The Uninvited Eight-Legged Guests
You’re relaxing at home, and suddenly, a spider scurries across the wall or drops from the ceiling. Whether it’s a harmless daddy long-legs or something more intimidating like a black widow, having spiders in the house can be unsettling. While most spiders pose no real threat to humans, their presence is rarely welcome.
At Southwood Pest Control, we understand that even the sight of a spider can cause anxiety. Based in Anaheim and serving the broader Orange County region, we’ve spent over 50 years helping homeowners keep their spaces spider-free. Whether you want natural remedies or professional treatments, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the most effective strategies to get rid of spiders in the house—and keep them out for good.
Let’s take a closer look at what attracts spiders and how to eliminate them from your home.
Common Types of Spiders in Southern California
House Spiders
These are typically small, brown, or gray spiders that spin webs in corners and on ceilings. While harmless, their webs can quickly accumulate, making your home feel cluttered.
Black Widows
Recognizable by their shiny black bodies and red hourglass markings, black widows are venomous and commonly found in garages, sheds, and basements.
Daddy Longlegs (Harvestmen)
Often mistaken for spiders, daddy longlegs are technically not true spiders. They do not produce silk or venom and are entirely harmless.
Wolf Spiders
These large, hairy spiders don’t build webs but instead hunt their prey. They’re often found in basements and crawlspaces.
Cellar Spiders
Similar to daddy longlegs but classified as true spiders, these spindly creatures create messy webs in quiet, undisturbed places.
Why Spiders Enter Your Home
Food Sources
Spiders eat insects, so if you have flies, ants, or other bugs in your home, spiders will follow.
Shelter
They seek out dark, undisturbed areas, such as closets, attics, basements, and behind furniture.
Seasonal Changes
Spiders are more likely to enter your home during colder months or dry spells when they’re looking for warmth and moisture.
How to Get Rid of Spiders in the House Naturally
- Declutter and Clean Regularly
Spiders love clutter. Remove piles of clothes, boxes, and old newspapers where they can hide. Dust and vacuum regularly—especially in corners, under furniture, and along baseboards—to remove webs and egg sacs. - Seal Entry Points
Use caulk to seal gaps in windows, doors, and baseboards. Install door sweeps and repair torn window screens. Even the tiniest crack can serve as a doorway for spiders. - Use Natural Repellents
Spiders dislike strong scents, such as peppermint, vinegar, and citrus. Try these DIY repellents:
- Mix peppermint essential oil with water and spray it around doors, windows, and baseboards.
- Spray a mixture of white vinegar and water along spider-prone areas.
- Place citrus peels on windowsills and in corners.
- Turn Off Outdoor Lights
Exterior lighting attracts insects, which in turn attracts spiders. Switch to yellow “bug lights” or use motion-sensor lights to reduce insect and spider traffic. - Install Screens and Weather Stripping
Properly fitted screens and weather stripping help keep spiders and other pests from sneaking in through tiny gaps. - Use Diatomaceous Earth
Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth in cracks and crevices to help control pests. It’s a non-toxic powder that damages spiders’ exoskeletons and dehydrates them. - Remove Webs
Use a vacuum cleaner or long-handled duster to remove webs as soon as you spot them. Frequent cleaning discourages spiders from sticking around.
DIY vs. Professional Spider Control
Why DIY Works (Sometimes)
Natural methods can be highly effective for preventing and reducing the spider population in your home. However, they may not eliminate a spider problem if it’s deeply rooted or if venomous spiders are present.
Limitations of DIY
- Doesn’t reach hidden nests or egg sacs
- May not eliminate the source of the problem (e.g., insects that attract spiders)
- Can require frequent reapplication of natural repellents
When to Call Southwood Pest Control
If you’ve tried everything and spiders keep showing up—or if you spot venomous species like black widows—it’s time for professional help.
Why Choose Southwood Pest Control
Over 50 Years of Experience
We’ve seen it all—from small infestations to homes overrun by spiders and other pests. Our expert technicians are familiar with the habits and hiding spots of every local spider species.
Customized Treatment Plans
We don’t do one-size-fits-all. Your home gets a customized plan based on its layout, spider activity, and your comfort level with treatment options.
Eco-Friendly Options
We offer green pest control methods using reduced-toxicity products that are safe for kids, pets, and the environment.
Thorough Inspections
We’ll inspect attics, basements, garages, crawl spaces, and other potential entry points to identify areas where pests may nest.
Ongoing Prevention
We provide tips and follow-up visits to keep your home spider-free long after the initial treatment.
Satisfaction Guarantee
If spiders return during your service period, we’ll return at no extra charge.
What to Expect During a Spider Control Visit
Step 1: Free Inspection
We’ll assess the problem and identify the type and extent of the spider activity.
Step 2: Treatment Plan
Based on the inspection, we may recommend:
- Targeted spraying in baseboards, corners, and storage areas
- Sealing entry points and fixing structural vulnerabilities
- Removing webs and nests
- Treating exterior walls, garages, and crawlspaces
Step 3: Follow-Up
We’ll schedule additional visits if needed and provide you with long-term prevention tips tailored to your home.
Preventing Future Spider Infestations
- Keep your home free of clutter and dust.
- Store shoes, gloves, and clothing in sealed bins or bags.
- Fix leaky pipes and reduce humidity, especially in basements.
- Keep outdoor vegetation trimmed and away from the house.
- Don’t leave pet food or open trash cans exposed.
By maintaining these habits, you reduce the chances of spiders returning.
Get Rid of Spiders in the House for Good
You don’t have to live with spiders. Whether you’re looking for natural repellents, household tips, or professional pest control services, there are effective ways to get rid of spiders in the house and prevent their return.
At Southwood Pest Control, we’re committed to helping you feel safe and comfortable in your home. Our knowledgeable team offers fast, reliable, and eco-friendly spider control services with proven results.
Don’t let eight-legged creatures take over your living space. Call Southwood Pest Control at (800) 780-7773 or visit our website to schedule your free inspection today!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What’s the best natural way to get rid of spiders in the house?
Peppermint oil spray, vinegar-water solutions, and maintaining a clean and clutter-free home are some of the most effective natural methods. However, results may vary depending on the type and extent of infestation. - Are spiders dangerous to have in my house?
Most household spiders are harmless and even helpful in controlling other insects. However, venomous species like black widows should be treated as a serious concern and removed professionally. - How long does a professional spider treatment last?
Depending on your environment and home layout, professional spider control can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Follow-up visits and preventative tips help extend its effectiveness.
