How To Get Rid Of Daddy Long Legs Spiders

Daddy Long Legs spiders, also known as cellar spiders or harvestmen, are a common household nuisance for many people. These long-legged creatures often lurk in dark corners, basements, and crawlspaces, causing anxiety and fear. While they are not venomous or harmful to humans, their presence can be unsettling. If you’re looking for effective ways to eliminate daddy long legs spiders from your home, this article will guide you through various techniques and preventive measures to ensure a spider-free environment.

Contents:

• Preventive Measures
• Natural Remedies
• Chemical Approaches
• Frequently Asked Questions

Preventive Measures:

As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. To keep daddy long legs spiders at bay, here are some preventive measures you can take:

Homes and Yards Maintenance:

1. Keep your home and yard clean and clutter-free. Spiders love hiding in dark and undisturbed areas, so regular cleaning and decluttering will discourage their presence.

2. Seal all cracks, gaps, and crevices around windows, doors, and the foundation of your home. Use caulk or weather stripping to ensure a tight seal.

3. Remove any excess vegetation or debris around your house, as these can create a favorable environment for spiders.

4. Trim tree branches and shrubs that touch or are close to the exterior of your home. This eliminates potential pathways for spiders to enter.

Lighting and Ventilation:

1. Install bright outdoor lights around your home’s exterior. Daddy long legs spiders are attracted to darkness, so a well-lit area makes it less desirable for them.

2. Ensure all rooms in your house have sufficient lighting. Spiders are less likely to build webs in well-lit areas.

3. Improve ventilation by using fans and dehumidifiers. Spiders prefer humid areas, so keeping the humidity low helps deter them.

Pest Control:

1. Regularly inspect and treat your home for other insects and pests. Spiders often prey on other bugs, so reducing their food source can discourage their presence.

2. Consider professional pest control services if the spider infestation persists despite your efforts. They have the knowledge and resources to effectively eliminate spider problems.

Natural Remedies:

If you prefer a more natural approach to get rid of daddy long legs spiders, here are some effective remedies:

Essential Oils:

1. Peppermint oil: Mix a few drops of peppermint oil with water and spray it in areas where you suspect spider activity.

2. Tea tree oil: Similar to peppermint oil, tea tree oil can be diluted and used as a spray in areas where spiders are commonly found.

3. Citrus oil: Spiders dislike the scent of citrus. Dilute citrus oil with water and use it as a spider repellent spray.

White Vinegar:

1. Create a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water. Spray it on corners, cracks, and crevices to repel spiders.

Chestnuts:

1. Place chestnuts around your home, especially near entry points such as doors and windows. Daddy long legs spiders are known to dislike the smell of chestnuts.

Chemical Approaches:

If natural remedies do not provide the desired results, you may consider using chemical methods to eliminate daddy long legs spiders:

Insecticides:

1. Choose an insecticide specifically formulated for spiders and follow the instructions carefully. Directly apply it to areas where spiders are likely to hide or enter your home.

2. Dust insecticides can be applied to areas with minimal traffic, such as crawlspaces and attics.

3. Use residual sprays around the perimeter of your house to prevent spiders from entering.

Glue Traps:

1. Place glue traps along walls and corners to catch wandering daddy long legs spiders. Check and replace the glue traps regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Are daddy long legs spiders dangerous?

A: Daddy long legs spiders are not venomous and pose no threat to humans.

Q: Why are there so many daddy long legs spiders in my basement?

A: Basements provide an ideal environment for daddy long legs spiders due to the darkness, moisture, and abundance of prey insects.

Q: How can I prevent daddy long legs spiders from coming back?

A: Regular cleaning, sealing entry points, maintaining a well-lit environment, and addressing other insect or pest issues are effective preventive measures.

Q: Can I handle daddy long legs spiders with my bare hands?

A: Daddy long legs spiders can be gently picked up and relocated if necessary, as they are harmless.

Q: Do daddy long legs spiders eat other spiders?

A: Daddy long legs spiders are known to feast on other spiders, making them helpful in controlling other spider populations.

Q: How long do daddy long legs spiders live?

A: Daddy long legs spiders typically have a lifespan of one year.

Q: Can I use ultrasonic repellents to get rid of daddy long legs spiders?

A: Ultrasonic repellents have shown limited effectiveness in repelling spiders, including daddy long legs spiders. It is recommended to rely on other methods for better results.

By following these preventive measures and using natural remedies or appropriate chemical approaches, you can significantly reduce or eliminate daddy long legs spiders from your home. Remember to maintain regular cleaning practices and address any pest-related issues promptly to ensure a spider-free environment for you and your family.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice.