How to Get Rid of Spiders

Updated 2026-06-07

Most spiders are harmless and actually eat other pests — but black widow and brown recluse bites are a real concern, and nobody wants webs in every corner. The key insight: spiders go where their food is, so the most effective long-term fix is reducing the insects they hunt. Combine that with web removal, sealing and glue traps in the spots spiders favor, and you’ll see far fewer.

1. Reduce their food (the real fix)

Spiders follow prey, so controlling other insects is what actually reduces spiders over time. Turn off unnecessary outdoor lights (they draw the bugs spiders eat, or switch to yellow “bug” bulbs), and deal with flies, ants and other insects indoors.

2. Remove webs and egg sacs

Vacuum webs, corners, ceilings, under furniture, window frames, the garage and basement. Removing egg sacs is important — each one prevents a future batch of spiderlings.

3. Use glue traps in harborage areas

Flat sticky traps placed in garages, basements, closets and behind furniture catch wandering spiders — including black widows, brown recluse and hobo spiders — and show you where the activity is concentrated.

4. Seal entry points

Caulk gaps around doors, windows and pipes, add door sweeps, and repair torn screens. Fewer ways in means fewer spiders to deal with indoors.

5. Know the dangerous ones

Black widows are shiny black with a red hourglass; brown recluse have a violin-shaped marking. Both favor garages, woodpiles, storage boxes and undisturbed corners. If you confirm them indoors, treat those harborage areas carefully — and consider a pro if there are several.

Prevent them coming back

Declutter storage (fewer hiding spots), keep woodpiles and debris away from the house, and stay on top of the insects spiders feed on — the durable way to keep spider numbers down.

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Frequently asked questions

What keeps spiders away?

Reducing their food (other insects), removing webs and egg sacs, sealing entry points, and cutting outdoor lighting that attracts prey. That combination works better than any single spray.

Do ultrasonic repellers or essential oils get rid of spiders?

Ultrasonic devices have no good evidence behind them, and essential oils have only a weak, short-lived effect. Web removal, glue traps and insect control are what actually help.

Are house spiders dangerous?

The vast majority are harmless and even helpful. The exceptions to watch for are black widows and brown recluse — learn their markings and treat their hiding spots with care.

Why do I suddenly have so many spiders in fall?

Fall is mating season for many species, so males wander indoors looking for females. Sealing gaps and reducing indoor insects helps through that period.