Spider-Free Living: Effective Ways to Get Rid of Spiders

One of the most common fears in the world is arachnophobia or the fear of spiders. Their webs, multiple eyes, and eight legs tend to send shivers down people’s spines and want to get them out of their houses. While spiders have an important role in the ecosystem, we understand the desire to get rid of spiders. Our guide will help you know what to do to keep your home spider-free!

Are There Dangerous Spiders in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, there are two venomous spider species you should watch out for: the brown recluse and the black widow. These two spiders are known for their painful bite that can cause various health issues. While their bites rarely lead to death, these spiders should be avoided completely and handled by a professional.

Brown recluses are known for their light brown coloring and their famous violin marking, earning them the nickname “the fiddler spider.” They’re about the size of a quarter, and their bite can cause bruising, blisters, pain, fever, and even necrosis of the skin. Luckily, they live up to their name and tend not to bother humans. Also, it is rare for you to come across a brown recluse in North Carolina, as they’re not native to the area. If you want to know how to get rid of brown recluse spiders, there are some options such as traps or sprays, but they are best left to a professional to avoid their bite.

Black widows, as their name suggests, are black in color but have a bright red hourglass mark on their abdomen. These spiders are a bit smaller, about the size of a penny. The female spider is the one who will have this coloring and is known for her venom—male black widows are much smaller and aren’t a danger to humans. If you are bitten by a female black widow, you can experience severe muscle pain, cramping, stiffness, and spasms. Cellulitis is a risk with black widows as well as fevers and trouble breathing. Like brown recluses, there are ways you can get rid of black widow spiders, but it may be best to call in a professional.

It’s important to note that it’s not uncommon for a bacterial infection to be mistaken as one of these spider bites, so a true spider bite is more rare than you may think. Regardless, if you notice any redness and pain on your skin, it’s best to go to a doctor either way. Some antibiotics and keeping the area clean will help solve the problem, regardless of its source.

5 Ways to Get Rid of Spiders

If you’re just dealing with normal spiders, there are several ways you can get rid of them. Keep in mind while not all spiders are as venomous as brown recluses and black widows, they may still bite when they feel threatened. So proceed with caution when dealing with spiders or cleaning in dark, hidden areas.

1. Sprays, Repellents, & Traps

One of the best options to get rid of spiders is sprays. These are advantageous because they allow you to get rid of the pest without getting too close to it. You can find sprays at a local hardware store, and some will state that they are for spiders specifically. Keep in mind that sprays can be filled with harmful chemicals, so make sure you find one that’s safe for you, your family, and your pets before you spray it in your home.

If you know there are spiders in your home but can’t seem to catch them, traps may also be a good option. Sticky traps are one of the most common but aren’t the most humane option. Some bait or humane traps also exist if you’d prefer a quick or eco-friendly option.

Some sprays or materials also work as a deterrent. By covering the entrances of your home, you can keep wandering spiders from finding their way inside.

2. Natural Deterrents

If you don’t want to use or bring chemicals into your home, there are natural ways to deter and get rid of spider invaders. Diatomaceous earth is a popular option to use around the exterior of your home, as it wears down their exoskeleton and kills them before they can get inside. On the other hand, spiders are averse to certain scents like peppermint oil and vinegar. Spraying these scents around your home or in your indoor plants can help keep spiders far away.

3. Cup & Paper

If you’re face to face with a spider and are feeling brave, there is a way to get rid of the spider without killing it at all—the classic cup and paper method. This method includes using a sturdy, usually clear, cup to entrap the spider. Once the spider is inside, slide a piece of paper or thin cardboard under the cup to seal it. Once the spider is secure inside the sealed cup, you can release the spider outside or in your garage to keep it from bothering you in your house.

4. Ongoing Prevention

Like any other bug, spiders are attracted to your home for food, shelter, and water. By taking simple preventative measures, you can make your home a less enjoyable habitat for spiders. Some ways to prevent spiders include:

• Vacuum and dust regularly, especially if you see cobwebs.
• Keep food sources stored away and seal them to prevent other pests (spiders’ food sources) from coming into your home.
• Declutter spaces, especially in dark enclosed areas like closets.
• Seal any cracks or holes in your walls, doors, or window screens.
• Keep up with landscaping and avoid bushes or trees being right near your home.
• Consider adding a furry friend to your home.

5. Recurring Pest Control

The best way to protect your home from any pest is by investing in recurring pest control. At Clint Miller, we often treat homes for spiders on a regular basis. Spiders are a common fear, and many people don’t want to face something that freaks them out. That’s why we offer regular spider control. Furthermore, there are several benefits to recurring pest control, even beyond keeping spiders away. If you’re interested in seeing the benefits of recurring pest control, read our article on the topic here!

Are All Spiders Bad?

No, not all spiders are bad. In fact, many spiders, especially house spiders, are good! In some cases, spiders are domesticated just like house cats or dogs and cannot survive well outside. Many house spiders may even die if you catch and release them outside.

While we’re not encouraging you to bring spiders into your home or let an infestation happen, if you stumble across the occasional house spider, it may be beneficial to allow them to stay and provide free pest control for you. Remember, they’re more scared of you!

Enjoy a Spider-Free Space with Clint Miller Exterminating

If you’re not a fan of these eight-legged pests, we can help you have peace of mind without their presence. Our team specializes in getting rid of spiders, along with other common North Carolina pests. Whether you need emergency treatment or are interested in our recurring pest control plans, Clint Miller Exterminating is here to keep your home spider-free!