How Spiders Find Their Way Into Your Home — and How to Keep Them Out

What This Blog Covers

• Common ways spiders can enter your home
• How small gaps, cracks, and vents become entry points
• How spiders hitchhike on items or ride the wind indoors
• Practical steps to make your home less inviting to spiders
• Why natural repellents and over-the-counter insecticides often fall short
• How professional spider control can provide long-term solutions
• How Harbor Pest Control helps San Diego residents protect their homes

How Spiders Enter Homes

Spiders are surprisingly resourceful. They can sneak into your home in several ways:

• Small gaps and cracks: Even tiny openings around windows, doors, pipes, and vents can provide easy access for spiders.
• Hitchhiking on items: Spiders can cling to boxes, plants, firewood, or any other items brought in from outdoors, garages, or storage spaces.
• Riding the wind: Some spiders use silk threads to “balloon” through the air. A gust of wind can carry them into your home through an open door or window.

Being aware of these entry points can help you take preventative steps before spiders become a problem.

Practical Steps to Spider-Proof Your Home

You don’t have to wait for a spider to show up to take action. These proactive steps can make your home less appealing to arachnids:

• Install door sweeps on all exterior doors.
• Replace worn or damaged weather stripping around doors and windows.
• Use mesh screens to cover vents and open windows.
• Seal openings around pipes, wires, and vents with caulk.
• Reduce clutter indoors to limit hiding spots.
• Limit outdoor lighting near doors and windows, as this attracts insects that spiders prey on.

While some natural repellents, such as lemon, peppermint, or lavender oils, smell nice, they are generally not effective in the long term. Even over-the-counter insecticides usually don’t provide a lasting solution for spider infestations.

Why Professional Spider Control Works

If spiders (and the insects they eat) continue to appear despite your best efforts, it’s time to call the experts. Locally owned and operated, Harbor Pest Control has been helping San Diego homeowners protect their homes since 1948. Our certified pest control specialists will:

• Conduct thorough inspections to identify potential entry points for spiders and other house-infesting pests.
• Provide personalized treatment plans tailored to your home and situation.
• Use effective methods to prevent future infestations.

Don’t let spiders make themselves at home. Contact Harbor Pest Control today to schedule a complimentary inspection and reclaim your home as a spider-free space.

Frequently Asked Questions About House-infesting Spiders in San Diego

What types of spiders are common in San Diego homes?

San Diego homeowners may encounter several types of spiders, including house spiders, orb-weavers, brown recluse, and black widow spiders. Most are harmless; the latter two arachnids are venomous and can pose a risk; they should be handled with caution.

Are there times of year when spiders are more active inside homes?

In San Diego, spiders can be active year-round due to the mild climate, but you’ll often notice more indoor activity in late summer and early fall. During these months, spiders mature and search for mates, and cooler nighttime temperatures encourage them to seek shelter inside homes. Additionally, dry conditions and reduced outdoor prey can make your home an attractive spot for a spider seeking food and shelter.

Do outdoor landscaping choices affect spider activity indoors?

Yes. Dense shrubs, piles of leaves, and woodpiles near the home can provide hiding spots for spiders. Keeping a clean perimeter can reduce the number that make it inside.

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^{This blog was originally published on August 1, 2018; it has been updated to include new information.}