What to Do When You Spot an Unwanted Eight-Legged Visitor
Introduction
Seeing a spider scuttle across your floor or ceiling can trigger anything from mild unease to full-blown panic. But before reaching for the shoe or bug spray, it’s worth knowing: not all spiders are bad — and not all require extermination.
In fact, many spiders are beneficial. They help control pests like flies, mosquitoes, and even other spiders. But some can be venomous or aggressive, especially in enclosed spaces. So how do you know when to safely release them — and when to call in the pros?
In this post, we’ll walk through how to remove a spider from your home safely, identify potentially dangerous species in Canada, and share practical strategies to keep them out for good.
Why Some Spiders Are Beneficial — and Others Are Dangerous
Most common house spiders are harmless and prefer to stay out of your way. These include:
- Cellar spiders (aka daddy longlegs)
- Common house spiders
- Jumping spiders
These species are non-aggressive, rarely bite, and help reduce the population of more bothersome insects.
However, some spiders should raise concern, especially if found indoors:
- Black widow (found in BC, Alberta, and parts of Ontario)
- Brown recluse (rare in Canada but occasionally found in imported goods or warm areas)
- Hobo spider (disputed toxicity, but sometimes misidentified)
If you see a spider that’s large, aggressive, or unfamiliar — especially with distinct markings — it’s wise to be cautious.
Step 1: Safely Capturing and Releasing Spiders
If the spider isn’t posing a threat, you can safely remove and relocate it outdoors with a simple method:
The Glass-and-Paper Trick:
- Grab a clear glass or container and a piece of stiff paper or cardboard.
- Gently place the container over the spider.
- Slide the paper under the glass until the spider is contained.
- Carry it outside and release it several feet from your home.
🕷️ Tip: Move slowly and avoid sudden movements. If you’re uncomfortable, ask someone else or wear gloves for peace of mind.
Step 2: Use Natural Repellents to Keep Spiders Away
Once the spider is out, stop more from coming in by using natural deterrents. These methods are safe for pets and children and can be applied regularly:
- Peppermint oil – Mix 10–15 drops with water in a spray bottle. Spray around baseboards, door frames, windows, and basement corners.
- Vinegar solution – A 50/50 mix of vinegar and water can disrupt pheromone trails.
- Citrus peels – Spiders dislike citrus oils; rub lemon or orange peels along window sills or entry points.
Use these weekly, especially during spring and summer when spider activity peaks in areas like Surrey, Vancouver, Calgary, and Kelowna.
Step 3: Clean and Seal Cracks in Walls
Prevention starts with closing the door — literally.
- Inspect the interior and exterior of your home for cracks, holes, and gaps.
- Use caulk or weather stripping around windows, doors, and foundation edges.
- Keep basements, attics, and storage areas clean and clutter-free.
- Vacuum regularly under furniture and in corners to remove webs and egg sacs.
🧼 Bonus Tip: Reduce other insect populations, as they attract spiders looking for a food source.
Step 4: Call in the Pros for Recurring Infestations
If you keep removing spiders but they continue to return — especially venomous or large populations — it’s time to call Avayda Pest Control.
Our spider control service includes:
- Identification of the species and risk level
- Treatment of affected areas with eco-conscious, family-safe solutions
- Web removal around entryways, eaves, and foundation lines
- Sealing and recommendations to prevent future entry
We serve homeowners across:
- British Columbia: Vancouver, Langley, Coquitlam, Kelowna, Penticton
- Alberta: Calgary, Edmonton
- Ontario: East Toronto
Conclusion: Proactive Spider Prevention Strategies
Most spiders are more helpful than harmful — but that doesn’t mean you want them living rent-free in your home.
To recap:
✅ Safely remove and relocate non-dangerous spiders
✅ Use natural repellents like peppermint and vinegar
✅ Seal up cracks and eliminate clutter
✅ Call Avayda for expert help when needed
Don’t wait for webs to pile up — contact Avayda Pest Control to protect your home with confidence this summer.
