Spiders may be great for controlling pests, but most people don’t want them crawling around their home. While most house spiders are harmless, some species—like black widows and brown recluses—can pose a threat.
If you’re tired of finding spiders in your home, this guide will show you how to eliminate them quickly and keep them from coming back.
🕷️ Why Do Spiders Enter Your Home?
Spiders don’t invade homes for warmth or shelter—they come looking for food (other insects). If your house has flies, mosquitoes, or ants, it’s an open invitation for spiders to move in.
Common Reasons Spiders Enter Homes:
✔ Food Source – Spiders eat other bugs, so infestations attract them.
✔ Dark, Cluttered Areas – Basements, attics, and closets make perfect hiding spots.
✔ Gaps & Cracks – Small openings around windows, doors, and walls let spiders sneak in.
✔ Moisture – Some spiders prefer damp environments like basements and bathrooms.
🚀 How to Get Rid of Spiders Quickly
If you have spiders in your home, here are the best ways to eliminate them.
1. Use a Vacuum (Best for Immediate Removal) 🏠
✔ Works instantly to remove live spiders, eggs, and webs.
✔ Use a vacuum with a hose attachment for corners and ceilings.
✔ Empty the vacuum outside to prevent them from crawling back out.
📌 Best For: Small spider infestations and quick cleanup.
2. Natural Repellents (Safe & Effective) 🌿
If you prefer chemical-free solutions, these natural spider repellents work wonders.
Peppermint Oil Spray
✔ Spiders hate the strong smell of peppermint.
✔ Mix 10 drops of peppermint oil with 1 cup of water and spray around windows, doors, and corners.
Vinegar Spray
✔ White vinegar’s acidity repels spiders.
✔ Mix equal parts vinegar and water, spray in spider-prone areas.
Citrus Peels or Lemon Spray
✔ Spiders dislike the smell of citrus.
✔ Rub lemon or orange peels along windowsills and baseboards.
Cedarwood or Eucalyptus
✔ Placing cedar chips or using eucalyptus oil in closets deters spiders.
📌 Best For: Preventing new spiders from entering and repelling existing ones.
3. Declutter & Clean Regularly 🧹
✔ Remove cobwebs as soon as you see them.
✔ Dust and vacuum regularly, especially in corners, closets, and under furniture.
✔ Keep storage areas neat—spiders love hiding in cluttered spaces.
📌 Best For: Long-term spider control and prevention.
4. Seal Entry Points (Stop Spiders From Coming In) 🚪
✔ Check window screens for holes and replace damaged ones.
✔ Seal cracks around doors, walls, and foundations with caulk.
✔ Close gaps under doors with weatherstripping.
📌 Best For: Preventing outdoor spiders from getting inside.
5. Reduce Outdoor Lighting (Less Bugs = Less Spiders) 💡
✔ Outdoor lights attract insects, which attract spiders.
✔ Use yellow or sodium vapor bulbs instead of white lights.
✔ Move bright porch lights away from doors and windows.
📌 Best For: Preventing spiders from gathering near entry points.
🧪 Chemical Solutions for Spider Control
If natural remedies aren’t enough, you can use chemical insecticides for stronger spider control.
6. Use Spider Sprays (Quick & Effective)
✔ Kills spiders on contact.
✔ Some sprays leave a residual effect, keeping spiders away for weeks.
📌 Best Sprays:
- TERRO Spider Killer Spray – Works on black widows & brown recluses.
- Ortho Home Defense – Creates a barrier that lasts up to 12 months.
📌 Best For: Killing spiders hiding in cracks, corners, and basements.
7. Set Spider Traps & Sticky Boards
✔ Catches wandering spiders before they build webs.
✔ Place traps along baseboards, under furniture, and in dark areas.
📌 Best For: Passive spider control in garages, basements, and attics.
8. Call an Exterminator for Infestations
✔ If you have dangerous spiders (like black widows or brown recluses), professional treatment is best.
✔ Pest control experts can identify problem areas and apply long-lasting treatments.
📌 Best For: Large infestations or venomous spider species.
🛡️ How to Prevent Spiders from Coming Back
Once you’ve removed spiders, take steps to keep them from returning.
✔ Keep outdoor areas clean – Trim bushes & remove debris near your home.
✔ Store firewood away from your house – Spiders love hiding in woodpiles.
✔ Use essential oil sprays – Regularly spray peppermint or vinegar near entry points.
✔ Turn off outdoor lights – Reduce insects, so spiders have no reason to hang around.
✔ Check for other pest problems – If you have flies, mosquitoes, or ants, spiders will follow.
🚨 Dangerous Spiders: When to Be Concerned
Most house spiders are harmless, but some species can be dangerous.
🕷️ Venomous Spiders in the U.S.:
1️⃣ Black Widow Spider – Recognizable by a red hourglass marking on its belly.
2️⃣ Brown Recluse Spider – Light brown with a violin-shaped marking on its back.
Signs You’ve Been Bitten:
✔ Severe pain or burning at the bite site.
✔ Swelling, redness, or an ulcer forming.
✔ Fever, chills, or nausea.
👉 If bitten by a black widow or brown recluse, seek medical attention immediately.
🔚 Final Thoughts: The Best Way to Get Rid of Spiders
Spiders may be beneficial outdoors, but keeping them out of your home is key for comfort and safety.
✔ Best Natural Repellents: Peppermint oil, vinegar, citrus, cedarwood.
✔ Best Chemical Solutions: Sprays (like Ortho Home Defense), sticky traps.
✔ Best Prevention: Keep your home clean, seal cracks, and reduce bugs.
By following these simple steps, you can eliminate spiders and keep them from coming back!
💬 What’s your go-to spider removal method? Share your tips in the comments! 🕷️👇
