Spiders are a common pest in homes. They can be challenging to get rid of and often reappear after seemingly being eradicated. While many people are afraid of spiders, they are generally harmless. In North America, there are about 3,000 species of spiders, but only a few are considered dangerous. Yet no one wants them inside their house! There are various ways to keep your home spider-free, including prevention, DIY methods, and professional services.
Reasons Spiders Enter Your Home
Nobody wants spiders in their home, and there are several reasons why they might invade your living space.
- Looking for Water
One reason for spiders in the home is that they are looking for water. Spiders may be attracted to the moisture if there is a leaky faucet or a plumbing problem.
- Searching for Food
Spiders may also enter your home in search of food. If you have a lot of insects in your house, it will be attractive to spiders.
- Seeking Shelter
Finally, spiders may seek shelter in your home if they feel threatened by predators or bad weather.
How Spiders Enter Your Home
The first step is identifying where spiders are most likely to be found. Spiders like dark, sheltered areas, so look in closets, under furniture, and in dark corners. One of the most common ways spiders enter homes is through cracks and crevices in the foundation or around doors and windows. Spiders may also be drawn to your home by moisture or by the presence of insects on which they prey.
How to Spider-Proof Your Home
There are three main ways to ensure your home remains spider-free.
- Seal the Entries
One way to spider-proof your home is by caulking any cracks or crevices you may have. This will help keep the spiders from being able to enter your home. Use weather stripping and seal your door’s outside edges. Another tip is to make sure that your windows are properly sealed. You can also use a mesh screen on your windows, doors, and crawl spaces.
- Get Rid of Your Clutter
Spiders are attracted to the clutter that can build up inside and outside our dwellings. So start by clearing out any unnecessary items from inside your home. This includes piles of clothes or newspapers, stacks of books or magazines, and anything else that takes up valuable space. Make sure to clear out closets, cabinets, and drawers as well. You may also want to vacuum and mop your floors regularly to remove any spider webs or eggs lurking there. Outdoors, you’ll want to take care of any overgrown vegetation, weeds, or piles of debris. If you have a lot of trees and bushes around your home, make sure to trim them back so the spiders can’t build their webs in them.
- Make your Home Unattractive to Spiders
While DIY solutions often won’t completely eliminate the pesky problem of spiders in your home, they can help make your house an attractive place for spiders to live. A few homemade solutions to try include:
- Diatomaceous Earth
Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the outside of your home or even on the inside if you have a spider problem. It kills many creepy crawlies, including spiders, yet is safe for humans and pets to be around. - Essential Oils
Spiders are deterred by several essential oils such as peppermint and lavender. You can fill; a bottle with water and a few drops of oil and spray liberally. An added benefit is the pleasing aroma!
In addition to being a nuisance, spiders can also be dangerous. Some species of spiders are venomous and can cause serious injuries. If you have spiders in your home, getting rid of them safely and effectively is essential. Prevention and homemade solutions are a good start, but you often need extra help from a professional to rid your home of spiders for good. The experts at Target Pest Control are ready to help you get back to living free from spiders, so call them today!
