If you’re like most people, you don’t exactly roll out the welcome mat for creepy crawlies like spiders. While they’re great at keeping other pests in check, that doesn’t mean you want them lurking in the corners of your home — especially spiders like black widows or brown recluses.
The good news is they aren’t moving in because they love your decorating style. They’re simply looking for food, shelter and a safe place to lay eggs. If your house offers a cozy environment and a buffet of bugs, they’ll happily move in.
So how do you get spiders to take their hunting elsewhere without wanting to burn everything to the ground? With the help of Bryan Kuhn, PharmD, a pharmacist and clinical toxicologist with Banner Health, we share 10 ways to spider-proof your house or apartment so you can live your best (arachnid-free) life.
1. Declutter
Spiders love dark, undisturbed spaces. “If you have a lot of clutter, you’re creating more hiding spots for them,” Dr. Kuhn said.
Regularly vacuum, dust and declutter, especially in corners, under furniture and inside garages and storage areas.
Store items in sealed plastic containers rather than cardboard boxes. If shoes and clothing have been sitting for a while, shake them out before wearing them. “People often get bitten when they reach into storage areas or wear boots left out in the shed or garage,” Dr. Kuhn said.
2. Don’t leave food out (even for other pests)
Spiders don’t come for your food but they do come for other bugs that might. “If you have an insect problem, you’re likely to have a spider problem too,” Dr. Kuhn warned.
Keep food sealed, take out the trash regularly and avoid leaving dirty dishes in the sink.
3. Seal up entry points
The best way to keep spiders out is to prevent them from getting inside in the first place.
“Gaps around the foundation, doors and windows are prime entry points for spiders and other pests,” Dr. Kuhn said. “Sealing these areas can make a big difference.”
Close gaps with caulk or weather stripping and check for cracks in your walls or baseboards. Cover attic vents, crawl spaces, chimney openings and other entry points with fine wire mesh screens.
4. Fix leaks
Many insects are drawn to water, so a leaky faucet or pipe is like ringing the dinner bell. Repair or call in reinforcements like a plumber to repair leaking faucets, drains and pipes inside the house.
5. Turn off the lights
Outdoor lights might look pretty but they attract bugs (like a moth to a flame, am I right?). And where bugs go, spiders follow.
To keep things darker and less inviting, use yellow or “bug lights” that are less attractive to insects. Use motion sensor lighting to limit the amount of light outdoors. Close your curtains and blinds at night to prevent indoor lights from drawing bugs to your windows.
6. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth
This natural powder is effective at deterring spiders, scorpions and other pests. “Diatomaceous earth (DE) absorbs water rapidly and arthropods like spiders are highly sensitive to body water composition,” Dr. Kuhn said. “It kills insects by dehydrating them.”
DE is non-toxic to mammals, including humans, pets and the environment. Sprinkle it by entryways or other places where you notice insects.
7. Use peppermint or eucalyptus oil
Certain essential oils may help deter spiders naturally. Soak a cotton ball in the oil and place it near windows, doors and other access points.
“Peppermint oil and eucalyptus oil isn’t harmful if a child or pet gets a small lick or taste, but you want to be mindful of placing them out of reach of young children and pets,” Dr. Kuhn said.
Vinegar and citrus scents may also be deterrents. To create an unwelcoming environment for spiders, mix white vinegar and water or wipe down areas with lemon or orange peels.
The effectiveness of these DIY methods can vary and consistent application is often necessary to maintain their effect.
8. Keep your yard in check
Keep your yard tidy by regularly trimming bushes and trees away from your house. Spiders use branches as bridges to get inside. Rake up leaves and debris. Spiders love hiding in woodpiles. Store firewood or other materials away from your house.
9. Buy pest control sprays
Many big-box stores, such as Walmart, Lowe’s and Home Depot, carry insecticides or insect killers. Chemical sprays can be effective and fast-acting but safety should be a priority. Look for products that are safe for indoor use and follow label instructions.
“Most over-the-counter (OTC) sprays from home improvement stores have relatively low toxicity with incidental exposure,” Dr. Kuhn said. “But if you use it indoors, avoid applying it near food sources like countertops and ventilate the space if needed.”
If you’re concerned about exposure, you can wear gloves, eye protection or a face covering when applying these products.
“No product is 100% devoid of toxicity, so keep out of reach of children and pets,” Dr. Kuhn added. “Store all repellents and pesticides up and out of reach of children and pets.”
10. If all else fails, call in the professionals
If spiders continue to be a problem, a professional pest control company may be your best bet.
“Sometimes identifying access points is best left to a qualified pest service company,” Dr. Kuhn said. “They have experience with different construction materials and know what might be accessible to spiders and insects.”
Final thoughts
Spiders may be an important part of the ecosystem but that doesn’t mean you want them in your home. By following these tips and taking reasonable precautions, you can keep your living space comfortable and (mostly) spider-free.
If you ever have concerns about the safety of a product or there’s an accidental ingestion, reach out to a Poison Control Center at 800-222-1222 or a professional for help.
