Pest & Vermin Control · 5 min read · Beginner

Spiders in the House: Prevention & Practical Control

Reduce nuisance spiders indoors by limiting insects, clearing webs, sealing gaps and using simple non-chemical methods where possible.

Key points & steps

Remember that most UK house spiders are harmless and often enter homes while following prey or seeking shelter.
Vacuum or brush away old webs and egg sacs in corners, behind furniture, around windows and in low-disturbance areas.
Reduce the insects spiders feed on by improving food hygiene, dealing with flies and avoiding unnecessary exterior lighting directly beside open windows.
Check gaps around window frames, doors, service penetrations and poorly fitting vents, sealing only where doing so will not interfere with ventilation.
Use a catch-and-release spider catcher or container where you simply want to remove an individual spider without killing it.
If spider numbers suddenly increase, investigate whether another insect problem is providing an unusually large food source.

Avoid spraying insecticide around a room simply because one spider has appeared; removal and prevention are usually enough.
Keep lofts, sheds and garages tidy enough that webs and activity can be spotted easily.
Do not handle an unfamiliar spider if you are concerned about identification; contain it safely or seek advice.