Spiders can be really scary, especially when they are crawling around your house. Here are some tips on how to get rid of spiders in your basement.
Up to 3-15% of the population fears spiders. Bugs and other creepy crawlies are a natural part of our ecosystem, but that doesn’t mean you have to be okay with them. Spiders are the most common and most feared basement dwellers.
Most are harmless, but certain species can be deadly, and no one wants to go down to a basement full of cobwebs anyway. If you want to know how to get rid of spiders in your basement, read on. Here are some effective tips for getting rid of spiders.
Gear Up
Before you set off to deal with a spider problem, it’s crucial to wear the right clothing. Some types of spiders can be deadly to people, including the wolf spider, funnel-web spider, and the infamous brown recluse. Even if you’re dealing with a regular house spider, you don’t want them creeping up your arms.
Wear long sleeves and pants. Tuck the ends into a pair of gloves and boots. Use tape to secure the cuffs for extra measure.
Use Spider Traps
Spiders are shy and reclusive and will rarely reveal themselves to a human. Take note of signs of spiders, like cobwebs, egg sacks, or molts. Spiders can also leave droppings that look like black paint splatters.
Once you’ve identified harborage areas, set up some sticky traps. Sticky glue traps will catch spiders, containing them until you can throw them away.
Clean Up Your Basement
40% of homeowners use their basements as storage. Many more forget about their basements and the junk they’re hiding in them. This makes it the perfect nesting place for spiders.
Spiders love to hide in dark and damp spaces. If you can’t remember the last time you cleaned your basement, now is your sign to do so. Keep your basement clean so spiders don’t get the chance to establish their homes.
Fix Cracks and Crevices
The best way to prevent spiders once and for all is to prevent them from getting inside your home. Spiders enter the house through small cracks and holes in the walls or ceilings. Take a look at your basement and repair any crevices.
It would also help to install door sweeps on all doors leading to the outside. This will prevent not only spiders but also other pests like cockroaches.
Use Essential Oil
Essential oils have a strong odor that can deter or scare away spiders inside your home. Peppermint oil is the most popular scent used to repel insects. Apply a few drops along the corners of your basement, or use an oil diffuser.
Hire a Pest Control Professional
If all else fails, consider hiring a pest control company. Companies like Pest Remedy specialize in removing insects safely and efficiently. Learn more about Pest Remedy here.
How to Get Rid of Spiders in Your Basement
Now you know how to get rid of spiders in your basement. While most spiders are harmless, it’s always best to use proper safety precautions.
If you’re struggling with a pest problem, don’t stop here. Check out our other blog posts for more pest control tips.