Cellar spiders are a common sight in many homes, especially in basements, garages, and other quiet spaces. While they’re mostly harmless, their long legs and cobwebs can make them unwelcome guests. If you’re tired of sharing your home with these spiders, this guide will help you understand why they’re there, how to get rid of them for good, and whether they’re dangerous.
Why Are Cellar Spiders in My House?
Cellar spiders, also known as daddy longlegs, prefer certain conditions that make your home attractive to them. Here are the main reasons they might be living with you:
1. Shelter:
- Cellar spiders thrive in dark, quiet, and undisturbed places.
- Basements, crawl spaces, and closets are perfect spots for them to spin their webs.
2. Food Sources:
- They feed on other insects and even other spiders.
- If you have a pest problem, cellar spiders might move in to take advantage of the food supply.
3. Humidity:
- These spiders prefer damp areas.
- High humidity in basements, bathrooms, or laundry rooms can attract them.
4. Seasonal Behavior:
- During colder months, cellar spiders may come indoors to escape the weather.
Key Tip: Reducing clutter and fixing moisture problems can make your home less appealing to cellar spiders.
How Do I Get Rid of Cellar Spiders Permanently?
Getting rid of cellar spiders doesn’t have to be difficult. Follow these steps to remove them and keep them from coming back:
1. Remove Existing Spiders and Webs:
- Use a vacuum cleaner to suck up spiders, webs, and egg sacs.
- Dispose of the vacuum bag or contents immediately to prevent re-infestation.
- Use a broom or duster for hard-to-reach areas.
2. Seal Entry Points:
- Inspect your home for cracks, gaps, or holes where spiders might enter.
- Use caulk or weather stripping to seal openings around windows, doors, and vents.
- Install screens on windows and repair any torn ones.
3. Reduce Clutter:
- Spiders love hiding in boxes, piles of clothing, and other clutter.
- Organize and clean storage areas regularly.
4. Address Moisture Problems:
- Fix leaky pipes, faucets, or drains that create damp conditions.
- Use a dehumidifier to reduce humidity in basements or other damp areas.
5. Use Natural Repellents:
- Vinegar: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water, and spray it in areas where spiders are common.
- Essential oils: Peppermint, tea tree, or citrus oils can deter spiders. Mix a few drops with water and spray around your home.
6. Set Traps:
- Sticky traps can catch cellar spiders and other pests.
- Place them in corners, near baseboards, and other areas where spiders are likely to roam.
7. Hire a Professional:
- If you have a serious infestation, call a pest control expert.
- They can treat your home with safe, effective solutions.
Can a Cellar Spider Bite You?
Many people are afraid of spiders because of the potential for bites. But what about cellar spiders?
1. Do They Bite Humans?
- Cellar spiders are not aggressive and rarely bite humans.
- They’re more likely to retreat than attack if disturbed.
2. Are Their Bites Dangerous?
- In the rare case of a bite, cellar spiders are not harmful to humans.
- Their venom is weak and not medically significant.
- You might experience mild irritation or redness at the bite site, but that’s about it.
3. Myths About Cellar Spiders:
- There’s a common myth that cellar spiders have extremely toxic venom but can’t bite humans because their fangs are too small. This is false.
- Their fangs can penetrate human skin, but their venom poses no threat to people.
Key Takeaway: Cellar spiders are harmless and don’t pose a danger to humans or pets.
Final Thoughts
Cellar spiders might be creepy to some, but they’re not out to harm you. Understanding why they’re in your home, taking steps to remove them, and preventing their return can help you maintain a spider-free space. Remember, these spiders are actually helpful in controlling other pests, so if you can tolerate a few in out-of-the-way spots, they might even be beneficial. If not, follow this guide to reclaim your home and keep it free of unwelcome guests.
