Why Are There So Many Spiders In My House?

There are many reasons why you might have noticed an increase in spiders in your home. 

• Spiders prefer warm, damp environments and can easily take up residence in dark places such as behind furniture or in basements. 
• Other factors that could be contributing to a spider population explosion include the presence of other insects for them to feed on, such as flies, moths, and other insects. 
• Additionally, spiders tend to come inside during late summer and fall in search of a mate—this could explain why you are noticing them more frequently now. 

What Attracts House Spiders?

House spiders are attracted to a variety of factors that provide them with the resources they need to survive. Some of the most common factors that attract house spiders include:

• Food: House spiders are attracted to areas where there are other insects for them to eat. This includes places where there are flies, mosquitoes, silverfish, and other common household pests.
• Shelter: House spiders are also attracted to areas where they can find shelter and build webs. This includes corners, crevices, and other tight spaces where they can spin their webs without being disturbed.
• Moisture: House spiders need a certain amount of moisture to survive. They are attracted to areas of the house that are humid, such as basements, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.
• Light: Some species of house spiders are attracted to light, and they can be found near windows or other sources of light.
• Vibrations: House spiders are also attracted to vibrations, such as those caused by moving furniture, walking, or other activities. This can cause them to spin webs in areas where there is a lot of movement.
• Lack of regular cleaning: A cluttered and disorganized house can attract spiders. If your house is not regularly cleaned, it can provide an ideal place for spiders to live.

It's also important to note that not all house spiders are attracted to the same things, different species may have different preferences and necessities. Therefore, it's essential to identify the type of spider and the reasons that attract them to take the right actions.

How To Keep Spiders Out of Your House

There are several ways to keep spiders out of your house:

• Seal cracks and crevices: Spiders can enter your house through small openings, such as cracks in the foundation or gaps around windows and doors. Use caulk or weather stripping to seal these openings and prevent spiders from entering.
• Remove webs and egg sacs: Regularly remove webs and egg sacs that you find in your house. This will discourage spiders from setting up residence in your home.
• Keep a clean house: Spiders are attracted to cluttered and disorganized spaces. Keep your house clean and tidy, particularly in areas where spiders are commonly found, such as basements and attics.
• Control other pests: Spiders are attracted to areas where there are other insects for them to eat. Keep other pests, such as ants and flies, under control to reduce the likelihood of spiders entering your home.
• Use natural repellents: Some natural products such as peppermint oil, citrus, or eucalyptus can act as repellents for spiders. You can use them as a spray or put sachets around the house.
• Use mechanical barriers: You can use mechanical barriers such as door sweeps, window screens, and weatherstripping to keep spiders from entering your house.

It's also important to note that these methods may not completely eliminate the presence of spiders in your house, but they will help to keep their numbers down, and they'll be less likely to stay.

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DIY Natural Spider Repellents 

There are several natural spider remedies that you can use to repel spiders in your home:

• Essential oils: Essential oils such as peppermint, citrus, tea tree, or eucalyptus can act as natural repellents for spiders. You can use them to make a spray by mixing 15-20 drops of essential oil with 1 cup of water, or you can place cotton balls soaked in the oil in areas where spiders are commonly found.
• Vinegar: A solution of equal parts water and vinegar can be sprayed in areas where spiders are commonly found. The strong odor of vinegar can repel spiders and make your home less attractive to them.
• Citrus peels: Spiders do not like the strong smell of citrus, so placing citrus peels, such as lemon, orange, grapefruit, or other types of citronella, in areas where spiders are commonly found can repel them.
• Diatomaceous earth: This natural powder, made from fossilized algae, can be spread around the house in areas where spiders are commonly found. The small sharp particles can damage the spiders' exoskeleton and will cause them to dehydrate and die.
• Bay leaves and clove sachets: You can make sachets filled with bay leaves and cloves to place around your house. Simply fill small cloth bags with the dried herbs and place them in areas where spiders are commonly found.
• Garlic and chili pepper spray: Mix 5 cloves of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of chili pepper flakes in a liter of water. Let it sit for a day, strain and put it in a spray bottle. Spray in areas where spiders are commonly found.

Again, it's important to note that while these remedies can help to repel spiders, they may not completely eliminate the presence of spiders in your house. However, these natural spider deterrents can be a useful tool to make your house less attractive to them and reduce their numbers.

How to Get Rid of Spiders In Your House

There are several ways to get rid of spiders in your house:

• Vacuuming: Regular vacuuming of your house can help to remove spiders, their webs, and eggs. Be sure to vacuum around windows, corners, and other areas where spiders are commonly found.
• Use a spider trap: Spider traps are a great way to catch and remove spiders from your house. You can purchase these traps or make your own by using a container, such as a jar, and some sticky substance, like petroleum jelly.
• Use a chemical spray: Chemical sprays, such as those containing pyrethrin or permethrin, can be used to kill spiders and their eggs. Be sure to read the label and follow the instructions carefully, and avoid using sprays near food or in areas where children and pets may come into contact with them.
• Professional help: If you have a severe spider infestation or are concerned about venomous spiders, it may be necessary to seek professional help to eliminate the problem. Pest control professionals have the tools and expertise to effectively eliminate spiders and prevent them from returning.

If you live in Washington DC, Maryland, or Virginia and are in need of professional spider removal, look no further than Senate Termite & Pest Control. With over 30 years of experience, we know exactly how to get rid of spiders for good. We even provide year-round pest protection, which can help to prevent household pests from infesting your home and attracting other critters like spiders. Contact us today to learn more.