Many pests can inhabit your yard and home, and spiders are no exception. Spiders, like many bugs, tend to make their appearance in their winter. While many people are fine with spiders being in their gardens, they don’t want these critters in their home. And it’s possible that spiders may be looking for shelter in your home.

But you may wonder: why do I have spider problems in the fall? Is it because of the colder weather? Maybe. Spiders are looking for shelter, so they may be more active. They are cold-blooded, so they are looking for somewhere quiet and dark to ride out the cold weather. This may mean hiding out in your home, business, or other building.

But there are other factors to consider as well. An example of this is breeding habits. Spiders tend to mate in the fall, so if you see more of them out and about, it’s because they are looking for a mate.

You may also see more spiders inside your home during the fall because that’s where the food sources are. Spiders are just following their prey, so if you are also dealing with ants, crickets, and beetles, you’re likely to have a spider problem as well.

Spiders may also be more noticeable during the fall because they’re bigger. They hatch earlier in the year, so by the time fall and winter roll around, they’re full grown. They may be the size of a quarter and building webs inside and outside your home, so you’re more likely to notice them. Some spiders can also live a long (as long as 20 years), so it’s possible that you may be seeing the same ones year in and year out.

Keeping Spiders Out of Your Home

The good news is that you can keep spiders out of your home during the fall and other times of the year. Here are some things you can do:

• Vacuum your home. If you have spiders in your home, you likely have spider eggs as well. To get rid of spiders and keep them from coming back, your best bet is to vacuum your home from top to bottom. Don’t forget corners, crevices, and under furniture. When you’re done, be sure to dispose of the vacuum contents outside.
• Get rid of attractants. The best way to keep spiders out is to not have anything they want. This means cleaning up food messes promptly and getting rid of certain outdoor lighting. Keep leaf piles and stacks of firewood away from your home as well.
• Use baits. Sticky traps have an aroma that attracts spiders. Place them throughout your home and you can determine where the spiders are hiding.

Contact Us Today

While spiders are not typically dangerous, they are still unwelcome guests. Many people are scared of these insects and don’t want them in their homes.

At Environmental Pest Control, we get it. Our state-certified technicians offer free spider inspections. We’ll help you get an infestation under control. Call (540) 441-7397 to schedule a consultation. We serve the Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia areas.