How to Get Rid of Spiders

Table of Contents

Spiders are an unwelcome guest in most homes. While these arachnids play an essential role in keeping other insect populations in check, they often cause discomfort and even fear for many residents. Fortunately, there are several effective ways to get rid of spiders in a house using DIY methods.  This article will cover various techniques on how to get rid of spiders in your house, from natural repellents to preventive measures, as well as discuss when professional help is necessary for larger spider infestations. We’ll also highlight why DIY solutions may sometimes fall short and when it might be wise to reach out to pest control services for more effective and long-lasting results.

DIY Methods to Get Rid of Spiders in Your Home

If you’re looking to tackle a spider infestation or simply want to prevent spiders from making themselves at home, here are some effective DIY methods you can try. These natural remedies are safe, easy to use, and avoid the need for harsh chemicals.

1. Vinegar Spray

Vinegar is one of the most popular remedies to get rid of spiders in a home due to its strong, acidic scent that spiders dislike.
1. Vinegar Spray

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 cup of white vinegar 1 cup of white vinegar
  • 1 cup of water 1 cup of water
  • Spray bottle Spray bottle

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1
    Pour equal parts vinegar and water into a spray bottle.
Step 2
    Shake well to mix.
Step 3
    Spray this solution along baseboards, windowsills, doorways, and in any areas where you’ve seen spiders.
Step 4
    Repeat every few days for best results, especially if you’re dealing with an active spider infestation.
[why_it_works title=”WHY IT WORKS”] [why]The acetic acid in vinegar acts as a natural spider repellent, making it an accessible option to repel spiders without resorting to harsh chemicals. The strong odor disrupts spiders and discourages them from settling in.[/why] [/why_it_works]

2. Baking Soda

Baking soda is a safe and simple option for what kills spiders or keeps them away, as its texture can deter spiders from crawling in treated areas.
2. Baking Soda

INGREDIENTS

  • Baking soda Baking soda

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1
    Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda around areas where spiders tend to gather, such as under sinks, in closets, or along baseboards.
Step 2
    Reapply every few days, or whenever you clean the area.
[why_it_works title=”WHY IT WORKS”] [why]Baking soda can irritate spiders and acts as a mild deterrent, helping them stay away. Plus, it’s non-toxic and safe to use around pets and children, making it a convenient choice for families who want to get rid of spiders without worrying about harsh chemicals.[/why] [/why_it_works]

3. Essential Oils for Repelling Spiders

Essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, and lavender are powerful natural options for getting rid of spiders. Their strong scent is unpleasant to spiders but enjoyable for humans.
3. Essential Oils for Repelling Spiders

INGREDIENTS

  • 10–15 drops of essential oil (peppermint, eucalyptus, or lavender) 10–15 drops of essential oil (peppermint, eucalyptus, or lavender)
  • 1 cup of water 1 cup of water
  • Spray bottle Spray bottle

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1
    Add the essential oil drops to a cup of water in a spray bottle.
Step 2
    Shake the mixture thoroughly.
Step 3
    Spray this solution around entry points, in corners, and in areas where spiders have been seen.
Step 4
    Reapply every few days to keep the scent strong.
[why_it_works title=”WHY IT WORKS”] [why]Spiders are sensitive to strong smells, and essential oils are a natural way to get rid of spiders without chemicals. This method also leaves a pleasant aroma in your home, making it a great option for bedroom areas where you’d prefer a fresh scent.[/why] [/why_it_works]

4. Citrus-Based Sprays

Spiders are known to dislike the smell of citrus, so this DIY solution can be an effective approach to get rid of spiders at home.
4. Citrus-Based Sprays

INGREDIENTS

  • Lemon or orange peels Lemon or orange peels
  • 1 cup of water 1 cup of water
  • Spray bottle Spray bottle

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1
    Peel a lemon or an orange and place the peels in a spray bottle with water.
Step 2
    Let the mixture sit for a few hours to absorb the citrus oils.
Step 3
    Spray the solution in areas where spiders are commonly seen, such as windowsills, corners, and entry points.
[why_it_works title=”WHY IT WORKS”] [why]The natural oils in citrus fruits are unpleasant to spiders, making this a gentle but effective method to get rid of spiders. Plus, the fresh citrus scent provides a natural alternative to commercial pesticides.[/why] [/why_it_works]

5. Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder that’s effective for killing spiders and keeping them away. It works by dehydrating spiders and other pests.
5. Diatomaceous Earth

INGREDIENTS

  • Food-grade diatomaceous earth Food-grade diatomaceous earth

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1
    Lightly sprinkle diatomaceous earth around windows, doors, and entry points where spiders might come inside.
Step 2
    Reapply after cleaning or every few days.
[why_it_works title=”WHY IT WORKS”] [why]Diatomaceous earth is abrasive to spiders and other insects, causing them to dehydrate and die. This makes it a powerful spider treatment for houses that’s safe for indoor use.[/why] [/why_it_works]

6. Regular Cleaning and Decluttering

Spiders thrive in dark, undisturbed areas, so a regular cleaning routine can make your home less appealing to them. This is an essential part of getting rid of spider webs and keeping spiders from nesting.
6. Regular Cleaning and Decluttering

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1
    Vacuum regularly, especially in corners, under furniture, and in storage areas where spiders tend to hide.
Step 2
    Dust and sweep frequently to remove webs and potential spider hiding spots.
Step 3
    Declutter storage areas, as clutter provides shelter for spiders.
[why_it_works title=”WHY IT WORKS”] [why]Clean, clutter-free spaces offer fewer hiding spots, discouraging spiders from settling in. Regular vacuuming removes spider webs and eggs, which is crucial to get rid of spiders in house settings.[/why] [/why_it_works]

Why Spiders Are Attracted to Your Home?

Spiders are usually drawn indoors by the presence of food (other insects), shelter, and humidity. They often appear in quiet, undisturbed places like basements, attics, and closets. Understanding how to get rid of spiders from home starts with recognizing what brings them inside. By removing food sources and reducing entry points, you can discourage spiders from making themselves comfortable. However, even the best DIY methods might not suffice for persistent or large infestations. That’s where professional pest control becomes invaluable. If you’re dealing with an invasion of bed spiders, or if spiders keep reappearing despite your efforts, it may be time to get help from a spider control service for more targeted solutions. Before we move on to the spider removal methods, let’s quickly learn about the different types of spiders to get rid of them effectively. 

Types of Spiders and How to Identify Them

Understanding the types of spiders commonly found in homes can help you determine the best way to deal with them. Here’s a guide to some common species and how to identify them, which can be helpful if you’re dealing with a spider infestation.
[card title=”1. House Spider” image=”https://pestsexterminators.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/giant-house-spider-eratigena-atrica-brum-norway-2021-04-17-02.webp”] [card_content] <ul> <li><b>Appearance:</b> House spiders are usually small, brown, and may have a pattern of darker markings on their bodies.</li> <li><b>Behavior:</b> They’re often found in corners of rooms, basements, and attics, where they spin messy webs.</li> <li><b>Signs of Infestation:</b> Frequent, small webs in quiet, undisturbed areas are a sign of house spider activity.</li> </ul> [/card_content] [/card] [card title=”2. Wolf Spider” image=”https://pestsexterminators.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/wolf-spider-e1735631721902.jpg”] [card_content] <ul> <li><b>Appearance:</b> Wolf spiders are larger, with a hairy body and distinctive dark brown or gray coloring. They have a robust build and long legs.</li> <li><b>Behavior:</b> Unlike other spiders, wolf spiders don’t spin webs; they’re ground hunters and prefer dark corners and basements.</li> <li><b>Signs of Infestation:</b> They are often found in basements or garages, hiding in clutter. Spotting a few may indicate more hiding in unseen places.</li> </ul> [/card_content] [/card] [card title=”3. Cellar Spider (Daddy Longlegs)” image=”https://pestsexterminators.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Cellar-Spider-e1736233577522.jpg”] [card_content] <ul> <li><b>Appearance:</b> Cellar spiders are pale yellowish or gray with very long, thin legs.</li> <li><b>Behavior:</b> They spin loose, irregular webs in dark, moist areas like basements and cellars.</li> <li><b>Signs of Infestation:</b> Their webs are common in ceiling corners and can easily be noticed due to their webbing patterns.</li> </ul> [/card_content] [/card] [card title=”4. Brown Recluse” image=”https://pestsexterminators.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/brown-recluse-e1735631686694.webp”] [card_content] <ul> <li><b>Appearance:</b> Brown recluses are light to dark brown with a characteristic violin-shaped marking on their back.</li> <li><b>Behavior:</b> They are reclusive and tend to hide in dark, undisturbed areas such as closets, shoes, and cardboard boxes.</li> <li><b>Signs of Infestation:</b> Brown recluse spiders are venomous; if you spot one, it may indicate others nearby, as they can multiply quickly in dark storage spaces.</li> </ul> [/card_content] [/card] [card title=”5. Black Widow” image=”https://pestsexterminators.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/black-widow-spider-e1735631635790.jpg”] [card_content] <ul> <li><b>Appearance:</b> Black widows are shiny black with a distinct red or orange hourglass marking on the underside of their abdomen.</li> <li><b>Behavior:</b> These spiders tend to stay in dark, undisturbed areas like basements, garages, and sheds.</li> <li><b>Signs of Infestation:</b> Black widows are also venomous, and spotting one can mean more are nearby. Their webs are usually found close to the ground in quiet, hidden areas.</li> </ul> [/card_content] [/card]
How to Identify a Spider Infestation Identifying a spider infestation in your home is essential to determine whether DIY methods will suffice or if you need professional intervention. Here are some signs that may indicate a more serious spider problem.

Signs of a Spider Infestation

  • Icon
    Frequent Webs: If you’re constantly cleaning webs from the same areas, especially in corners, basements, and near windows, this could indicate a spider infestation. House spiders and cellar spiders often create webs in the same spots repeatedly.
  • Icon
    Increased Spider Sightings: If you see spiders daily or notice multiple spiders in various rooms, it’s a sign of an infestation. Occasional sightings are normal, but constant spider presence suggests a population problem.
  • Icon
    Egg Sacs: Spiders lay eggs in small, white sacs, which can often be found in corners, under furniture, or in hidden areas like basements and closets. Seeing egg sacs means there are likely more spiders on the way, signaling a potential infestation.
  • Icon
    Spider Droppings: Spider droppings look like small, dark smudges or spots and can often be found on walls, floors, and surfaces near their webs. The presence of droppings indicates active spider activity.
  • Icon
    Venomous Species: Spotting venomous spiders like black widows or brown recluses inside your home is a serious concern. These species tend to stay hidden, so if you see one, there may be more lurking out of sight.
Now, let’s take a look at various DIY methods to get rid of spiders from your home.

Outdoor Prevention: Keeping Spiders from Entering

Many spiders come indoors from the outside, so taking preventive measures outdoors is just as important. If you’re looking to get rid of spiders outside, turn off exterior lights at night, as lights attract insects, which in turn attract spiders. Sealing cracks and crevices around windows, doors, and your home’s foundation can also reduce entry points. Proper garden maintenance, like trimming vegetation and removing debris, helps eliminate potential habitats around your home. spider in Corners of Ceilings

DIY vs. Professional Pest Control: When to Call the Experts

While DIY methods can be effective for minor spider issues, larger infestations often require a more comprehensive approach. For instance, if you’re dealing with a significant number of bed spiders or if spider webs keep appearing in multiple rooms, it might indicate a deeper problem. In these cases, professional pest control can provide targeted solutions tailored to your specific situation.

When DIY Isn’t Enough:

When To Call a Professional

  • Icon
    Persistent Infestations: If spiders reappear no matter how many DIY remedies you try, professional pest control might be needed to identify and eliminate the root cause.
  • Icon
    Dangerous Species: Some spiders, like black widows or brown recluses, are venomous and require expert handling. Attempting to deal with these species on your own can be risky.
  • Icon
    Extensive Webbing: If you’re constantly cleaning webs in various parts of your home, it indicates a significant infestation that may be too challenging for DIY methods.
If your spider problem persists, reach out for a free estimate from a pest control service to help you get rid of spiders once and for all. Professionals can offer ongoing treatments that kill spiders and keep them away, providing a long-term solution that DIY methods might not achieve.

Related Articles

Crickets
What Is the Difference Between Crickets and Grasshoppers?

Comparison, Crickets

Shivanshi
Bumble Bee , Are Bumble bees harmful
What Is the Difference Between Carpenter Bees and Bumble Bees?

Bees, Comparison

Shivanshi
Carpenter Ants , why do carpenter ants appear
What Is the Difference Between Carpenter Ants and Black Ants?

Ants, Comparison

Shivanshi
hornet
What Is the Difference Between Wasp and Hornet?

Comparison, Hornet, Wasp

Shivanshi
bedbug control
What Is the Difference Between Bedbugs and Lice?

Bed Bug, Comparison

Shivanshi
bumble bee
What Is the Difference Between Bumblebees and Honey Bees?

Bees, Comparison

Shivanshi