Every house has spiders. These small, 8-legged protectors survive by eating flies, mosquitoes, ants, along with other insects and are mostly harmless to humans and pets. Yet often we get the willies each time an arachnid passes by them and even more so when there is a full-on spider invasion. In this article, you’ll find out how to get rid of spiders in the house.
Now, set your mind at rest and let’s find out what you can do to prevent these creepy crawlies from trespassing on your property.
So keep reading if you are someone who:
…keep reading as we will share with you some easy and useful tips on how to get rid of spiders.
There are around 650 species of spiders in the UK with only 12 of them are recorded of actually biting people. Unless you have specific allergies, these bites shouldn’t cause anything serious. The most common spiders in your home are the Daddy Long Legs, Giant House Spiders, Lace Web Spiders, Money Spiders, Cupboard spiders, and False Widow Spiders.
Spiders are attracted to your house when they are looking for food, which in their case, consists of insects. A number of species are also drawn to areas with high humidity levels, such as bathrooms, attics or basements. And lastly, just like with many other creatures, severe weather conditions can also force spiders to take refuge in your home. This is the main reason why sometimes you’ll find an outdoor species inside your house and even your garden shed. Check our dedicated post on how to keep spiders out of the shed for more info.
So, find out what the spiders from your local area prefer to eat, for example, ants or flies, and get rid of the source. You might even find that you have other bugs in your house you should get rid of. And while we’re on the topic, here are some helpful resources on getting rid of ants and moths around the house.
You have probably noticed an increasing number of spiders during Autumn. But what is the reason if they are not coming from the outside? Well, the answer is pretty simple. Daddy Long Legs is out looking for a Mommy Long Legs. In other words, it’s mating season. This usually happens at the end of the summer, but it varies for the different kinds of spiders.
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Before you go straight for the kill, our advice is to always try to relocate and get rid of the spiders humanely. If they are somewhere near an exit, such as a window, or a door, push them gently with a stick or a ruler for some motivation. If you’re brave enough, you could also just pick them with your hand and release them in the backyard.
However, if you are a bit squeamish and you just want them out of your sight, here is what else you can do to deter the spiders that paid your house a visit:
If you only need to get rid of a few spiders in the corner and not a full infestation, use a vacuum. It’s the best method for people who don’t want to get anywhere near to those little crawlers. Go through the egg sacks and webs carefully, so you don’t miss anything. You can use a broom as well.
Glue traps are usually used for capturing cockroaches and mice, but they will also work for a larger spider infestation. They are in the form of flat sheets, without any edges. You should place them in areas where you have seen a lot of spider traffic. However, if the infestation is big enough for you to use glue traps, maybe it’s time to call for a professional. They will be able to track down the source, not only remove the visible parts.
Here is another simple, natural remedy against spiders. Mix a solution of ½ cup white vinegar, 1 ½ cups of lukewarm water, and, finally, add around 10 drops of peppermint oil. Pour the mixture in a spray bottle and apply the remedy to the corners, windowsills, and any other place where you see spiders.
Diatomaceous earth has many useful applications for your home, health, and even pets. It’s made from the fossilized remains of single-celled organisms called “diatoms”, which is where the name comes from. Apply the powder-like substance on the areas where the spiders walk on. To us it’s harmless, but in the spider world, diatomaceous earth is a dangerous, edgy road to walk on, that will only lead to the spiders’ demise.
Someone somewhere said that spiders run away from conkers like vampires from garlic. However, since this is not a scientifically proven method, you can use it as a distraction for your kids while you’re dealing with the spiders. Make them place a couple of conkers on the window sills, in the corners of the rooms, and in front of your house as a protective wall from the arachnids. Here is a funny video of kids debunking this myth.
Natural remedies will work up to a point, but after that, if you want permanent results, it’s time to bring out the big guns. Those would be either a spider pest control professional or store-bought chemicals. Here is how to use chemicals to get rid of spiders at home:
Similar to the diatomaceous earth, spiders need to have direct contact with insecticides in order for them to have any effect. That’s why you need to spray the insecticide only to the places where you know a lot of the spiders walk through. Always read the label before you use the product as it is a dangerous chemical that could lead to accidental poisoning.
As for the type of insecticide you should use, slow release kinds and wettable powders are proven to be most useful as opposed to total release foggers, which aren’t as effective.
If you have small kids or pets, you need to be extra careful. Ingesting those insecticides can be lethal and requires immediate medical assistance. Keep them out of children and pet reach.
If you are afraid of dealing with spiders or you think your home is infested with them, it is best to consult with a professional. Fantastic Services follows a 4-step process:
Contact your spider control specialist today! Click more to learn about our pest control methods and to find ways of booking.
Here is what to do in order to keep spiders out of your house:
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Did you find our article on getting rid of spiders helpful? Why not share your thoughts or personal experience with us in the comments below?
Image source: depositphotos / joruba75
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