Rattlesnakes, scorpions, and tarantulas are all nasty members of the arachnid family, but none are quite as frightening as black widow spiders. These eight-legged invaders can be found in homes across the US, and they pose a real risk to your health.
Black widows can produce severe symptoms but is rarely fatal except in young children, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems. Latrodectus Hesperus or black widow spiders are very common in Arizona where the temperatures are generally warmer.
To get rid of these venomous spiders, we’ve gathered some easy and natural methods and other tips to help you control the spiders around your home.
What Do Black Widow Spiders Look Like?
Black widow spiders are easily identifiable due to their distinctive color patterns. The female black widow spiders are shiny black in color with a red-orange hourglass pattern on their abdomen, which serves as a warning sign to predators. Female black widow spider is the most venomous and the ones to watch out for.
On the other hand, male black widow spiders are brown in color with small red spots. They are significantly less dangerous, but their presence often signifies female spiders nearby. Recognizing these characteristics is crucial for effective black widow spider control.
A black widow spider bite can cause severe pain and muscle cramping, necessitating immediate medical attention. These spiders build irregular, tangled black widow spider webs, often in dark, undisturbed areas around your home. Regular inspection and cleaning of these areas can be key in controlling their population.
Ways on How to Get Rid of Black Widow Spiders Naturally
Strong Scents
Black widow spiders, both males and females, have shown an aversion to potent fragrances, specifically those of lemon, tea tree oil, eucalyptus, and peppermint. These scents act as natural spider repellents, dissuading black widows from occupying and returning to sprayed locations.
This can be a useful strategy to prevent black widow spider bites. A homemade spray, concocted from these natural ingredients, can be employed and distributed in spider-infested regions of your house.
Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth, a sedimentary rock that occurs naturally, can serve as an effective physical means to manage black widow spiders. This substance functions by slicing through the spider’s exoskeleton, leading to dehydration and eventual death of the spider.
This is particularly effective against female black widow spiders, known for their more potent venom. Scatter this remedial material around suspected spider hideouts and places of spider activity.
Setting Spider Traps
An additional all-natural method to keep black widows, particularly male black widows, in check involves the use of spider traps. These traps, fabricated from adhesive cardboard, can be situated in areas where spider presence has been detected.
The spiders, attracted by the scent of the lure, become ensnared on the gluey surface, thus effectively curtailing their proliferation.
How to Get Rid of Black Widows Without Killing Them
As much as we want to get rid of black widows, we don’t necessarily have to resort to killing them. They have a special place in the world and often, killing them isn’t necessary. They are the natural enemies of flies and mosquitoes and thus help to control the populations of these pests.
If you want to get rid of it without killing black widow spiders, then here are some tips that might help.
Vacuum Regularly
One of the most effective ways to get rid of black widows is by vacuuming regularly. Vacuums can suck up dust, dirt, and other debris, including black widow spiders. It’s important to clean the entire home thoroughly to reduce spider presence within your house. Make sure you get into all of the nooks and crannies as black widow spiders like to hide in dark and damp places.
Clean Dark and Damp Spaces
Black widow spiders inhabit damp, dark places in your home. To get rid of them, make sure to clean out these areas regularly. This could include closets, basements, garages, attics, and other areas that are often undisturbed. Make sure to mop the floors and dust off spider webs so they don’t have any places to hide.
Seal Cracks and Crevices
Lastly, sealing cracks and crevices in your home is an effective way to prevent black widow spiders from moving in. These spiders often use small gaps in walls, floors, and around windows and doors to enter homes. By sealing these potential entry points, you can make your home less inviting to black widow spiders and other pests.
What Kills Black Widows Instantly?
If left with no choice but to deal with black widow spiders with one quick and effective solution, then the best answer would be insecticides. Insecticides are chemicals that can kill pests such as spiders, ants, flies, and beetles instantly.
Look for pesticides that have an active ingredient of pyrethroid, permethrin, or carbaryl as these are the best insecticides against spiders. Make sure to follow the directions on the label and use protective equipment such as gloves and masks when you’re spraying them.
Another thing you can do is to make a vinegar solution with equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. This natural mixture is effective against black widow spiders and other pests. Spray it on areas where you suspect the spiders are hiding, paying special attention to cracks, crevices, windowsills, and door frames. The acid from the solution will kill black widows instantly.
**If you have pets or kids in the house, it’s best to consult with a professional pest control company that can safely and effectively deal with black widow spiders.
Can You Use Essential Oils as a Black Widow Repellent?
Yes, essential oils can be used as a black widow spider repellent. As mentioned above, using certain essential oils such as lemon, tea tree oil, eucalyptus, and peppermint can help to deter black widow spiders. You can mix these essential oils with water and spray them in areas where the spiders have been seen.
**It’s also important to note that essential oils shouldn’t be used on the skin as they can cause an allergic reaction.
Key Takeaways
In conclusion, dealing with black widow spiders, particularly relentless female black widows, requires keen attention to their habits, like the presence of their egg sacs and webs. Vigilance and regular maintenance can prevent black widow bites, thus safeguarding the health of your household.
If you’re located in Chandler or other surrounding areas and facing a black widow infestation, don’t hesitate to contact Arizona Termite & Pest Solutions.
As pest control professionals, we offer effective and speedy solutions to rid your home of these venomous creatures. Your safety and comfort are our priority, so reach out to us today for a pest-free tomorrow.
