How to get rid of spiders: Let me set the scene. It’s a quiet evening at home, sitting on the couch, when suddenly, I spot a spider hanging out on the wall across the room. At first, I thought, It’s fine, I’ll leave it alone. But then, it scurries into a dark corner, and I realize this might be the beginning of something more. I couldn’t just let this little guy (or girl?) take over my home.
So, I set out on a mission to learn how to get rid of spiders naturally and effectively. Over time, I discovered that preventing them from entering, using natural deterrents, and, when necessary, commercial products, were all part of the solution. If you’re dealing with a similar problem, keep reading! I’ve got you covered with some tried-and-true methods that’ll help you tackle this once and for all.
Why Are Spiders Invading My Home?
Before we dive into solutions, let’s quickly talk about why spiders like to make themselves at home in your space. The main reason? Food and shelter. Spiders are natural hunters that prey on smaller insects, and your home may be a buffet for them especially if you have pests like flies, mosquitoes, or ants around.
Additionally, cooler weather in the fall and winter can drive spiders indoors in search of warmth. If your house provides the right conditions, such as dark, undisturbed spaces, they’ll be happy to set up shop.
How to Get Rid of Spiders Coming Into My Home?
Preventing spiders from making an appearance in your home starts with creating a spider-unfriendly environment. These practical steps can help you secure your space:
Seal Entry Points
The first step is to seal any cracks or gaps in your walls, around windows, doors, and even utility pipes. You’d be surprised at how small of a gap a spider can slip through! Use caulk or weather stripping to close off these entry points. You don’t have to be an expert handyman, just a quick inspection and some minor fixes can do wonders.
Reduce Clutter
Spiders love clutter because it provides them with ideal hiding spots. Keep your home tidy, especially in storage areas like basements, attics, and garages. Opt for sealed plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes for storage, and regularly clean areas under furniture, beds, and in closets. Keeping your floors and surfaces clear will make your space less appealing to spiders.
Clean Regularly
It may seem like a basic task, but regular cleaning is one of the best ways to get rid of spiders. Vacuum frequently can serve as one of the best ways on how to get rid of spiders. Paying close attention to corners, under furniture, and along baseboards to remove webs, egg sacs, and any wandering spiders. Dusting surfaces and ceiling corners regularly will help you stay ahead of any spider activity before it becomes a bigger problem.
Manage Outdoor Areas
Spiders can use branches and bushes as bridges to enter your home. Trim back any tree branches, bushes, or vines that touch your house, especially near windows and doors. Also, store firewood and other debris piles away from your home’s foundation, these act as perfect spider hideouts.
Control Food Sources
Spiders are on the hunt for food, so by eliminating their prey, you can discourage them from sticking around. Regularly clean crumbs and any spills, and keep your home free from pests like flies or ants. If you have a pest problem in addition to the spiders, addressing that will help solve the issue holistically.
What Are the Best Natural Deterrents to Get Rid of Spiders?
While prevention is crucial, learning how to get rid of spiders before they even enter your home is just as important. Here are some effective methods to keep them out in the first place:
Essential Oils
Spiders hate strong scents, which is where essential oils come in. Mix about 20 drops of peppermint, eucalyptus, tea tree, or lavender oil with water in a spray bottle, and spray the mixture around entry points like windowsills, door frames, and corners. The smell is potent enough to drive spiders away, and it’ll leave your house smelling fresh, too.
Vinegar
Another effective way on how to get rid of spiders is by using white vinegar. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and apply it to areas like corners, crevices, and cracks. While this method can be helpful in driving spiders away, be cautious if you have varnished surfaces, as the acidity of vinegar can cause damage.
Cedar and Citrus
Spiders dislike the smell of cedar and citrus. You can use cedar balls or chips in closets, attics, and drawers, or rub citrus peels (orange, lemon, or lime) on windowsills and baseboards. These scents are natural, pleasant to humans, and a great spider deterrent.
Diatomaceous Earth (DE)
Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is a non-toxic powder that can be sprinkled in out-of-the-way areas like attics or behind appliances. DE kills spiders by dehydrating them, so it’s a good long-term solution for keeping your home spider-free. Just sprinkle a thin layer and leave it to do its work.
What Should I Do If Natural Methods Don’t Work?
If you’ve tried natural methods and still find spiders creeping around, it might be time to turn to commercial products or professional help. Here’s what you can consider:
Store-Bought Repellents and Killers
There are several store-bought sprays designed to eliminate spiders or repel them from your home. Products like Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer or Mighty Mint Spider Repellent are available and can be applied to the perimeter of your home and entry points. Always follow the label directions for best results.
Sticky Traps
Another option is sticky glue traps, which you can place along walls and in corners. These traps help capture spiders and can also help identify areas where spiders are most active, so you can address the root cause.
Professional Exterminators
If you have a significant infestation, or you’re dealing with venomous spiders like the black widow or brown recluse, it may be time to call in the professionals. An exterminator can offer targeted treatments and help prevent future infestations. Sometimes, dealing with spiders on your own isn’t enough, and professional expertise is the best solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I know if I have a spider infestation?
The signs of a spider infestation can include seeing lots of webs, egg sacs, and dead insects around your home. If you’re finding spiders in multiple rooms, especially in hidden areas like closets, attics, and basements, you may have an infestation.
2. Can I use natural remedies if I have pets in the house?
Yes, natural remedies like essential oils and diatomaceous earth are generally safe for pets when used correctly. However, always check which oils are safe for your specific animals, and avoid placing DE where pets can easily ingest it.
3. What are the most common types of spiders in homes?
A: Common household spiders include house spiders, black widows, brown recluse spiders, and cellar spiders. If you encounter a spider bite from a venomous one, it’s best to contact a professional immediately.
Keep Calm & Say Goodbye to Spiders
Getting rid of spiders doesn’t have to be a stressful ordeal. By taking a few simple steps, such as using preventive measures and natural deterrents, you can keep these creepy crawlers out of your home. The key to how to get rid of spiders is creating an environment that’s unappealing to them whether that’s sealing entry points, maintaining cleanliness, or using essential oils to deter them. If the problem continues despite your efforts, don’t hesitate to contact a professional to handle it. Follow these steps, and soon you’ll be enjoying a spider-free home with peace of mind to match.
