Step 1 - Reduce prey
Spiders are predators; their population is bound by prey availability. Reduce indoor insect populations (flies, moths, mosquitoes) by sealing gaps, repairing screens, and minimizing outdoor lighting near entries.
Step 2 - Eliminate harborage
Remove webs weekly with a vacuum or duster - this also removes egg sacs. Declutter basements, garages, and closets. Move stored items into sealed plastic bins.
Step 3 - Exclusion
Seal gaps around utility penetrations, weatherstrip doors, and screen vents. Install door sweeps. These structural changes have a longer-lasting impact than perimeter sprays.
On pesticide use
Most over-the-counter perimeter sprays have limited efficacy against spiders because spiders walk on the tips of their tarsi and absorb little residue. Targeted treatment is best performed by a licensed professional after non-chemical measures.
References
- [1]Managing Spiders in and Around the Home - University of California IPM. Accessed June 2026.
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