While most spiders are harmless and even helpful in controlling other pests, that doesn’t mean you want them hanging out in your living room.
If you’ve been noticing more eight-legged guests than usual, your home might be inviting them in—without you even realizing it.
Here are 7 common things that attract spiders to your home and how to keep them out:
1. Insects – A spider’s favorite meal
Spiders don’t come for you—they come for food. If your home has a lot of other insects like flies, ants, or mosquitoes, you’re basically setting up a spider buffet. Reducing these pests can significantly cut down on spider traffic.
Keep trash bins sealed, clean up crumbs, and use screens to keep flying insects out.
2. Clutter and dark, undisturbed areas
Spiders thrive in places where they won’t be disturbed. That means storage boxes, piles of clothes, or old furniture in basements, closets, and garages are perfect hiding spots.
Declutter regularly and vacuum those forgotten corners.
3. Cracks, gaps, and openings
Tiny cracks in windows, doors, or foundations are like welcome mats for spiders. They’re experts at squeezing through the smallest spaces.
Seal cracks, install weather stripping, and check window screens for holes.
4. Warmth and shelter (Especially in fall/winter)
When temperatures drop, spiders look for a warm place to nest. Your home becomes a cozy haven during colder months.
Be especially diligent with pest-proofing in the fall. Check entry points and limit indoor humidity.
5. Lights (Indirectly)
Spiders aren’t drawn to light—but the bugs they eat are. Outdoor lighting can attract moths and other flying insects, which in turn brings spiders closer to your doors and windows.
Use yellow or sodium vapor lights outdoors, which are less attractive to insects.
6. Indoor plants
While plants add life and beauty to your home, they can also be a sneaky spider haven. Moist soil and sheltering leaves make the perfect spot for spiders to hide or spin small webs.
Inspect and clean your plants regularly, and avoid overwatering.
7. Moisture and humidity
Spiders love damp areas—especially species like cellar spiders. Bathrooms, basements, laundry rooms, and under-sink cabinets are common hotspots.
Use dehumidifiers in humid spaces and fix leaky pipes quickly.
Spiders are usually more helpful than harmful, but if you’re not a fan of surprise web encounters, a little prevention goes a long way. By reducing their food source and making your home less spider-friendly, you can keep your space more comfortable—and less creepy.