Brown recluse spiders, which were once common to only a few southern states, have now steadily increased in numbers throughout the country. Here in Memphis, Tennessee, our team has received multiple calls from homeowners needing spider infestations handled.
If you are also in a similar situation, don’t worry, because we are here to help. In this blog post, we’ll share some crucial tips on how to get rid of a brown recluse spider infestation.
Whether you’ve had a one-time run-in or just want to prevent a potential infestation, understanding what kills these insects and how to control them is key to keeping your home safe.
What Are Brown Recluse Spiders?
Brown recluse spiders are small, but don’t let their size fool you. These spiders are typically light to dark brown, with a distinct violin-shaped marking on their back, which is why they’re sometimes called “fiddleback” or “violin” spiders.
They are known for their silent, reclusive nature. But while they prefer to hide out in dark, undisturbed areas like basements, attics, and closets, they can sometimes wander into living spaces.
They’re nocturnal hunters, so you may not even see them during the day. They’re also shy and tend to avoid human contact, but if disturbed or threatened, they may bite you, which is a problem.
Also Read: Brown Recluse Spiders 101: Facts, Identification, and Control Tips
Why Are Brown Recluse Spiders Dangerous?
The reason brown recluse spiders pose a threat is because of their venom. A bite from one of these spiders may not be immediately painful, but it can become serious over time. Their venom contains enzymes that destroy tissue, potentially leading to open wounds that are slow to heal, especially if you don’t treat them.
Along with a wound where the bite took place, their venom can also cause muscle pain, nausea, a fever, or even seizures in extreme cases.
What Kills Brown Recluse Spiders?
Since they can be dangerous, it’s important to know how to keep them away from your home and get rid of them. Fortunately, there are several options that you can try, including the following:
Insecticides
The most straightforward way to kill brown recluse spiders is by using insecticides specifically designed for spiders.
But what exactly kills the brown recluse spider in these sprays? Look for products that contain active ingredients such as bifenthrin, cyfluthrin, or deltamethrin. These chemicals are often found in sprays or dusts that can be applied directly to the areas where the spiders are likely hiding.
Sprays are good for spot treatments, and you’ll want to use them in areas behind furniture, around windows, and in closets. Remember, brown recluse spiders like to hide, so spraying in their common hideouts will give you the best results.
Chemical Fumigation
For more severe infestations, a full fumigation of your home may be necessary. This method uses chemical gasses that permeate all parts of your home, effectively killing spiders and their eggs. Because this is a more drastic option, it’s usually reserved for large infestations and requires hiring a professional exterminator.
Natural Ways To Get Rid Of Brown Recluse Spiders
If you prefer to avoid chemicals, there are a few natural remedies that some people swear by, though they may not be as instantly effective as insecticides.
Diatomaceous Earth:
This is a good and safe option. This fine powder is made from crushed fossilized algae and is safe for humans and pets to be around. When spiders crawl through it, the sharp edges of the powder damage their exoskeletons, causing them to become dehydrated and die. You can sprinkle it in areas where you suspect spiders are lurking.
Essential Oils
Essential oils are your best friend when it comes to getting rid of most kinds of spiders.
Peppermint, tea tree, and citrus are recommended as natural spider repellents. While these might help to repel spiders, they won’t necessarily kill them. Spraying these oils diluted in water around entry points and hiding spots may deter spiders from setting up shop in your home.
DIY Sprays
For those who like a more hands-on approach, DIY spider-killing sprays can be made at home. One common recipe is to mix vinegar and water in a spray bottle. While this won’t kill spiders instantly like commercial insecticides, it can help repel them.
Sticky Traps
Another non-chemical option is the use of sticky traps. These traps are easy to set up and can help you monitor and reduce the spider population. Simply place them along walls, under furniture, or in closets where you suspect spiders are moving. While this won’t kill an entire infestation, it can catch individual spiders and reduce their numbers.
Use A Vacuum
Believe it or not, vacuuming is an effective way to get rid of brown recluse spiders on the spot. If you see one of these spiders, you can vacuum them up using a hose attachment. Be sure to immediately empty the vacuum bag or canister outside, as they can survive in the bag. There are even special spider vacuums available that are pretty effective.
Other Ways To Control Spider Infestations
It’s always best to do what you can to prevent brown recluse spiders from invading your space in the first place. Here are some practical steps you can take to keep these spiders out of your home:
- Declutter: Brown recluse spiders love hiding in piles of clutter. Keeping your home organized and reducing unnecessary items in storage areas will give them fewer places to hide.
- Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and walls. Sealing these up will reduce the chance of spiders entering your home in the first place.
- Regular Cleaning: Vacuuming regularly, especially in corners and under furniture, can help prevent spiders from settling in.
- Humidity Control: Brown recluse spiders prefer dry environments, so controlling moisture levels in your home by using a humidifier can make your space less appealing to them.
- Proper Storage: Store items in sealed plastic containers rather than cardboard boxes, which spiders can easily crawl into.
What Not To Do: Common Mistakes
There are a few common mistakes people make when dealing with brown recluse spiders. Make sure you don’t repeat them.
Ignoring The Issue: Hoping the spiders will just go away on their own can lead to a bigger problem down the road.
Using Ineffective Products: Not all insecticides work on brown recluse spiders, so it’s important to choose the right one.
Handling Spiders Directly: Never attempt to pick up or squash a brown recluse by hand, as this can lead to a dangerous bite.
Jamison Pest and Lawn: Your Trusted Expert For Spider Removal
We hope that the tips we’ve shared above go a long way in helping you remove brown recluse spiders from your home. However, if you’ve tried other DIY methods and are still seeing these spiders, or if you’ve noticed more than just a few, it’s time to call a professional exterminator.
At Jamison Pest and Lawn, we have a team of experts with extensive experience in spider removal and control services. If you require our help with a brown recluse spider infestation or another type of pest, contact us today at (901) 452-1505)
