Having spiders in your basement can be an annoying and creepy problem. While not all spiders are dangerous, no one really wants their basement to become a spider haven. Luckily, there are some simple and effective ways to help keep spiders out of basements.
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Why are there spiders in my basement?
There are a few main reasons spiders may find their way into basement spaces:
- Dark, damp, undisturbed areas are attractive to spiders looking to build webs and nests.
- Basements often have cracks, holes, or openings that allow spiders to get inside.
- Insects and other prey that spiders eat, like crickets and ants, may also get into basements.
- Some spiders may wander in accidentally from outside.
Understanding why spiders end up in basements can help guide tactics to make these spaces less inviting to them.
Keep spiders out by sealing entry points
One of the key strategies for controlling basement spiders is sealing up any possible entrances from the outside. Some main entry points to look for include:
- Cracks in the foundation
- Gaps around windows and doors
- Openings around pipes, wires, vents, and utilities
- Holes in screens
- Spaces around sump pumps
Use caulk, sealant, weather stripping, or other materials to seal these spots shut. This helps block spiders from being able to find a way inside in the first place. Pay special attention to corners, edges, and areas where different construction materials meet up.
Trim vegetation outside
Trimming back branches, bushes, and vegetation touching the house exterior can also minimize spiders’ access points into a basement. This gives spiders fewer pathways inside.
Repair damaged screens
Check window and vent screens in the basement for any rips, holes, gaps, or other damage. Use screen patch kits or replace damaged screens as needed to close off these potential spider entryways.
Reduce clutter and storage to decrease appeal
Spiders are drawn to undisturbed, infrequently used areas to spin webs and build nests. All the clutter, boxes, and piles stored in many basements provide the perfect habitat for them.
Get rid of debris like firewood, rocks, and building scraps spiders could hide behind. Organize storage containers and shelves so there are fewer dark spaces to tuck away in. Consider moving some items to another area or storage unit to open the basement up more.
Regularly clearing cobwebs also gets rid of spiders’ work and makes basements less welcoming. Vacuuming, sweeping, or using a broom to remove webs every couple weeks helps keep populations down.
Reduce humidity and moisture
Spiders and insects thrive in damp conditions. Use dehumidifiers and fans to keep basement air drier. Fix any leaks or water intrusion issues. Make sure gutters direct water away from the house’s foundation.
Use pest control methods
In addition to maintenance and cleaning tactics, pest control methods can help remove current spiders and discourage new ones from taking up residence in a basement. Some DIY options to try include:
Diatomaceous earth
Diatomaceous earth is a powder made from crushed fossils of aquatic organisms. The tiny sharp particles can cut through spiders’ outer coverings, causing dehydration. Spread diatomaceous earth in corners, along walls, and anywhere spiders could enter.
Essential oils
Some research indicates essential oils like peppermint, citrus, tea tree, and eucalyptus may repel spiders. Use cotton balls soaked in these oils around potential spider access points.
Sticky traps
Low-toxic sticky traps catch wandering spiders in basements. Place these traps along walls, in corners, or wherever spiders seem most active.
Insect growth regulator products
IGR products like gentrol disrupt spiders’ growth and reproduction. Apply these products where spiders may enter and harbor.
Vacuuming
Use a vacuum hose attachment to suck up spiders and egg sacs. This also removes webs to eliminate their shelter and food sources.
Natural spider predators
Releasing natural spider predator insects like centipedes, mites, and wasps can control populations. However, introduce these carefully to avoid infestations of the predatory insects as well.
Keep basements clean and dry
Maintaining basement environments that are cleaner and drier makes them far less appealing to invading spiders in the long run. Follow these housekeeping best practices:
- Get rid of clutter like boxes, debris, and unused furniture.
- Store items in sealed plastic containers to minimize dark hiding spots.
- Clean and vacuum regularly.
- Fix any moisture issues and use dehumidifiers to control humidity.
- Make sure vents and utilities have proper air flow and circulation.
Discouraging other bugs spiders prey on through good sanitation also prompts spiders to look elsewhere for food.
Use pest control professionals when needed
For severe spider infestations, or if self-treatment methods have not been effective, contacting professional pest control may be warranted. An exterminator can:
- Inspect for points of entry and make recommendations for sealing access.
- Use commercial-grade insecticides and spider treatments.
- Reach problem areas like inside walls or under appliances that are hard to treat.
- Provide preventative spider treatments and monitoring.
Getting an expert assessment and plan for keeping basement spiders at bay can provide longer-lasting relief in difficult cases.
Protect against spider bites
While most common house spiders are not considered particularly dangerous, spider bites can occur. The black widow and brown recluse spiders are two venomous species potentially found in basements. Bite symptoms range from minor skin irritation to severe reactions requiring medical treatment.
Wear gloves, long sleeves, pants, and shoes when cleaning basements and disturbing areas where spiders may reside. Inspect boxes and items before touching them with bare hands. Seek medical care if any bite occurs and you experience concerning symptoms like pain, swelling, fever, or muscle cramps.
Conclusion
Unwanted spiders creeping around the basement is a common challenge for many homeowners. Luckily, there are several effective do-it-yourself remedies and prevention strategies. Focus on sealing external entry points, reducing clutter and moisture, and using pest control methods. With diligent, ongoing effort, you can successfully evict your basement’s spider tenants and enjoy this space again.