How to Get Rid of Spiders

How to Identify Spiders

Spiders have eight legs, two body segments, and no wings or antennae, which distinguishes them from insects. Common house spiders are small and build messy cobwebs in corners, while cellar spiders have long, thin legs and gather in basements. The two species of concern in the U.S. are the black widow — shiny black with a red hourglass marking on its underside — and the brown recluse, a tan spider with a violin-shaped mark behind its head. Identifying whether you're dealing with a harmless nuisance or a venomous species is important for deciding next steps.

Signs of an Spiders Problem

• Webs in corners, ceilings, basements, or garages
• Frequent spider sightings, especially at night
• Egg sacs (small silk balls) in webs or hidden areas
• An increase in other insects that spiders feed on
• Spiders concentrating in undisturbed storage areas
• Shed skins near webs or harborage spots

Why Spiders Are a Problem

• Black widow and brown recluse bites can cause serious reactions
• Bites may lead to pain, swelling, or in rare cases tissue damage
• Large numbers of webs signal an underlying insect problem
• Spiders can be distressing for those with arachnophobia
• Venomous species often hide in shoes, boxes, and clothing

Why DIY Often Falls Short

Knocking down webs and stepping on spiders does nothing to address why they're in your home in the first place — usually an abundant supply of other insects to eat. Over-the-counter sprays have limited residual effect and rarely reach the cracks, voids, and undisturbed corners where spiders and their egg sacs hide. Without reducing the food source and treating harborage areas, spiders simply return, and attempting to handle venomous species without proper identification can be dangerous.

How a Professional Handles Spiders

• A licensed pest control professional will identify whether dangerous species are present
• A pro inspects and treats cracks, corners, and harborage areas
• Professional treatment typically involves removing webs and egg sacs
• A pro addresses the underlying insect population spiders feed on
• Treatment often includes targeted, labeled products in entry points
• A professional can recommend exclusion to seal gaps spiders use to enter

How to Prevent Spiders

• Remove webs and egg sacs regularly with a vacuum
• Reduce clutter in basements, garages, and closets
• Seal cracks, gaps, and openings around windows and doors
• Keep outdoor lights off or use bulbs that attract fewer insects
• Control other pests that spiders rely on for food
• Store shoes, clothing, and boxes off the floor and shake them out

Spiders FAQs