Discovering a spider in your car can be an unsettling experience. While most spiders are harmless, finding one in the confined space of your vehicle may cause some alarm. The good news is that spiders in cars are usually incidental and not indicative of an infestation. With some simple steps, you can remove the eight-legged hitchhiker and ease your worries.
Page Contents
Assess the Situation
When you spot a spider in your car, the first step is to assess the situation calmly. Take note of where the spider is located and identify it if you can. This will help determine if it is a potentially dangerous variety. Some spiders you may encounter in vehicles include:
- Jumping spiders – Small, hairy spiders that tend to hop or jump rather than build webs. Most are harmless to humans.
- Orb weavers – Spiders that spin large, circular web “wheels” to catch prey. Not aggressive.
- Cellar spiders – Long-legged spiders that build messy looking webs in corners of the car interior. Also harmless.
- Tarantulas – Large, hairy spiders that sometimes sneak into cars in warmer climates. Bites are painful but rarely dangerous.
- Widow spiders – Venomous spiders with potentially dangerous bites rarely found in cars.
If the spider appears harmless, proceed with care and avoid abrupt movements that may startle it. If it looks potentially dangerous, like a black widow, use extra caution or contact a professional for removal.
Remove the Spider
Once you’ve assessed that the spider doesn’t pose an immediate threat, you can proceed to remove it from your car. Here are some effective options:
Use an Object to Scoop It Out
For spiders located on flat surfaces like seats or the floor, you may be able to gently scoop it up with a stiff object. Cardboard, a folder, or a cup can work well. Simply place the object around the spider, trapping it against the surface. Then carry the spider outside and release it away from the car.
Use a Jar or Cup to Trap It
For spiders on vertical surfaces like door panels or windows, use a plastic cup or jar to trap them instead. Place the opening over the spider, trapping it against the surface. Slide a piece of cardstock or stiff paper between the container and car surface to keep the spider contained. Then carry the trapped spider outdoors and release.
Use a Vacuum
A vacuum with a hose attachment can also be an effective spider removal tool. Simply place the hose opening near the spider and suck it up, being careful not to make contact. The suction should pull the spider into the vacuum. Afterwards, empty the vacuum outdoors to release the unharmed spider.
Use Gloves or Tools
For particularly large or stubborn spiders that won’t cooperate, you may need to remove them manually. Wear thick gloves and use tools like pliers or tongs to safely grab and transfer the spider outdoors without harming it.
Regardless of the method, be sure to thoroughly check the surrounding area to ensure no egg sacs get left behind. Spider egg sacs will contain hundreds of tiny spiderlings!
Clean Your Car
Once the immediate spider has been removed, take time to clean your car thoroughly. This will help discourage other spiders from taking up residence.
Vacuum and Shake Out
Use your vacuum to clean every crevice and surface, including under seats. Pay close attention to corners and crevices where spiders may lurk. Give floor mats a vigorous shake outside to dislodge any eggs or additional spiders.
Clean With Disinfectant
Wipe down the interior surfaces with a disinfectant cleaner. Products with mint, citrus, or vinegar can repel spiders with their strong scents. Pay special attention to common spider hiding spots.
Seal Points of Entry
Check under seats and in the trunk for any potential points of entry where spiders could sneak in. Seal these up with caulk or tape to prevent future access.
Use Essential Oils
Spiders dislike certain strong essential oils like peppermint, tea tree, lavender and citrus. Mix a few drops into water in a spray bottle and mist around the interior to deter spiders.
Prevent Future Infestations
While finding the occasional spider inside your car is normal, recurring or widespread infestations require additional preventative action:
Park in Sunny Spots
Park your car in direct sunlight when possible. Spiders avoid the heat and bright light. Shake out items stored in your car before bringing them indoors.
Check Undercarriage
Periodically inspect the underside of your vehicle. Spiderwebs attached to the undercarriage can contain egg sacs. Knock them loose with a broom or hose.
Use Repellents & Sealants
Apply natural spider repellents like diatomaceous earth or essential oils around your car and garage. Caulk cracks and crevices spiders could use to access your car.
Get Pest Control
For persistent spider problems, contact a pest control professional. They can apply longer-lasting treatments and seal vulnerable access points.
Keep Interior Clean
Don’t allow trash or clutter to accumulate inside your vehicle. Clean up crumbs, remove paper wrappers, and vacuum frequently to discourage spiders.
When to Call for Help
While most common spiders are harmless, in some cases it’s best to let professionals handle the removal:
- You can’t identify the spider species.
- It appears to be venomous like a black widow.
- There are multiple spiders or visible egg sacs.
- The spiders keep returning and infesting your car.
Pest control technicians have specialized tools, protective equipment and spider treatment chemicals to handle infestations. They can also properly identify dangerous species and prevent venomous spider bites.
Summary Tips
- Stay calm and identify the spider if you can when you first spot it.
- Use an object, cup or vacuum to gently remove the spider.
- Clean and disinfect your car interior thoroughly afterwards.
- Seal any possible access points spiders could use.
- Use natural oils and park strategically to deter future spiders.
- Call pest control for help with infestations or dangerous spiders.
Conclusion
Discovering a spider inside your vehicle can certainly be disconcerting. However, a single spider is no cause for alarm and can be easily removed or redirected back outside. With vigilance and prevention, you can avoid sharing your car space with these eight-legged hitchhikers.
Focus on identifying the unwanted guest, gently removing it, thoroughly cleaning your car, sealing cracks and crevices, and using natural deterrents. Park smartly, check for webs/eggs, and call in pest control professionals if an infestation occurs. Stay calm, use caution, and take action to keep your car a spider-free zone.