What can I spray in my basement to keep spiders out?

Quick Answers

There are several effective options for spraying your basement to repel spiders and keep them from returning:

• Insecticidal sprays containing ingredients like pyrethrins, pyrethroids, or neonicotinoids
• Essential oil sprays using peppermint, tea tree, lavender, eucalyptus oils
• Diatomaceous earth dust
• Desiccant dusts like tri-die or silica aerogel

Look for products specifically labelled for spider/insect control. Focus on cracks, corners, along baseboards, around pipes and vents, and other areas spiders may hide or enter. Reapply every 1-2 weeks or after cleaning. Keep people and pets out of treated areas until dried.

Why Get Rid of Spiders in Your Basement?

There are a few good reasons to get rid of spider infestations in your basement:

Prevent Spider Bites

Most cellar spiders common in basements are harmless. But venomous spiders like black widows or brown recluses may Occasionally find their way inside. Their bites can cause mild to severe reactions, so it’s best not to take risks.

Reduce Webs & Mess

Spider webs are unsightly and difficult to clean when they accumulate in corners and crevices. Cobwebs trapping dust and dead insects can also make a basement look dirty and feel unclean.

Limit Bug Problems

Where there are spiders, there are usually bugs too. Controlling spiders means fewer other insects like cockroaches or silverfish that can damage stored items.

Allergy Relief

Spider and web debris can aggravate allergies and asthma for sensitive individuals if inhaled. Reducing spiders improves air quality.

Peace of Mind

Many people simply feel uncomfortable with spiders and don’t like finding them in their living space. spider sprays provide a sense of relief.

Does Spraying Basement Get Rid of All Spiders?

Using a dedicated spider control spray can significantly reduce spider populations in your basement. However, it likely won’t eliminate every single one permanently.

Here’s why sprays are not 100% effective:

• Hard to reach all hiding spots – spiders can tuck themselves into cracks and void spaces.
• Eggs may survive – spider egg sacs are often resistant to sprays.
• Spiders migrate indoors – they can find ways to enter from outside.
• Sprays lose potency over time – require reapplication every 7-14 days.

For best results, combine spraying with sealing entry points, removing clutter, dehumidifying, and vacuuming regularly. Accept that occasional spiders may appear and simply re-spray as needed.

8 Best Spider Sprays for Basements

Here are some of the most effective retail products for spraying basements to control spiders:

1. Ortho Home Defense MAX Insect Killer

– Active ingredient: Bifenthrin
– Kills on contact and provides residual control
– Also controls ants, roaches, silverfish, stink bugs, and other pests
– Water-based formula won’t stain
– Available as a spray or aerosol

2. Raid Ant & Roach Killer

– Active ingredients: Lambda-cyhalothrin, Prallethrin
– Rapid knockdown and up to 16 week residual
– Kills spiders plus ants, roaches, scorpions, and more
– Non-staining oil formula
– Apply with sprayer or inject into cracks/crevices

3. Eco Defense Organic Spider Killer

– Active ingredient: Peppermint oil, 2-Phenethyl propionate
– Botanical insecticide made from essential oils
– Safe for use around children and pets when dry
– Naturally repels spiders and deters return
– Pleasant mint scent

4. Safer Brand Home Pest Control

– Active ingredients: Peppermint oil, rosemary oil, thyme oil
– Made with food-grade essential oils
– Kills and repels spiders, ants, cockroaches, silverfish, earwigs
– For indoor or outdoor use
– Available as a spray or dust

5. Hot Shot Ultra Liquid Spider & Scorpion Killer

– Active ingredients: Lambda-cyhalothrin, Prallethrin
– Kills spiders and scorpions on contact
– Up to 12 months residual control indoors
– Foaming spray allows precision targeting
– Invisible residues won’t stain or leave oily film

6. EcoVenger Spider Killer Spray

– Active ingredient: d-Limonene
– Made from citrus oil extract
– Kills spiders on contact and keeps them out
– Also repels ants, roaches, fleas, and other insects
– Pleasant orange scent

7. Wondercide Natural Spider Control

– Active ingredient: Cedar oil
– Made from Texas cedar tree extract
– Kills and repels spiders for up to 4 weeks
– Safe to use around children and pets
– Available as spray or wipe-on solution

8. Prentox Pyrethrin Household Insecticide

– Active ingredients: Pyrethrins, Piperonyl Butoxide
– Botanical insecticide derived from chrysanthemums
– Quick knockdown and kill of spiders, ants, roaches, fleas
– Low odor and non-staining
– Use indoors and outdoors

How to Apply Spider Sprays in Basement

To maximize effectiveness, use these tips when applying basement spider sprays:

Timing

– Treat in evenings when spiders are active and exposed
– Reapply every 1-2 weeks
– Increase frequency during spring when spiders are most active

Location

– Target areas where spiders are seen or suspected
– Focus on corners, along walls, under appliances, around pipes and vents
– Spray crack and crevices they hide in
– Treat perimeter areas, window wells, and foundation exterior

Application

– Lightly coat targeted areas, avoiding excessive wetting or runoff
– Aim sprays directly into cracks and void spaces
– Use dusters or injectors to reach into hidden spots
– Ensure thorough and even coverage
– Follow product label directions carefully

Preparation

– Remove debris like webs, egg sacs, dead insects
– Vacuum and clean surfaces before spraying
– Remove or cover any food, dishes, and food preparation surfaces
– Ensure all people and pets are out of areas being sprayed

When to Call a Pest Control Professional

For severe spider infestations or difficult to control issues, it may be best to hire a professional exterminator. Consider professional help if:

– You continually see large numbers of spiders
– Bites from venomous spiders occur
– You have spider allergy sensitivities
– The basement is cluttered with hiding spots
– You cannot locate or reach where they originate
– Home remedies and sprays have not worked

Professionals have industrial strength pesticides and specialized equipment. They know where to target spray, best application methods, and proper clean up.

Prevention Tips

Along with control sprays, try these proactive measures to help keep spiders out of your basement:

• Install tight fitting door sweeps and screens on windows
• Caulk and seal cracks, holes, and other entry points
• Reduce clutter like boxes that provide hiding spots
• Change light bulbs to less attractive yellow spectrum
• Use a dehumidifier to lower humidity under 50%
• Vacuum regularly to remove webs and egg sacs
• Ensure proper ventilation and air circulation

Making the basement less inviting will discourage spiders from taking up residence. But expect you will need periodic spraying to keep them under control.

Natural Repellents

For those wishing to avoid chemical sprays, some common household products can help repel spiders:

Essential Oils

– Peppermint, tea tree, citrus, eucalyptus – use spray or diffuser

Vinegar

– Light vinegar mist, concentrated in cracks

Diatomaceous Earth

– Powder along baseboards, window sills, and entry points

Borax

– Sprinkle around foundation and into wall voids

Horse Chestnut Extract

– Natural spider repellent – soak cotton balls and place strategically

Dried Bay Leaves

– Strong scent deters spiders – tuck leaves into cracks

However, these solutions may be less effective than formulated sprays. Reapply frequently for best results.

Conclusion

Getting rid of spiders in your basement requires diligence. Be prepared to spray regularly during spring and summer using an effective product containing pyrethrins, pyrethroids, essential oils, or other active ingredients. Target areas where spiders lurk, apply thoroughly, and follow all label precautions.

Along with spraying, eliminate entry points, reduce clutter, and make the basement less hospitable. Natural repellents can provide added spider deterrence. But pesticide sprays will likely offer the strongest and longest lasting control when applied correctly. Implementing a comprehensive integrated pest management plan will help minimize spiders and their unsightly webs in basements.