Spiders crawling across your floor. Webs in the corners. That unsettling feeling that you’re being watched from the ceiling.
You’re not imagining things. Spider infestations are more common than you think.
While most house spiders are harmless, their presence can be unsettling. In some cases, it can even be dangerous. Left unchecked, a few stray spiders can quickly turn into a full-blown infestation, especially during cooler months when they seek warmth indoors.
The good news is that with the right spider pest control strategy, you can eliminate spiders and keep them from coming back.
In this guide, we will walk you through:
- The most common types of house spiders and which ones to watch out for
- Clear signs of a spider infestation
- Why spiders are entering your home
- Step-by-step removal methods, from natural remedies to chemical solutions
- When it is time to call a professional spider exterminator near you
Let’s reclaim your home, safely and effectively.
Common Types of House Spiders: What You’re Dealing With
Not all spiders are created equal. Some are harmless helpers that eat pests. Others can pose real health risks. Knowing the difference is the first step in effective spider control in home environments.
Here are the six most common house spiders you might encounter.
Brown Recluse
- Appearance: Light to dark brown, with a distinct “violin-shaped” mark on its back.
- Size: About 6-20 mm, including legs.
- Danger Level: High. Its bite can cause tissue damage and require medical attention.
- Habitat: Quiet, undisturbed areas such as closets, attics and under furniture.
- Signs: Rarely seen. They hide during the day and only bite if pressed against skin.
Black Widow
- Appearance: Shiny black body with a red hourglass mark on the underside of its abdomen.
- Size: 8-13 mm body, up to 40 mm with legs.
- Danger Level: High. Venomous. Bites can cause muscle pain, nausea and require emergency care.
- Habitat: Dark, dry places such as garages, basements and woodpiles.
- Signs: Irregular, tangled webs close to the ground.
Cellar Spider (aka “Daddy Longlegs”)
- Appearance: Pale yellow or gray with extremely long, thin legs.
- Size: Up to 50 mm, including legs.
- Danger Level: Low. Completely harmless to humans.
- Habitat: Damp areas such as basements, bathrooms and cellars.
- Signs: Drooping, messy webs in ceiling corners.
Wolf Spider
- Appearance: Hairy, robust body in shades of brown, gray or black.
- Size: 10-35 mm. One of the larger house spiders.
- Danger Level: Low. Bites are rare and usually mild, similar to a bee sting.
- Habitat: Ground level, under furniture, in garages or near doors.
- Signs: Fast-moving, often seen at night. May carry egg sacs.
Jumping Spider
- Appearance: Small, fuzzy body with large front eyes. Color ranges from black and brown to iridescent.
- Size: 4-10 mm.
- Danger Level: Low. Harmless and curious, not aggressive.
- Habitat: Sunlit areas, windowsills and walls.
- Signs: Active during the day. Jumps when startled.
Signs of a Spider Infestation
Think it’s just a few random spiders? Watch for these red flags of a larger problem.
- Webs in corners, ceilings or behind furniture. Especially if they reappear after cleaning.
- Egg sacs. Silky, round pouches, often guarded by female spiders.
- Frequent spider sightings. More than one or two per week suggests breeding.
- Sudden increase in flying insects. Spiders follow their food source, such as flies or moths.
- Shed exoskeletons. Signs of growth and population turnover.
If you’re seeing multiple signs, it’s time to act before the infestation grows.
Why Are There So Many Spiders in My House?
Spiders do not invade homes for fun. They are driven by survival needs.
Climate & Seasonal Shifts
Spiders become more active in fall and winter, seeking warmth indoors. Cooler outdoor temperatures push them toward heated homes.
Food & Moisture
Spiders follow prey. If you have ants, flies or silverfish, spiders will too. Leaky pipes, damp basements or high humidity attract both insects and spiders.
Clutter & Hiding Spots
Boxes, piles of clothes and unused storage create perfect hiding places. Dark, undisturbed areas equal ideal spider real estate.
Fix the root causes, and you will make your home far less inviting.
How to Get Rid of Spiders: A Step-by-Step Plan
Don’t panic. Follow this proven method to eliminate spiders and prevent their return.
Immediate Actions: Stop the Spread
- Vacuum webs and spiders daily.
Use a crevice tool to reach corners, ceilings and baseboards. Dispose of the vacuum bag or wipe the canister. - Seal cracks and entry points.
Check windows, doors, foundation gaps and utility lines. Use caulk or weatherstripping to close them. - Declutter storage areas.
Remove cardboard boxes, organize closets and elevate stored items off the floor.
Natural Spider Repellent Solutions
Prefer chemical-free options? Try these DIY spider control tips.
- Peppermint oil spray: Mix 10-15 drops of essential oil with water in a spray bottle. Apply around windows, doors and baseboards. Spiders dislike the scent.
- Vinegar and water solution (1:1): Spray in corners and dark areas. The acidity deters spiders.
- Citrus peels: Place lemon, orange or grapefruit peels near entry points. Replace every few days.
Chemical Solutions: When You Need Stronger Action
For persistent problems, consider:
- Spider-specific sprays.
Choose trusted options with residual formulas that last for weeks. Apply along baseboards, under sinks and around entry points. - Residual perimeter treatments.
Apply insecticides around the foundation, windows and doors to create a protective barrier.
When to Call a Professional Spider Exterminator
DIY methods are not always enough. Call a professional spider removal service if you:
- See recurring infestations despite cleaning and spraying
- Spot dangerous spiders such as black widows or brown recluses
- Find multiple egg sacs or large webs in hidden areas
- Want long-term prevention with guaranteed results
Prevention Tips: Keep Spiders Out for Good
The best spider control in home settings is prevention. Make your space uninviting with these simple habits.
- Clean regularly: Vacuum weekly, especially in corners and under furniture.
- Reduce outdoor lighting: Swap white bulbs for yellow or LED. These attract fewer insects, which are spider food.
- Use dehumidifiers: Keep basements and bathrooms dry. Spiders prefer moisture.
- Install screens and door sweeps: Close gaps where spiders crawl in.
- Trim vegetation: Keep bushes and tree branches away from your home’s exterior.
Conclusion: Take Control of Your Home Today
Spiders may be a common household pest, but they do not have to be a permanent one.
By identifying the types of house spiders in your home, recognizing signs of spider infestation and taking targeted action, you can eliminate them safely and effectively.
Whether you choose natural spider repellent, DIY cleanup or professional help, the key is consistency. Do not wait until webs multiply or dangerous species appear.
Your home should be a safe, spider-free zone.
If you are dealing with a recurring problem or want peace of mind, it is time to bring in the experts. SoftCare Pest Control offers fast, reliable and thorough spider pest control services tailored to your home. With trained technicians, safe treatment methods and preventive strategies, they help ensure your space stays spider-free year-round.
Contact SoftCare Pest Control today for a comprehensive inspection and a customized treatment plan. Because no one should have to share their home with uninvited eight-legged guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I have so many spiders in my home?
Spiders enter seeking warmth, food (like other insects), and shelter. Clutter, moisture, and gaps in your home make it easier for them to move in and stay.
Are spiders dangerous?
Most house spiders are harmless, but black widows and brown recluses can deliver bites that require medical attention.
How can I prevent spiders from entering my home?
Seal cracks, reduce clutter, fix moisture issues, and install door sweeps to block entry points spiders use.
What is the best way to get rid of spiders?
Combine vacuuming, sealing entry points, and using natural repellents like peppermint oil — or call a pro for persistent infestations.
What smells do spiders hate?
Spiders dislike strong scents like peppermint, vinegar, citrus, and tea tree oil, which can act as natural deterrents.
When are spiders most active indoors?
Spiders are most active inside during fall and winter when they move in to escape cooler outdoor temperatures.
What are the most common house spiders?
Common types include cellar spiders, wolf spiders, jumping spiders, and occasionally black widows or brown recluses in certain regions.
How do I know if I have a spider infestation?
Frequent sightings, multiple webs, egg sacs, and shed skins are clear signs of an established spider problem.
Do natural spider repellents really work?
Yes, for mild cases – peppermint oil, vinegar, and diatomaceous earth can deter spiders but aren’t foolproof for serious infestations.
Should I call a professional for spider control?
Yes, if you see dangerous spiders, recurring activity, or many egg sacs, a licensed exterminator provides safer, longer-lasting results.