Did you know that spiders are some of the most versatile creatures on the planet? Not only can they thrive in a wide variety of habitats, but they’re also capable of adapting to changing conditions very quickly. This makes them a major threat to homeowners, as a single spider can quickly establish a web and start breeding inside your garage.
While there’s no way to completely eliminate spiders from your garage, there are several things you can do to discourage them from setting up shop and reduce the risk of an infestation. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most effective prevention strategies for keeping spiders out of your garage.
1. Keep your garage clean and clutter-free.
Spiders are attracted to cluttered, messy areas because they offer plenty of hiding places for them to build their webs. By keeping your garage clean and free of excess clutter, you’ll make it much less inviting for spiders. Make sure to regularly sweep the floor and dust all surfaces to remove any potential spider homes.
When storing items in your garage, keep them in bins or on shelves rather than leaving them out in the open. This will make it harder for spiders to access them and build their webs. Or, if you have the space, consider storing items in a storage unit or shed rather than in your garage.
2. Keep food and garbage sealed up.
Spiders are attracted to food sources, so it’s important to keep any food or garbage sealed up tightly. Make sure to store all food in airtight containers and to promptly remove any garbage from your garage. If possible, try to keep garbage cans outside of your garage rather than inside.
Foods like pet food and birdseed are especially attractive to spiders, so it’s important to keep them in sealed containers that spiders can’t access. If you have a pet that spends time in your garage, make sure to clean up any spills or crumbs immediately.
3. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal cracks and gaps.
One of the most common ways that spiders get into garages is through cracks and gaps in the walls and doors. To prevent this, seal up any cracks or gaps with caulk or weatherstripping. This will help to keep spiders out and also deter other pests like ants and rodents.
With weatherstripping, it’s important to choose a product that will fit snugly against the door or window. Otherwise, gaps will still be present and spiders may be able to squeeze through. Consider using products like foam tapes or sealants for the best results.
4. Install screens on doors and windows.
If your garage has doors or windows, make sure they’re fitted with screens. This will help to keep spiders (and other insects) from getting inside. When choosing a screen, look for one that’s made of a tightly woven material like nylon or fiberglass. Avoid using screens made of aluminum or plastic, as these can be easily torn by spiders.
From time to time, check your screens for any tears or holes. These need to be repaired as soon as possible to prevent spiders from getting inside. Or, if the damage is extensive, you may need to replace the screen entirely.
5. Use a spider repellent.
There are a variety of commercial spider repellents available that can help to keep spiders away from your garage. These products typically contain natural ingredients like peppermint oil or citronella that spiders find unpleasant.
For the best results, choose a repellent that’s specifically designed for spiders. Repellents that are made for other pests like mosquitoes or ants may not be as effective against spiders. Apply the repellent around the perimeter of your garage and reapply as needed to maintain its potency.
When using a spider repellent, be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging. Some repellents need to be diluted before they’re applied, while others can be used directly from the bottle. Repellents can be sprayed around doorways, windows, and other potential entry points to help deter spiders from entering your garage.
6. Use a spider trap.
If you already have a spider problem in your garage, traps can be an effective way to get rid of them. There are a variety of different traps available, so choose one that’s specifically designed for spiders. These traps typically use sticky paper or glue to capture spiders that walk across them.
For the best results, place traps in areas where spiders are known to frequent. This may include corners, beneath shelves, or near doorways and windows. Check the traps regularly and dispose of any spiders that have been caught.
7. Vacuum up spiders and their webs.
If you see a spider or its web in your garage, you can remove it with a vacuum cleaner. This is a quick and easy way to get rid of individual spiders without having to use chemicals. Just be sure to empty the vacuum bag afterward to prevent the spider from escaping.
During your regular cleaning routine, vacuum up any spiders or webs that you see. This will help to reduce the spider population in your garage and make it less inviting for new spiders to move in.
8. Use a natural spider killer.
If you prefer not to use chemical pesticides, there are a few natural options that can kill spiders. One popular choice is diatomaceous earth, which is a powder made from the fossilized remains of algae. This substance works by puncturing the spider’s exoskeleton, causing it to dehydrate and die.
Another option is to mix together equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. This solution can be sprayed directly onto spiders to kill them. Just be sure to avoid spraying it on any surfaces that could be damaged by the vinegar.
9. Bring in a professional.
If you’re struggling to get rid of spiders in your garage, it may be time to call in a professional. Pest control companies have the experience and resources necessary to effectively eliminate spider populations. In some cases, they may even be able to identify the source of the problem and help you prevent future infestations.
Before hiring a pest control company, be sure to do your research. Ask for recommendations from friends or family, and read online reviews to see what others have to say about the company. It’s also a good idea to get multiple quotes from different companies before making your final decision.
10. Make your garage less inviting to spiders.
Spiders are attracted to dark, secluded areas where they can build their webs undisturbed. To make your garage less inviting to spiders, keep it clean and clutter-free. Store boxes, holiday decorations, and other items off the ground and away from the walls to give spiders fewer places to hide.
Spiders also love moist environments, so be sure to fix any leaks in your roof or plumbing. If your garage is particularly damp, you may need to invest in a dehumidifier to help keep the air dry.
Final Thoughts
Spiders can be a nuisance, but there are a few things you can do to keep them out of your garage. Start by sealing up any cracks or gaps around doors and windows. Then, keep the area clean and clutter-free to make it less inviting to spiders.
You can also try using traps, vacuuming up spiders, or spraying them with a natural spider killer. If all else fails, you can always call in a professional pest control company. Just be sure to do your research beforehand to find a reputable and reliable company.