Spiders are often the unwanted guests we find in our homes. Though they may not be dangerous in most cases, many people simply don’t want to share their living space with these eight-legged creatures. Whether it’s the sight of a spider crawling across the floor or the webs they leave behind, dealing with these pests can become quite a nuisance.
Fortunately, there are numerous effective ways to keep spiders at bay without resorting to harsh chemicals. Here are 15 methods to help you get rid of spiders and prevent them from coming back.
Why Spiders Enter Your Home
Spiders often invade homes for a variety of reasons, but the primary factor is shelter and food. As the weather gets colder, spiders move indoors in search of a warm, safe environment. Homes offer dark, quiet spaces where they can weave their webs and catch insects. In addition, spiders are attracted to places with abundant food sources, such as kitchens, basements, and attics, where they can feast on small insects that thrive in these environments.
By understanding why spiders come into your home, you can take proactive steps to prevent their entry.
The Importance of Regular Cleaning in Preventing Spiders
One of the most effective ways to keep spiders out of your home is through regular cleaning. Spiders thrive in dusty, cluttered spaces where they can build their webs undisturbed. By cleaning your home frequently, especially in areas like basements, attics, and garages, you make it less inviting for spiders to set up camp.
Vacuuming and dusting not only removes webs and eggs but also eliminates insects that spiders feed on. Be sure to pay special attention to corners, behind furniture, and other hidden areas where spiders might seek refuge.
Effective Ways to Get Rid of Spiders
1. Remove Cobwebs Regularly
Spiders are naturally drawn to areas where they can build their webs in peace, often in corners, behind furniture, or near doors and windows. If you frequently remove these webs, spiders will be less likely to stay in those spots. Regular housekeeping, including dusting and vacuuming, can disrupt the webs and deter spiders from re-establishing their homes. While they may move to nearby sheds or garages, maintaining a clean environment in your home makes it less inviting to these pests.
2. Repel Spiders with Vinegar
Vinegar is not only a fantastic cleaning agent but also an effective spider repellent. Spiders detest the strong odor of vinegar. You can easily make a homemade spider repellent by mixing equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spritz this mixture around windowsills, doorways, and other areas where you commonly spot spiders. Though the smell dissipates quickly for humans, spiders will still be able to sense it and steer clear of your home.
3. Grow Plants That Spiders Hate
Certain plants are known to repel spiders due to their strong scents. These include eucalyptus, lavender, mint, and citronella. Consider planting these near your doors, windows, or outdoor areas where spiders are likely to enter. Additionally, you can place them in indoor planters. Not only do these plants keep spiders at bay, but they also add a refreshing fragrance to your home.
4. Seal Gaps and Cracks
Spiders can easily find their way into your home through small gaps and cracks around doors, windows, and even the foundation of your house. To keep them out, inspect your home for any potential entry points and seal them with caulk or weather stripping. This small but effective measure will help minimize spider activity inside your home.
5. Turn Off Outdoor Lights at Night
While outdoor lighting is essential for security, it can attract insects, which, in turn, draw spiders. The lights lure insects, and spiders follow suit, looking for an easy meal. Try turning off unnecessary outdoor lights at night or switching to yellow-toned bulbs that are less attractive to insects. This will reduce the number of spiders drawn to your home.
6. Prune Your Garden Regularly
Spiders are often found in gardens, where they thrive in bushes, trees, and other overgrown areas. If you have vegetation near your house, make sure to prune it regularly. Keeping bushes, shrubs, and plants well-maintained will not only improve your garden’s appearance but also discourage spiders from making their home too close to your doors and windows.
7. Maintain a Regular Cleaning Schedule
Spiders thrive in dusty, cluttered environments. To discourage them from settling in your home, clean regularly, especially in areas like attics, basements, and garages. Vacuum corners, crevices, and other hidden spots where spiders may be hiding. By keeping your home neat and tidy, you’ll make it less inviting to these creepy crawlers.
8. Inspect Houseplants for Spiders
While houseplants are generally not a preferred habitat for spiders, they can sometimes hide among the leaves or in the soil. If you notice spiders in your plants, it’s a good idea to take them outside for a thorough inspection. Be aware of spider mites, which are another type of arachnid that can infest plants. If you see these pests, consider using natural remedies or pest control methods to eliminate them.
9. Use Citrus to Repel Spiders
The fresh scent of citrus is another natural deterrent for spiders. You can make a simple spray by mixing 20 drops of lemon or orange essential oil with water in a spray bottle. Spritz the solution around windowsills, corners, and any spider-prone areas. Alternatively, you can also use cinnamon, peppermint, or tea tree oil, which also have spider-repelling properties.
10. Store Items Securely
Spiders love undisturbed hiding spots, and often, seldom-used items in your home, like holiday decorations or storage boxes, can provide them with just that. To avoid giving them a place to nest, store these items in tightly sealed boxes or plastic bins. This will help ensure that spiders don’t take up residence in your belongings.
11. Move the Woodpile
If you keep a woodpile near your home, consider relocating it further away. Woodpiles provide spiders with a perfect hiding spot, and it’s just a short crawl from the woodpile to your home. By moving the pile to a more distant location, you can reduce the chances of spiders finding their way inside.
12. Show Spiders the Door (Part 1)
If you encounter a spider in your home, the easiest way to get rid of it without causing harm is to capture it and release it outside. Use a glass and a piece of cardboard to trap the spider, then carefully carry it outside. This method works for most non-venomous spiders and can be an easy way to relocate them without having to resort to harmful chemicals.
13. Show Spiders the Door (Part 2)
For those who prefer not to get too close to spiders, a bug grabber can be a useful tool. A bug grabber allows you to safely capture and release spiders from a distance. Devices like the My Critter Catcher are designed to handle small insects, making them a perfect solution for those who want to avoid direct contact with spiders.
14. Use Essential Oils
Many essential oils are naturally repellent to spiders. In addition to citrus and peppermint, oils like lavender, eucalyptus, and tea tree oil can be mixed with water and sprayed around your home to repel spiders. You can also use a diffuser to spread the scent throughout your home. Not only will this help keep spiders away, but it will also leave your space smelling pleasant.
15. Hire a Professional Exterminator
If you’ve tried all these methods and still find spiders in your home, it may be time to consult a professional pest control service. Pest control experts can assess your home for any infestations and apply more advanced treatments, ensuring that your home remains spider-free. This option can be especially helpful if you’re dealing with venomous spiders or a large infestation.
Conclusion
Spiders may be beneficial for controlling other pests in your home, but that doesn’t mean you have to share your living space with them. By following these 15 effective methods, you can discourage spiders from entering your home and make your environment more comfortable. Regular cleaning, sealing gaps, using natural repellents like essential oils, and taking preventative measures can go a long way in keeping these eight-legged intruders at bay. If all else fails, a professional pest control service can provide a more thorough solution.
By using these techniques, you’ll be well on your way to creating a spider-free home.
