Spiders are common guests in many homes. While most spiders are not dangerous, some people may be afraid of them or may simply want to get rid of them.
There are many ways to keep spiders out of your home, but it is important to choose a method that is effective and safe for you, your family and the spiders. You don’t have to kill spiders to keep them out of your house.
In this article, our Montreal exterminators will discuss the different types of spiders commonly found in Quebec homes and the factors that can attract them. We will also provide you with practical tips on how to deal with spiders safely and effectively, using methods that are 100% natural.
Why do spiders come into your home?
A house is an ideal shelter for spiders, especially in the fall when they are preparing for hibernation. To find them, simply search the darkest corners of your house – the areas where there aren’t any draughts and where there is not much human or pet traffic.
How do spiders get in?
The plants and trees around your home will encourage the presence of spiders. They may also enter your home the way cockroaches do: through doors, windows and any other gaps they can find.
Any space that does not have much human traffic will also be a prime entry point for these pests:
- Cellars
- Chimneys
- Roofs
- Ventilation ducts
Are spiders dangerous to humans?
Many people think that spiders sting. In reality they bite, but there is no need to worry because they rarely bite humans. Spiders usually only bite other insects. Most spiders are also physically incapable of biting through a person’s skin with their fangs, so the risk is minimal.
Furthermore, of the 40,000 known species of spiders in the world, only about 30 produce venom that is dangerous to human health. None of these species lives in Quebec.
A spider’s first reaction to danger is usually to scurry away. If it can’t, the spider may also hunch itself up and pretend to be dead for several minutes.
How to get rid of spiders naturally
It is a common reflex to kill spiders in order to get rid of them. Now that you know they will not harm you, there is no need to do this. Instead, you can turn to natural repellents to keep them away from your home. Let’s take a look!
1. Lavender
Lavender is a very effective natural remedy for keeping spiders away. Lavender essential oils have properties that will get rid of house bugs, even wasp nests and carpenter ant nests.
Simply place lavender sachets or branches in places where spiders are located, or use lavender essential oil sprays as a preventative measure (to keep them out).
2. Mint
Mint is another great natural spider repellent. Peppermint essential oil, in particular, has a strong scent that disturbs pests of all kinds – they will avoid all areas where the odour is present.
Place fresh mint leaves or cotton balls soaked in peppermint essential oil around the windows of your home. You can also put a few drops in a spray bottle and mist around your house. These are simple and effective ways to keep spiders out of your home without using harmful chemicals.
3. Citrus fruits
Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons and grapefruits are particularly effective natural spider repellents. The smell and composition of their peels have specific properties that spiders will avoid.
You can place citrus slices or peels on windowsills or baseboards, or make sprays with citrus essential oils and squirt furniture and shelves. Both methods are effective and environmentally friendly ways to get rid of spiders.
4. White vinegar
White vinegar can be used to kill spiders that are already in your home. In addition, the smell will repel many other pests. Mix white vinegar with water and use the solution to kill spiders quickly.
5. Diatomaceous earth
Diatomaceous earth is a powerful product that can also be used to kill spiders. Spread a thin layer in strategic areas, and any spider that walks over the product will die instantly.
It is important to note that this powder must be used with care and the instructions for use must be followed precisely to avoid any risk to human and animal health.
What types of spiders are found in Quebec?
Humans do not see spiders very often because they tend to be cautious and are mainly active at night. However, some species do enter our homes or backyards, making themselves more easily noticed. Our pest exterminators in Montreal present you a list of the most common spiders in Quebec.
Dolomedes (fishing spiders)
Image : espacepourlavie.ca
There are four species of Dolomedes in Quebec, including Dolomedes Tenebrosus, a semi-aquatic species that can frequently be found near bodies of water. These spiders are quite large and can even be confused with tarantulas. In general, Dolomedes prefer to run away rather than confront humans, but they may bite if handled with bare hands.
Cellar spiders (daddy long-legs)
Image : wikipedia.org
The Pholcus phalangioides, also called cellar spider, is one of the most common species found in Quebec homes. It has a small body but very long and tapered legs. It is usually attracted to dark, cool and damp places such as cellars or basements. Although this spider is harmless to humans, it can make a strong impression because of the length of its legs.
European garden spiders
Image : espacepourlavie.ca
The Araneus diadematus, also called the European garden spider, is commonly found in green spaces and vegetable gardens in Quebec. They are most noticeable in late summer when they reach their adult size. You may have seen one standing in the center of its large web, waiting for its next meal. These spiders are easily recognized by the cross pattern on their abdomen, as well as the impressive size and elaborate patterns of their webs.
Trust Elite Pest Control to get rid of spiders
There are many methods you can use to get rid of spiders effectively. Natural repellents such as lavender, mint and citrus are safe and environmentally friendly options.
It is important to conduct regular inspections to identify areas where spiders tend to hide and treat the areas accordingly. In general, it is better to prevent invasions than to have to respond to them. Note that it is best to avoid harming spiders as they play an important role in the ecosystem.
If you are experiencing an infestation from animals such as mice or rats, then Elite Pest Control experts are here to help! Contact us to learn more about our pest management services.
