preventative measures with natural repellents and other removal techniques will give you the best results.
To recap, be sure to keep your home clean and tidy, seal up any cracks or openings where spiders could enter, and consider using natural repellents like peppermint oil or vinegar. Regularly removing webs will also discourage spiders from sticking around.
Finally, don’t hesitate to call in a professional if you have a serious infestation or if you’re uncomfortable dealing with spiders yourself.
By following these tips, you can create a spider-free and comfortable home, and enjoy your living space without unwanted eight-legged guests!