It’s a brisk fall afternoon in Columbus, OH, and you’re enjoying your pumpkin spice latte while watching the colorful leaves flutter across Goodale Park.
But as you head back inside your cozy home in Clintonville, you spot something out of the corner of your eye. It’s small, brown, and spinning a web in the corner of your living room.
A spider.
For Columbus residents, spotting an uninvited eight-legged guest is a common occurrence, especially during the cooler months when spiders seek shelter indoors.
The good news? You don’t have to live with them.
Here’s everything you need to know about how to get rid of spiders in your house while keeping your space comfortable and pest-free.
Why Are There Spiders in My House?
First, let’s get one thing out of the way: spiders aren’t always a bad thing.
In fact, spiders are actually beneficial to the environment because they help control pest populations. Nonetheless, that doesn’t mean you want them making your home their habitat.
There are several common house spiders, such as the American house spider and yellow sac spider, that often seek shelter indoors during colder months. They gravitate toward dark, quiet corners and thrive in areas where they can easily spin webs and catch their meals.
Fun fact? The American house spider, one of the most common in Ohio homes, is often mistaken for the dangerous brown recluse. Don’t panic, though, because these spiders (though nefarious-looking) are actually harmless to humans. They’re just tiny squatters setting up homes in your basement or attic.
How to Get Rid of Spiders in Your House: Step-by-Step
Now that you know why there are spiders lurking in the crevices and corners of your home, here are some tips on how to get rid of them:
1. Clean Up Clutter
Spiders love hiding in dark, undisturbed areas, so start by de-cluttering your home. Cardboard boxes, piles of clothes, and random junk offer perfect hiding spots. Keep storage spaces tidy and organized.
Pro tip for Columbus basements prone to dampness? Consider watertight storage bins instead of cardboard boxes.
2. Vacuum Like a Pro
A thorough vacuuming session can work wonders. Run your vacuum along baseboards, ceilings, air vents, and corners. And don’t forget to remove those cobwebs!
To make your efforts even more effective, make sure you empty your vacuum bag or container immediately after use to make sure no spiders can crawl their way back out.
3. Seal Entry Points
Spiders gain entry through cracks, gaps, and poorly sealed windows and doors. Inspect areas around your home, especially foundations and windows, and seal any openings.
And remember: weather-stripping or caulking around windows is a must-have for homes in older Columbus neighborhoods like Clintonville. This helps keep out pests while also reducing drafts, so it’s a win-win.
4. Reduce Outdoor Attractants
Spiders tend to migrate toward homes from their nearby outdoor habitats. Trim back shrubs, reduce mulch around the perimeter, and keep outdoor lighting to a minimum. Bright lights attract insects, which, in turn, attract spiders.
5. Use Natural Deterrents
If you’re not keen on chemicals, natural deterrents might work for you. Here are two great options:
- Peppermint oil spray: Mix about 10 drops of peppermint oil with water in a spray bottle and spritz it around doors, windows, and baseboards.
- Vinegar spray: A mixture of equal parts vinegar and water is another effective DIY option.
6. Consider Professional Help
For severe infestations or recurring spider problems, calling a pest control expert is your best bet.
At Green Shield Pest Pros, we specialize in environmentally friendly pest removal services that are designed to keep your home spider-free.
Contact Green Shield Pest Pros for a Spider-Free Home
Now that you know how to get rid of spiders in your house, don’t waste another single second worrying about pests. We’ve got your back.
At Green Shield Pest Pros, we specialize in pest control solutions designed to keep your home safe, comfortable, and spider-free. If you’re in Columbus, OH or the surrounding areas, contact us today for a consultation or to schedule a service.
Did You Know?
Most spiders in Columbus are harmless. The American house spider and yellow sac spider are the most common household culprits. While the yellow sac spider’s bite can be painful, it’s not medically dangerous unless you’re allergic.
FAQ
How do I keep spiders from coming back?
To prevent recurring spider issues, do your best to maintain a clean and clutter-free home, and seal entry points like cracks and gaps. Regularly vacuum cobwebs and dust, and consider routine pest control services like those offered by Green Shield Pest Pros.
Should I use pesticides to get rid of spiders?
While some pesticides can help control spiders, they should be used sparingly. Focus on prevention strategies first. For larger infestations, professional pest control services are more effective and safer.
How can I tell if I have a spider infestation?
Finding webs in multiple corners, encountering spiders frequently, or spotting egg sacs are common signs of an infestation.
