Spiders are one of the most feared, yet commonly observed arachnids in homes across the country. While these creatures may be seen in most any space in or around a home, they are most often found in basements. The reason being is that this area of the home offers the most ideal of conditions – in terms of habitat – for spiders. Basements are dark, cool, and have high levels of humidity. Additionally, basements often have a presence of insects that the spiders will prey upon.
Spiders can be anywhere in the house. Unfortunately, basements are even more attractive. Yes, it is an area that is used less frequently than other rooms, but it is often used as rooms for laundry or even transitioned into another type of room, such as a recreational area, a bedroom, a man cave, or a she-shed area.
Often, items are stored in the basement that encourages spiders to take up residency. Examples of these items include boxes, old furniture, and numerous other types of items. These types of objects provide an area for the spiders to live and hide freely.
It is rare for a spider to be liked by a homeowner. If you are reading this, you have probably observed one or more spiders in your basement. In this guide, we will provide you with numerous tips on how to get rid of the spiders in the basement of your home.
Cleanliness Counts
If you want to get those creepy eight-legged spiders out of your home, you should start by completely cleaning the basement. If there is clutter, it has to be eliminated. When you remove the clutter, you are also removing places for spiders to hide.
Focus on certain areas of the basement such as corners, the ceiling, and behind furniture as these are typical locations for spiders to build their webs.
If you store items in your basement, try using storage containers that may be sealed and placed on shelves.
Lower the Humidity
Spiders are attracted to environments that are moist due to high humidity levels. This is because insects that serve as the prey of spiders are also attracted to these types of areas.
You can lower the humidity in your basement by using a dehumidifier.
This machine works by pulling the moisture from the air and creating an environment that is dryer. Be certain to clean the machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions regularly so that it operates appropriately. When the room becomes drier, you will find that spiders are deterred as well as many other types of insects.
Seal it Up
Avoid using cardboard boxes to store items in your basement because they like to make their homes inside of these boxes. If you have to store items in the basement, you should do as we previously recommended; that is, store items in plastic containers that have a lid that fits very tightly. Not only will this keep spiders out, but it will protect the stored items from moisture and dust.
Eliminate Food Sources
Spiders eat insects. If you want to get rid of spiders in your basement, you should eliminate any and all food sources in the room. Keep the room clean and make sure that there are no food crumbs present as these will attract insects. Spills may also attract insects.
Eliminating food sources and keeping moisture out will help eradicate spiders from your basement.
Block Vents by Installing Screens
Vents often serve as an entry point for spiders. To successfully overcome this, you should have screens installed over any vents in the basement. The screen should be a fine mesh one to ensure optimal protection. Inspect the screens on a regular basis to ensure that no cracks and no gaps have developed. If you discover that damage has occurred, you should replace the screen as quickly as possible.
Install a Screen on Your Basement Window
If you have a window in your basement, you can also fit that window with a screen. This will ensure that spiders and other insects cannot enter into the space through the window. You should check the window screen regularly to ensure no damage has occurred. If damage has occurred, change the screen immediately. When you install your window screen, make certain it fits snugly for optimal protection.
Increase Lighting
The darkness of the typical basement is quite attractive to spiders and the pests that they prey on. This is why you should increase the amount of light in your basement. Use brighter bulbs and be certain to focus lights on hotspots for spiders. These include corners and behind furniture in the room.
Utilize Essential Oils
It has been proven that several of the essential oils on the market today will repel spiders in the basement as a result of the strong scent that they carry.
Essential oils that help repel spiders from the basement include peppermint, eucalyptis, citronella, tea tree, lavender and other citrus oils like lemon and orange.
Mix the oils into a spray bottle with water and then spray in the areas of the basement that you want to keep spiders away from. To ensure it works out well, we recommend you use the spray every few days.
Use Vinegar
Spiders do not like the smell at vinegar, whatsoever. Combine equal parts of vinegar and water into a spray bottle and then spray the basement. Be sure to get corners and behind furniture really well and around the basement window and/or vents that are present in the room. Just remember that vinegar is highly acidic, so be careful what you spray it on. Remember to reapply at least once a week.
Use Diatomaceous Earth
DE is a specially-created powder that is created from the remains of diatoms – which are very small water-based organisms. The edges have the capability of cutting through the exoskeleton of a spider. When this happens, the arachnid will experience dehydration. Eventually, the spider will die.
Simply put a thin layer of diatomaceous earth around the entire perimeter of your basement. When applying, wear a mask and do not put it in an area where a child or a pet may have access to it. Be certain to use only the food grade product, not the type for pool filters.
Cedar Mulch Placement
Cedar mulch has a very specific type of smell. You may place this around the entire perimeter of your home in order to repel spiders from entering and the corners of your basement. It also eliminates moths and similar pests. This also repels termites, which is a huge bonus to you as a homeowner.
Use Eucalyptus Plants
Eucalyptus has a very strong scent that resembles that of menthol. While we humans appreciate this smell, spiders do not like it. Place eucalyptus plants or just leaves in the basement to deter spiders from the space in your home. You may also plant eucalyptus around your home. You are sure to enjoy the healing aroma and its ability to repel arachnids and other pests away from your home.
Vacuum
It is important that you make it a habit to vacuum your basement on a regular basis – even if you do not have carpeting installed. This helps to eliminate spiders, the eggs that they have, and their webs. Always get the corners and behind furniture. Once you have finished, empty or clean out the vacuum outdoors so that any spiders you have picked up do not make their way back into your home.
Spider Repellent Spray
If you are interested in removing spiders from your basement, consider a commercial spider repellent spray that may be purchased over-the-counter. Only buy those that are safe to use inside of your home and are considered to be non-toxic to humans and pets.
Spray near entry points, in corners, and along -the walls of the basement for optimal success. Be sure to read the product labeling to determine how often to spray.
Commercial Pest Control
If you have spiders, this is a sign that you have other pests in your home, too. To solve the entire problem, you should get commercial pest control. We here at All Pest will conduct an inspection of your home to determine what pests you are dealing with and why you are dealing with them. Once the pest control is applied, we will clean up the webs and other messes left behind by pests. To inquire about our services or to set up an appointment, contact us today by calling the following number: 765-259-0043
