House Spiders

What do house spiders look like?

The term "house spider" can be a bit misleading, as it refers to a wide variety of spiders that find their way into our homes. However, only one species officially carries the name Achaearanea tepidariorum.

Males are about 1/8 to 3/8 inch long, with long, slender abdomens. Females are slightly larger, ranging from 3/16 to 5/16 inch long, with more rounded, spherical abdomens.

You can easily spot house spiders by these features:

• A teardrop shape when viewed from above
• A bulbous appearance from the side
• Banding on their legs
• A mottled brown and yellow body (though this can vary)
• Light-threaded, tangled webs

If you need help identifying a spider in your home, don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help!

Do house spiders bite?

Yes, house spiders do have fangs and can bite. Fortunately, their bites are usually mild—unless you're sensitive to their venom. The bite typically causes a small, itchy, red bump but nothing more severe.

Are house spiders harmful?

While many pests can be harmful, house spiders don’t pose much risk. Here’s a closer look:

• Do they spread germs? No. Unlike some pests that crawl through dirty places, house spiders don’t feed on decaying organic matter, so they don’t spread germs like salmonella or E. coli.
• Do they carry diseases? House spiders don’t transmit diseases. Unlike ticks or mosquitoes, they don’t harbor human pathogens, so their bites aren’t associated with disease transmission.
• Do they damage property? No. House spiders don’t damage structures as they move through your home. They take advantage of cracks and gaps that are already there. Sealing up entry points can help keep them at bay.

How do house spiders get inside my home?

House spiders can find their way into homes through various entry points, from the ground up to the roof. Common entryways include:

• Damaged weatherstripping
• Worn door sweeps
• Rotted door frames or sole plates
• Gaps around windows
• Unsealed plumbing
• Cracked window panes
• Damaged screens
• Unprotected vents

House spiders may also hitch rides on secondhand furniture or other items, so always check for spiders or webs before bringing items inside.

Where do house spiders live indoors?

House spiders prefer hiding in wall, floor, and ceiling voids, where they can move in and out easily through gaps and vents. They may also create webs between window panes and screens to catch insects. You might notice these webs in corners or on ceilings, which is often the easiest way to spot their presence.

What do house spiders eat?

House spiders are skilled predators. They hunt insects like flies and ants, often building their webs in places where pests are abundant. You'll usually find them in high, quiet spots, like above trash bins, where they can catch a meal. 

How do I get rid of house spiders?

The best way to reduce house spider populations is to limit their food sources—mainly other pests. By managing your home’s pest issues, you’ll make it less attractive to spiders. To eliminate spiders and the insects that attract them, contact Four Seasons Pest Control to learn more about our home pest control services! 

How can I prevent spider infestations?

Even if you’ve cleared out an infestation, pests can return without a strong exterior defense. To prevent house spiders from entering, try these preventative measures:

• Repair screens and replace damaged ones.
• Replace worn weatherstripping and door sweeps.
• Fix any rotted door frames or gaps around windows.
• Keep trash bins away from exterior doors.
• Turn off exterior lights, which can attract insects—and, in turn, spiders.

For long-lasting relief, consider setting up a home pest control plan. Routine exterior treatments from a professional will offer you continuous protection against spiders and other pests.