If you've noticed an increase in the number of house spiders in your home, you're not alone. Spiders are common household pests, and while they play a crucial role in controlling other insect populations, their presence can be unsettling. If you're wondering how to kill house spiders effectively and safely, you've come to the right place. In this guide, we'll explore various methods to help you get rid of spiders in your home.
Understanding House Spiders
Before we delve into spider control, it's essential to understand the types of spiders you might encounter in your home. The most common house spiders include:
- House spiders (Tidarren argo)
- Cellar spiders (Pholcus phalangioides)
- Wolf spiders (Lycosidae family)
- Jumping spiders (Salticidae family)
While some spiders, like the black widow and brown recluse, are venomous and pose a health risk, most house spiders are harmless. However, their webs and droppings can be unsightly and may trigger allergies in some people.

Preventive Measures: Creating an Uninviting Environment
Preventing spiders from entering your home is the first line of defense. Here are some preventive measures you can take:
- Seal cracks and crevices in your home's foundation, walls, and roof.
- Install weatherstripping on doors and windows to prevent gaps.
- Keep your home clean and clutter-free, as spiders love to hide in dark, undisturbed areas.
- Store firewood away from your home, as it can harbor spiders and other pests.
- Regularly remove webs from the exterior of your home to discourage spiders from nesting.
Natural and Homemade Spider Repellents
If spiders have already made themselves at home, there are several natural and homemade repellents you can use to encourage them to leave:
- Essential oils: Mix a few drops of peppermint, tea tree, or citrus essential oil with water in a spray bottle and apply it around your home. Spiders are sensitive to these scents and will typically avoid them.
- Vinegar: Wipe down surfaces with a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water to deter spiders.
- Coconut oil: Apply a thin layer of coconut oil to surfaces where spiders are present. The oil can disrupt their webs and make it difficult for them to move around.
Chemical Spider Repellents and Insecticides
If natural remedies aren't effective, you may need to consider using chemical spider repellents or insecticides. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when using these products, and keep them out of reach of children and pets.

Some popular chemical spider repellents and insecticides include:
- Diatomaceous earth (DE)
- Synthetic pyrethroids (e.g., cypermethrin, permethrin)
- Natural pyrethrins (e.g., pyrethrum)
Mechanical Control Methods
In addition to repellents and insecticides, there are several mechanical control methods you can use to kill house spiders:
- Sticky traps: Place sticky traps in areas where spiders are active. These traps can capture and kill spiders, as well as other insects.
- Vacuum: Use a vacuum cleaner to suck up spiders and their webs. Be sure to empty the vacuum bag or canister outside to prevent spiders from re-entering your home.
- Insect light traps: These traps use ultraviolet light to attract and kill insects, including spiders.
Professional Pest Control Services
If your spider infestation is severe or you're dealing with venomous spiders, it's essential to contact a professional pest control service. Trained technicians can identify the source of the infestation, recommend appropriate treatment options, and provide ongoing prevention strategies to keep spiders at bay.
In conclusion, knowing how to kill house spiders involves a combination of preventive measures, natural and chemical repellents, and mechanical control methods. By staying vigilant and taking a multi-faceted approach to spider control, you can create an unwelcoming environment for these eight-legged invaders and enjoy a spider-free home.