7 Signs You Have a Spider Infestation & What to Do Next
If you ask people what their biggest fear is, many might say spiders. From horror movies to your own backyard, these creepy crawly invaders are rarely welcomed with open arms. But, even if you aren’t afraid of spiders, you won’t want them living in your home.
Spider infestations can be frustrating and stressful for everyone. But these six signs will help you catch a spider infestation before it takes over. Plus, we’ll look at what you can do once you notice these signs.
Webs Everywhere
Spiders’ favorite past-time when not exploring your home and looking for bugs is building webs. If you begin noticing webs all around your home, this could be a sign of a spider infestation. Cobwebs do build up over time, but if you’re cleaning areas of your home regularly and still noticing a constant build-up of webs, you’ll want to call the exterminator.
Spider Egg Sacs
Spiders lay their eggs in sacs, which are often made of silk. These egg sacs can be found in a variety of places, including in corners, under furniture, and in other dark and secluded areas. If you notice spider egg sacs in your home, it’s a sign that there are spiders reproducing in your space.
Live Spiders
If you see live spiders crawling around your home, it’s a clear indication that you have an infestation. While it’s common to see the occasional spider, if you see them on a regular basis, it’s a sign that there are many more hiding out of sight.
Shed Spider Skins
As spiders grow, they shed their exoskeletons. If you find small, translucent skins in your home, it’s a sign that spiders are molting and growing in your space.
Insect Prey
Spiders feed on insects, so if you’re seeing an increase in the number of insects in your home, it could be because there are more spiders catching and eating them. Insects that are commonly caught in spider webs include flies, moths, and mosquitoes.
Strange Odors
Some species of spider release pheromones that can produce a musty or urine-like odor. If you notice an unusual odor in your home, it could be a sign of a spider infestation.
What to Do If You Have a Spider Infestation
If you suspect that you have a spider infestation, it’s important to take action to address the problem. The first step is to eliminate any sources of food or shelter that may be attracting spiders to your home. This can include reducing clutter, sealing cracks and gaps in your home’s exterior, and keeping your home clean.
You can also use sticky traps or insecticides to kill spiders and prevent them from reproducing. However, it’s important to use these methods safely and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
If you have a severe spider infestation or are dealing with a venomous species, it’s best to contact a pest control professional. They can assess the extent of the infestation and recommend the best course of action to eliminate it.
In conclusion, if you notice any of the signs listed above, it’s important to take action to address a potential spider infestation. By being vigilant and taking steps to eliminate sources of shelter and food, you can prevent a small spider problem from becoming a full-blown infestation.
Prevention Tips
Spiders are fascinating creatures, but for many people, they can also be a source of fear and anxiety. While some spider species are harmless and even beneficial in controlling other insect populations, others can pose a potential threat to humans. If you’re looking to prevent a spider infestation from happening in your home, here are some light-hearted tips to keep these eight-legged critters at bay.
Keep your home clean
Spiders are attracted to clutter, so one of the simplest ways to prevent an infestation is to keep your home clean and tidy. This means vacuuming regularly, dusting surfaces, and keeping piles of clothes, papers, and other items to a minimum. By doing this, you’ll reduce potential hiding spots for spiders, making it less likely for them to settle in.
Use natural repellents
There are many natural repellents that can be used to deter spiders from entering your home. Some of the most popular include peppermint oil, vinegar, and chestnuts. Simply place these items in areas where spiders are likely to enter, and they’ll be deterred by the scent. Plus, many of these natural remedies have a pleasant aroma that can make your home smell great!
Seal up cracks and gaps
Spiders are masters of infiltration and can squeeze through even the tiniest of gaps. By sealing up any cracks and gaps in your home, you’ll make it much harder for them to get in. Use caulk or weather-stripping to seal gaps around windows and doors, and make sure that screens on windows and doors are in good condition.
Keep the lights off
Spiders are attracted to light, so keeping the lights off at night can be an effective way to prevent an infestation. If you must have lights on, use yellow or amber bulbs, which are less attractive to spiders than white or blue bulbs. Additionally, try to keep outdoor lights away from windows and doors, as this can draw spiders into your home.
Declutter your yard
Spiders can also be a problem outside of your home, so it’s important to keep your yard decluttered as well. This means removing piles of leaves, wood, and other debris that can provide a habitat for spiders. Additionally, keep your lawn mowed and your plants trimmed to reduce potential hiding spots for these creatures.
Call in the professionals
If you’re dealing with a serious spider infestation, it may be time to call in the professionals. Pest control companies can provide effective treatment options that will rid your home of spiders and other pests. Additionally, they can offer advice on preventing future infestations and provide ongoing maintenance to keep your home spider-free.
By following these tips, you can prevent a spider infestation from happening in your home. With a little effort and some natural remedies, you can keep these fascinating creatures at bay and enjoy a spider-free home. And who knows, you might even develop a newfound appreciation for spiders as you learn more about them!