6 Ways To Keep Spiders Out Of Your Home
Even though most spiders are completely harmless, many people understandably hate to see them in their house. While the occasional spider can be brought outside in a tupperware container or easily killed, frequently appearing or numerous spiders usually need to be dealt with in a more deliberate and strategic manner. Luckily, there are specific things you can do to get rid of any spiders you have and prevent them from infiltrating your home in the future. Here are six great ways to keep spiders out of your home:
Have an Exterminator Spray for Existing Spiders
If you already have a spider problem on your hands, it's best to start with a clean slate by having an exterminator like Godfather's Exterminating Inc come to your house and take care of the problem for you. They will use their expertise and specialty sprays to kill any existing spiders, including spider eggs. Most exterminators use sprays that are safe for pets and children, but be sure to ask your exterminator if this is a concern of yours.
Carefully Seal Your Home
To prevent spiders from continuing to invade your home, it's important to seal any access points that you notice. Make sure the weatherstripping around doors and windows is in good repair and replace it if necessary. Fill in any gaps underneath your doors, which may have the added bonus of lowering your energy bills. Next, take a caulking gun and fill in any cracks you see in exterior walls, around the foundation of your home, and in the basement.
Consider Getting a Cat
If you are already considering adopting a cat, the fact that they are natural predators to spiders may provide you with additional incentive. Cats love to chase and kill spiders, and just seeing that a cat is milling about may discourage spiders from sticking around. Just make sure to call an exterminator if you see any spiders that may be poisonous, as these can be dangerous for pets as well as people.
Use Peppermint Spray
Spiders are repelled by the scent of peppermint, so this can be a great natural way to keep them at bay. Simply dilute some peppermint essential oil with water in a spray bottle and spray the mixture around door frames, window sills, in corners, and anywhere you have seen spiders or spider webs. Some people have also found success with planting fresh peppermint around the perimeter of their home, or keeping potted peppermint inside the house.
Declutter Your Home
Spiders love dark hiding spaces, and the more clutter you have laying about the more attractive your home will be to them. Use this as an excuse to go on a decluttering spree, organizing your home, removing any excess stuff sitting on the floor, and tossing any old cardboard boxes into the recycling bin. If you have tons of random stuff being stored in the basement, you may want to move it to clear storage tubs with well-sealed lids.
Vacuum and Dust Weekly
By vacuuming and dusting your home on a regular basis, you will not only make your home less appealing to spiders, but you will also eliminate some of their webs and hiding spots, and possibly vacuum up some actual spiders at the same time. In addition, spider eggs are often very tiny and difficult to see, so by vacuuming you may get rid of any hiding in the carpet or in corners of your home. Don't forget to use the attachment on your vacuum to get into corners, as well as the ceiling and under furniture.
There is no reason to live with spiders in your house. By following these tips, you will soon have a home free of creepy crawlies.
