How To Get Rid Of Spiders In Your Home And Prevent Them From Coming Back
As we ascend in the colder months, the influx of spiders in our home begins to rise. Despite the myth that they come in to stay warm, the truth is they are equipped with a natural antifreeze that prevents them from getting cold, Big Blue Bug Solutions states. Before the snow and the cold temperatures arrive, spiders stock up on food, so they're set for the winter... or are they? We hate to tell you, but these arachnids have been living with you for quite some time; they just happen to come out during the wintertime to find something to eat.
If your home is prone to fruit flies, fungus flies, or other insects, you can be sure that spiders will take notice. They'll take this time to investigate your home, looking to snag a meal. Pro Active Pest Control says your home has enough insects to keep them satisfied, so you can expect to find these eight-legged critters wandering around. To learn how to get rid of these pesky house guests (and how to keep them from coming back), keep on reading.
Getting rid of spiders
There are actually several ways to rid your home of arachnids — the first being one of the most well-known methods: spraying your home with spider sprays. They exterminate the eight-legged critter immediately, but do contain toxic chemicals and will leave behind residue, Home Depot states, so if you're looking for more natural, organic ways to rid your home of spiders, combine vinegar and water and add them to a spray bottle. Then, distribute the mixture on your baseboards, door frames, and any other entry points. You can also use peppermint essential oil, which these arachnids absolutely hate, Healthline says.
To use this method, combine 20 drops of peppermint oil (be sure you aren't using peppermint extract) with 32 ounces of water, and add to a spray bottle. As with the vinegar mixture, spray the peppermint and water anywhere you notice spiders. If you don't like the smell of peppermint, eucalyptus essential oil will work just as well.
Preventing spiders from coming back
The best way to keep spiders out of your home for good is by cutting off their entryways, Pro Active Pest Control says. This means caulking cracks, holes, gaps, and other points of entry available to the arachnid. If you happen to have broken or ripped window screens, replace them as soon as possible, as this is one of the most common ways insects, bugs, and other invertebrates enter your home. You can also prevent spiders from coming back by keeping a pest-free home. Spiders go where the food is, so if you have an insect infestation, there's a greater chance of them making their way inside.
Arachnids also love dark, messy areas, so keep your home clutter-free to prevent them from coming indoors. If you're still seeing spiders around your home and you've exhausted all options, it might be time to call a professional. According to Absolute Pest Management, pest control services will ensure your home will be spider-free for good.