Best spider sprays to eliminate indoor and outdoor spiders
Spiders are known to silently infest homes, garages, basements, or gardens. They often build webs in corners, under furniture, around doorways and among garden plants. Many spiders are nonvenomous, but the sight of one can bring discomfort to homeowners and visitors. In certain circumstances, venomous species such as the brown recluse or black widow can be a hazard to human health, making timely control more important.
It is important to properly control spiders for health and comfort. In addition to scaring, spiders can cause allergic reactions to those susceptible. Webs become laden with dust and debris, making it appear that rooms have gone neglected. With the aid of the best spider spray for the house, individuals can decrease the number of spiders in and around the house, reduce health risks and preserve a clean, inviting atmosphere indoors and outdoors.
MEET THE EXPERT
- ■ Steven R. Kutcher – An American entomologist known for handling insects in movies like Arachnophobia, Jurassic Park, and Spider-Man, and for creating “Bug Art” using insects as brushes.
- ■ Li Liying – A Chinese entomologist who developed pest control methods used globally on crops and forests, with over 110 research papers and nine books to her name.
Spider Behavior and Habitats
Some spiders typically live indoors, while others are found outdoors. Indoors, people can spot house spiders, cellar spiders, and jumping spiders. Wolf spiders, garden spiders and orb weavers are more prevalent outdoors. Some hazardous spiders, such as the brown recluse and black widow, may also inhabit secretive areas inside or close to the home.
They like dark, undisturbed areas in which to conceal themselves. Indoors, they frequently lurk in corners, basements, attics, closets and behind furniture. Outdoors, they spin their webs in sheds, under decks, in stacks of wood and around windows or door frames.
Spiders are entering an area primarily for food and protection. They gravitate toward where other insects are, since that’s their food. Moisture, mess and open access points can also attract them. Spiders need an environment full of complex spaces that let them build their webs and stay hidden.
Types of Spider Sprays: Natural vs Chemical
There are two main types of spider sprays: natural sprays and chemical sprays. Each type works differently and has its own pros and cons.
1. Natural Sprays
Natural spider sprays are derived from plant substances, which are typically essential oils. These sprays don’t outright kill spiders, instead they work by repelling spiders from treated sites. And they are in demand by homeowners looking to steer clear of strong chemicals, such as where children or pets are hanging around.
Common Ingredients
- Peppermint oil has a strong smell that spiders dislike.
- Lemongrass oil is often used as a natural repellent for insects, including spiders.
- Chestnut extract is known to help repel spiders when combined with other oils.
- Cedarwood and tea tree oil, sometimes added for extra effectiveness.
Benefits
- Spider killer spray safe for pets: Because they are made out of natural ingredients, these sprays are less likely to be dangerous for humans or pets when used according to the instructions.
- Nice scent: Most natural sprays leave a fresh and herbal scent.
- Environmentally friendly: They biodegrade and don’t contaminate the environment.
Drawbacks
- Short-lived: Natural sprays can dissipate in the course of days and may need to be reapplied often, particularly in areas that are exposed to wind, water or the sun.
- Repellent only: Virtually all natural sprays repel spiders but do not kill them. They just may not be as effective with severe infestations.
- Not as effective outdoors: Rain and sunlight can diminish their effectiveness rapidly, and they are therefore better suited for indoor use.
Safety Considerations
It is very important to use spider sprays safely to protect humans, their pets, and the planet. Some varieties of spider sprays are formulated with potent insecticides, which could be dangerous if not managed properly.
- Ensure proper ventilation: Before applying indoors, open windows and doors for a continuous airflow throughout the process and following application. This prevents breathing in noxious fumes.
- Exclude kids and pets: Keep children and pets from the affected area until the spray has fully dried. This is to avoid accidental touching or swallowing.
- Securely store products: Store all chemical sprays in locked cabinets or high up on shelves out of reach of children and animals. Storage will protect them from being spilled and poisoning.
- Read and follow label instructions: Before using any gardening product, always read and follow label directions, including application information, cautions and safe use statements.
2. Chemical Sprays
At the same time, chemical sprays are packed with potent, synthetic ingredients that are meant to kill spiders immediately and keep them at bay for longer periods of time. These items are typically applied in a location that has a severe, or constant, issue with a specific type of spider. They are fit for both indoor and outdoor application and are often available through hardware stores or pest control kits.
Common Ingredients
- Bifenthrin is a common insecticide that not only kills spiders on contact with sprayed surfaces, but also leaves an invisible barrier that continues to work, some say for months.
- Deltamethrin is another powerful chemical control for spiders and other pests is deltamethrin.
- Cypermethrin or lambda-cyhalothrin is found in many household sprays and is effective in killing and repelling spiders.
Benefits
- Contact killers: Chemical sprays are quick-acting, and they often kill spiders on contact.
- Long-term protection: Certain sprays can deter spiders for as long as 12 months after a single application.
- Large effective area: Ideal for basements, attics, garage, sheds, and other areas where spiders may build webs.
Drawbacks
- Toxicity: These sprays can pose a threat to children, pets and even adults if misused. Make sure to read and adhere to all safety guidelines.
- Strong smell: Some sprays have an overpowering smell that lasts for hours.
- Environmental impact: These can be harmful to beneficial insects like bees and pollinators, and if overused, can contaminate the soil or water.
Top Chemical Spider Sprays for Indoor and Outdoor Use
Chemical spider spray that is a rapid knockdown spray and provides long protection against many pest insects. The four best spider repellents for home, basement, garage and outdoors are available on Growcycle. These four products with powerful active substances and simple application techniques are effective in ensuring homes, garages, basements, or garden areas are spider-free.
Terro 16oz Spider Killer Aerosol W/Deltamethrin
Terro 16 oz Spider Killer Aerosol uses deltamethrin, a synthetic insecticide that kills spiders on contact and provides a residual barrier against future infestations.
It is effective on venomous ones including black widows and brown recluses as well as ants, cockroaches, scorpions and other crawling critters. The aerosol works great for large area treatments as well as cracks and crevices.
Harris 32oz Spider Killer RTU w/ Trigger Spray
Harris 32 oz Spider Killer RTU with Trigger Spray has no mixing involved and is ready to use. Its formula combats spiders, as well as certain other pests, like ants, water bugs, fleas and crickets.
User can use the trigger sprayer to apply a smooth layer along baseboards, window or door frames, and outside foundations.
Harris 16oz Scorpion & Spider Killer
Harris 16 oz Scorpion & Spider Killer combines multiple insecticides in a precise aerosol formulation. It kills scorpions, spiders and other pests both inside and outside of the home.
It kills spiders, scorpions, ants, fleas and Asian lady beetles. An attached straw applicator helps to reach into cracks and crevices where spiders commonly nest.
Hot Shot 17.5oz Ant Roach & Spider Killer Lemon
Hot Shot 17.5 oz Ant, Roach & Spider Killer (Lemon Scent) contains imiprothrin and lambda-cyhalothrin to provide effective pest control. It does not produce an oily film like most chemical sprays, and imparts a fresh lemon scent throughout the space that is being treated.
This makes it ideal for kitchens, living rooms, and other spaces where odor can be a problem.
Top Natural Spider Sprays for Safe and Eco-Friendly Use
For those who prefer safer, eco-friendly solutions, natural spider spray for indoors offers effective pest control without harsh chemicals.
Cooper & Gracie Organic Multi-Insect and Spider Spray
Created with 100% food grade, plant-based essential oils safe for the kids, pets and home. It is suitable for family, garage, basement, and garden for spider, flies, ants, and other insects. Because it does not include any toxins or synthetic chemicals, it is environmentally safe and provides a bug-free outdoor experience. For best results, the spray should be reapplied periodically to keep Spiders away.
Gardening Naturally Spider Repellent
Another natural solution to trust is the Gardening Naturally Spider Repellent, it's made using oak tree extract and aloe vera to form a natural barrier that spiders cannot stand, but doesn't kill them or impact our environment. This effective spider repellent is suitable for use outside of doors, vents, windows and any other openings in houses, tents, caravans and garages. Be careful to avoid spraying soft furnishings and always test in an inconspicuous area first to check for damage.
Spider Spray by SpiderSpray
The Spider Spray for Basement by SpiderSpray is a peppermint oil based spray that is non-toxic and biodegradable. Offering four-hour indoor and outdoor riding, this small reusable bottle can be taken anywhere and delivers over 400 sprays. This makes it a great low cost and naturally pleasant smelling option for those wanting ongoing spider control.
DIY Spider Spray Recipes
For those who prefer natural and cost-effective solutions, making their own best spider spray for house is simple and can be quite effective. These DIY sprays use common household ingredients and essential oils to repel or control spiders safely.
Peppermint Oil Spray
Peppermint oil is a great natural spider repellent, as spiders despise the strong smell. This homemade spray is simple to throw together and safe to use around kids and pets.
How to Make:
- Mix 1 cup of water with 10-15 drops of peppermint essential oil.
- Add 1 teaspoon of liquid dish soap (this helps the oil mix with water better).
How to Use:
- Strain into a spray bottle and shake well.
- Actually spray them on door frames, window, baseboards, corners and any other spots where spiders may enter or weave webs.
- Best for: Reapply every two to three days or after cleaning.
Vinegar-Based Spray
White vinegar is acetic acid, and spiders don’t like that. This spray is inexpensive and easy to make.
How to Make:
- Combine equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle (for example, 1 cup vinegar and 1 cup water).
How to Use:
- Shake well before use.
- Spray into cracks, crevices and corners so spiders can’t crawl out.
- Do not spray on natural stone or other delicate surfaces; vinegar can harm them.
- Reapply as often as needed, particularly after washing or rain when used outdoors.
Murphy Oil Soap Solution
Murphy Oil Soap is a gentle cleaning product that can also be used as a natural spider killer spray safe for pets. It works by suffocating spiders and disrupting their ability to stick to surfaces.
How to Make:
- To dilute Murphy Oil Soap, combine 2 tablespoons of the soap with 1 quart (4 cups) of water.
How to Use:
- Spray directly on spiders that people see, as well as on webs or spider-prone locations.
- Repeat every 4-7 days to prevent spiders.
- Most of the surfaces can be treated with this spray, and it is a safe option because this cleaner is also safe around children and pets, but user should avoid soaked fabrics or wood.
DIY spider sprays are perfectly safe and natural method to decrease spider activity and easy to make at home without any dangerous chemical ingredients great for daily use around the home, lawn and garden.
Application Tips for Maximum Effectiveness
There are a few tricks to applying spider sprays effectively so users can get the best results. Correct applications can help reduce the population of spiders and keep the home and yard free of spiders.
1. Identify and Target Spider Hotspots
Some spiders will congregate where they can find protection and food. Common hotspots include:
- Basements and crawl spaces
- Attics and storage rooms
- Garages and workshops
- Outdoor sheds and garden structures
Apply sprays to these locations, concentrating on corners, under baseboards, behind furniture and around window and door frames. Treat any indoor and outdoor locations where spiders are known to build webs or hide during the day.
2. Seal Cracks and Crevices
Spiders can come in homes from under entry doors, through openings around windows, foundation walls and from vents.
- Check the exterior and interior of the home for holes.
- These openings can be sealed with caulk or weather stripping.
Sealing gaps reduces the number of spiders coming inside and makes sprays more effective by limiting where spiders can hide.
3. Maintain Cleanliness
Spiders hunt insects, so keeping the home clean reduces their food source and helps control their population.
- Clean and vacuum often, and especially in corners and underneath furniture.
- Take down spider webs and egg sacs immediately.
- Clear out hiding spots for spiders, like storage rooms, basements.
- Leave any outdoor lights off, or use yellow “bug” lights that are less attractive to insects and spiders.
4. Use Sprays Consistently and Follow Instructions
Whether using natural or chemical sprays, applying them correctly is key:
- Read the label carefully and follow all safety guidelines.
- Shake sprays well before use to mix ingredients evenly.
- Spray evenly on targeted areas, including corners, baseboards, window sills, and door frames.
- Reapply as per the directions, which typically is every few days for natural deterrents and as needed for chemical ones.
- Don’t overdo it with sprays in one space; use the recommended amount to ensure safety and effectiveness.
FAQs
How to get rid of spiders with spray?
Spray directly on spiders and in areas where they hide, such as corners and baseboards. Repeat treatments at frequent intervals, all along in basements, garages and attics. For best results, integrate spraying with cleaning and sealing entry points.
What is the effective spider repellent that actually works?
Peppermint oil sprays are well-documented natural repellents. Chemical barrier treatments with man-made insecticides are also effective for control over long periods. Applying it regularly will keep spiders on the run.
What can I use to stop spiders from coming into my house?
Use caulk to seal openings and crevices around doors, windows and foundations so that these pests cannot get inside. To deter flies, place natural sprays like peppermint oil or chemical barrier sprays near entry points. Keeping the home clean and reducing insect prey helps prevent spider visits.
The Bottom Line
The right spider spray makes all the difference when it comes to keep the pests away and creating a safer, more comfortable home. Natural sprays are mild and safe for families that have kids and pets. Chemical sprays kill quickly and continue working to control and good for heavier spider problems or to apply on exteriors.
Growcycle has some very effective natural and chemical sprays if you need some well known spider spray products. Their products are designed to be safe, easy, and effective in keeping the home, garage, basement, and garden free of spiders; which is why they make it the perfect place for finding a spider control solution that's right for you.
Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for legal, medical, financial, or any other form of professional advice.
About the Author
Victor Miller 
Environmental Journalist Focused on Sustainable Agriculture
Victor Miller is an environmental journalist at Growcycle, specializing in sustainable agriculture. With a passion for storytelling, he highlights the latest trends, innovations, and practices that promote ecological balance and responsible farming.